LOS ANGELES, Nov 7 — Actress-producer Tracee Ellis Ross delivered a stirring message about womanhood and purpose as she was named Pathbreaker of the Year at the 2025 Ebony Power 100 gala in Los Angeles.
“You do not have to push out a baby to help push humanity forward,” Ross said during her acceptance speech, challenging long-held ideas about fulfilment and legacy for women.
The Hollywood Reporter reported that the annual event, hosted by Ebony Media Group, marked the publication’s 80th anniversary of championing Black excellence across culture, business, entertainment and philanthropy.
Sharing the spotlight was singer-actor-choreographer Teyana Taylor, who was honoured as Entertainer of the Year for her multi-hyphenate career spanning music, film and choreography.
The report further stated that Ross’ recognition came not only for her acting career but also for her leadership in shaping conversations around beauty, identity and representation through her hair-care brand and advocacy work.
Taylor’s award underscored her evolution from teen recording artist to a creative force behind and in front of the camera — earning acclaim for her acting roles and directorial projects.
The star-studded gala, held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, also celebrated basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal, supermodel Iman, museum director Lonnie G. Bunch III, and activist-influencer Olandria Carthen.
As Ebony celebrated eight decades of uplifting Black voices, Ross’ words struck a chord — reminding audiences that legacy is not limited to motherhood but defined by how one uplifts others.
