Atlanta’s The Bank was abuzz on May 14, 2023, as fashion, beauty, and entertainment communities came together to honor the essence of Ballroom culture at the inaugural Purpose Ball. The event marked the closing of the second annual Strength of a Woman festival held during Mother’s Day weekend. Hosted by Mary J. Blige, Pepsi, and Live Nation Urban, the Purpose Ball aimed to recognize the profound influence of the LGBTQIA+ community on popular culture while shedding light on healthcare disparities faced by Black and LGBTQIA+ individuals. The event was brought to life by actor and social advocate Miss Lawrence, a renowned figure from the iconic International House of Balenciaga.
The atmosphere at the Purpose Ball was further electrified by the presence of commentator Dashaun Wesley and esteemed guest judges, including Mary J. Blige herself, fashion stylist Law Roach, actresses Raven Goodwin, Gail Bean, Brandee Evans, and Yashua Simmons. This star-studded lineup thrilled the crowd throughout the night. Attendees were treated to captivating performances and voguing displays, representative of the daring drag and voguing styles synonymous with the underground ballroom culture. Saucy Santana, an emerging force in the music industry, delighted the audience with performances of “Material Girl,” “Walk,” and his latest single, “Family.”
The event featured icons, legends, and rising stars from illustrious houses, such as the House of Balenciaga, House of Garçon, House of Margiela, and House of Mugler, competing for over $60,000 in cash prizes across various categories, including fashion, face, and realness. Ultimately, Simone Tisci from the Haus of Tisci was crowned the Fem Face Queen for her exceptional beauty, elegance, and poise on the runway. She received the grand prize of $20,000, a fitting tribute to her remarkable performance.
The Purpose Ball was not only a celebration of Ballroom culture but also served as a platform to address important societal issues. It provided an opportunity to bridge gaps and raise awareness about access and equity in healthcare for marginalized communities, particularly Black and LGBTQIA+ individuals. The event was sponsored by Gilead Sciences, further emphasizing the commitment to fostering positive change and inclusivity.
The Purpose Ball was just one facet of the larger Strength of A Woman Festival and Summit, which strives to empower and uplift women worldwide, enabling them to reach their fullest potential. The festival’s mission centers around creating an authentic environment that unites women of all generations, promoting community, opportunity, and sisterhood. By focusing on the collective strength of women, the festival aims to inspire and drive positive transformations on a global scale.
The inaugural Purpose Ball brought together diverse communities and showcased the rich artistry and creativity within Ballroom culture. As the night unfolded, it became a testament to the power of inclusivity and the impact that collective celebration can have in fostering a more equitable society.