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Mary J. Blige Announces "The Purpose Ball" in ATL, Miss Lawrence to Host, Saucy Santana to Perform

Entertainment News

Just in time for International Women's Day, "Queen of Hip-Hop Soul" Mary J. Blige announced her 2nd annual Strength of a Woman Festival. Debuting on May 11, the 9x Grammy award-winning singer-songwriter is a featured headliner alongside Lauryn Hill, with performances from Method Man, Lucky Daye, Summer Walker, Jodeci, Saucy Santana and many others.

Sporting a gold studded black leather Balmain jacket with matching pants, Blige took to the 'Sherri Show' embodying nothing short of empowerment.


"Having the opportunity to continue to uplift, inspire, and build amongst a community of women is the reason why we created this festival", Mary said.
Source: Sherri Show

Partnered with PepsiCo, the festival will provide a slew of workshops including wellness, technology, and financial literacy which will be presented with the intention of further educating and empowering BIPOC women.


Kent Montgomery, Pepsi's Senior VP of Industry Relations and Multicultural Development, amplified the festival's importance in supporting women of color.


“The Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit is a testament to the power of amplifying Black women and their voices – starting with Mary, someone whose vision and presence has been instrumental in its success."


He continued, "As a brand and company rooted in celebrating culture and uplifting communities, we are thrilled to show our support and continue to provide new ways to elevate the festival experience for guests throughout the expanded weekend of activities, all while highlighting and supporting the remarkable women of the Atlanta community."


Aside from musical performances, the four-day summit will also hold a gospel brunch, women's summit, comedy night, and it's closing event, The Purpose Ball. Highlighting Ballroom culture and that of the LGBTQ community, the ball will be produced and presented by actor and social advocate Miss Lawrence and will feature a special performance from rapper Saucy Santana.

"This is truly history in the making," Lawrence exclaimed in an Instagram post. "The Ballroom Culture continues to COME THRU."

Presale tickets will become available at noon EST March 8; general on-sale begins on March 10. For ticket information, visit www.soawfestival.com.




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