The “Variety Power of Women” event, held in Los Angeles, showcased the remarkable impact of women in the entertainment industry and beyond. Under the theme “When Women Thrive, the Community Thrives,” the evening celebrated influential figures like Jamie Lee Curtis, Sydney Sweeney, Kate Hudson, Nicole Scherzinger, and Wanda Sykes. These women, honored for their achievements, underscored the importance of empowering women to create positive change in society.
### A Celebration of Influence and Advocacy
Hosted by Iliza Shlesinger at the Beverly Hills Hotel, the event put a spotlight on the achievements of its honorees. Jamie Lee Curtis used her platform to highlight the challenges faced by Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, emphasizing the significant role women play in healthcare. “The power of women is in every single woman who works at that hospital,” Curtis remarked, addressing the critical need for support amidst government funding cuts and the fear of ICE raids.
### Empowerment Through Storytelling
Kate Hudson, introduced by Octavia Spencer, shared her dedication to helping children unlock their potential. “As a mother of three, I feel this every day,” Hudson stated, advocating the use of storytelling to make people feel seen and valued. Her message was clear: the influence of women is realized not just through achievements but by nurturing future generations.
### The Fight for Recognition
Sydney Sweeney, introduced by Sharon Stone, spoke on her role as boxing champ Christy Martin in the upcoming film “Christy.” Sweeney connected deeply with Martin’s story, saying, “I know what it feels like to be underestimated.” Her words resonated with many, highlighting the universal struggle for recognition and the enduring nature of resilience.
### Advocacy and Impact
Olympic gymnast Aly Raisman was honored for her courage in advocating for survivors of abuse. “I’m thinking about those who’ve never been told they matter,” she voiced, bringing attention to the silent struggles faced by many. Meanwhile, Wanda Sykes, introduced by Jane Fonda, addressed the potential expiration of SNAP benefits, reinforcing that “when women thrive, the community thrives.” Her call to action was a reminder of the broader implications of policy changes on vulnerable communities.
### A Legacy of Empowerment
Eva Longoria presented Nicole Scherzinger with her honors, recognizing her work with the Special Olympics. Scherzinger reflected on the athletes’ spirits, emphasizing that “True power is shared and ignites others.” Her vision of using influence to uplift others captured the essence of the event’s theme.
Jamie Lee Curtis closed the event with a profound quote, “To live is to learn. To learn is to know. To know is to grow. To grow is to give. To give is to live.” Her words encapsulated the enduring legacy of the evening, where the thriving of women was celebrated not just as a personal victory, but as a communal triumph.
