Essence Festival returns with incredible entertainment and food, amazing brand pop-ups, and an opportunity to celebrate and experience Black joy in New Orleans. The weekend is filled with events including The Science of a Woman brunch hosted by Ayris Scales of Walker's Legacy. The celebratory brunch, complete with a panel discussion moderated by Adjoa B. Asamoah, will be held Saturday, July 2 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Science of a Woman (inspired by the festival's "The Strength of a Woman" theme) recognizes the booming Black businesses in the beauty and wellness industries while also diving further into the contributions of Black Women in S.T.E.M. fields through powerful conversations. "The versatility of Black hair and beauty has not only created a lucrative and quickly growing market for products and services, it has created a unique opportunity to highlight the work women are doing in S.T.E.M. and advocacy. From product development, to multimedia and the ever growing focus on self-care and mental wellness women in these S.T.E.M. roles and related fields are at the foundation of this industry."
The panel discussion will feature notable beauty business founders and cosmetic chemists making the formulas for these products. Brunch attendees will also have the opportunity to be their own chemist in the Legacy Lab.
Walker’s Legacy is a global platform for the professional and entrepreneurial multicultural woman. Ayris Scales, CEO of Walker's Legacy Foundation and Managing Director of Walker's Legacy, is a tri-sector executive who has raised more than $50M and administered more than $200M in funding. Walker's Legacy aims to ensure 10,000 Black women entrepreneurs are bankable and capital ready by 2025.
Ayris Scales
The event is sponsored by the US Black Chambers of Commerce, Comcast NBC Universal, and the U.S. Small Business Administration and will take place at Hilton New Orleans/St. Charles Avenue. Tickets to The Science of a Woman brunch can be purchased online.