More than a Festival: How ESSENCE Became America's Family Reunion by Jasmine Tiffany
Every July, New Orleans becomes the cultural heartbeat of Black America. It becomes a homecoming. A reunion. A sacred space where Black culture isn’t just celebrated; it’s centered, protected, and amplified in ways that feel both deeply personal and profoundly collective.
And that’s the true purpose of ESSENCE Festival. Yes, there are chart-topping performances and unforgettable celebrity moments. But at its core, ESSENCE is about something far greater: creating a space where Black voices are heard, Black stories are honored, and Black futures are imagined without limitation.
Empowering Purpose Through Leadership, Faith, and Transformation
By Carol Mangum
Some conversations do more than inspire. They ignite possibility, strengthen purpose, and remind us that leadership is most impactful when it is rooted in authenticity and faith.
Carol Mangum recently had the privilege of moderating the Faith and Entrepreneurship panel during the Glambitious All White Brunch at the Essence Festival of Culture in New Orleans. Hosted by visionary entrepreneur Lillie Mae, founder of the Glambitious Brand, the event brought together five accomplished women entrepreneurs who shared powerful perspectives on building businesses with courage, resilience, and unwavering faith.
Together, the panel explored the realities of entrepreneurship, from making difficult decisions and developing intentional daily habits to overcoming challenges, embracing uncertainty, and trusting God's direction throughout every season. While each woman shared her own unique journey, one message resonated throughout the conversation: True success is built on purpose, perseverance, and faith.
Serving as moderator allowed Mangum to do what she is most passionate about: creating space for authentic conversations that empower people to think differently, lead intentionally, and leave transformed. She also had the opportunity to share her own entrepreneurial journey, reflecting on how faith has remained her foundation through career transitions, leadership opportunities, and the continued growth of Empower 3sixty by CM.
That experience reflects the very heart of Empower 3sixty by CM.
Empower 3sixty was created to help individuals, leaders, and organizations move beyond potential and into purposeful action. Through executive coaching, leadership development, strategic consulting, and designing transformational experiences, we help people strengthen their leadership, align with their purpose, and create meaningful, lasting impact. Whether in a boardroom, on a conference stage, or within the communities we serve, our mission remains the same: to empower growth, drive change, and achieve excellence.
This year has provided incredible opportunities to live that mission in action. In addition to moderating at Essence Festival, Empower 3sixty has partnered on transformational experiences including serving as site coordinator and host for the Atlanta stops of Dr. Zeb Talley III's Self Awareness Tour, leading volunteer teams, coordinating event execution, and creating memorable audience experiences. Most recently, Mangum also served as Production Manager for the 2026 Legends Ball and continues to serve as Chief of Staff for Gagnant Media, helping bring impactful community initiatives to life.
“I am deeply grateful to Lillie Mae and the entire Glambitious Brand for creating a platform that celebrates women, amplifies purpose-driven leadership, and fosters meaningful dialogue that extends far beyond the stage. It was an honor to guide a conversation that encouraged entrepreneurs to lead boldly, build faithfully, and pursue success without compromising their values,” she says. “Because every transformation begins with one decision: the decision to believe that where you are today does not have to define where you are capable of going tomorrow.”
For those ready to elevate, evolve, and lead at the next level, connect with Carol Mangum of Empower 3sixty by CM at www.carolmangum.com.
It begins in the streets, where the Mardi Gras Indians’ procession moves with pride and purpose. Generations of tradition come alive, and it’s a reminder that culture isn’t something you consume. It’s something you inherit, nurture, and pass on.
Inside the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, that purpose deepens. The energy shifts from celebration to conversation, from performance to empowerment. Panels aren’t just discussions; they’re moments of truth. Mara Brock Akil and Sherri Shepherd speak candidly about ownership and identity, while Tayari Jones explores the emotional layers of family and belonging.
When Michelle Obama and Keke Palmer take the stage, the room doesn’t just listen, it leans in. Their dialogue felt intimate, like a conversation shared among generations, rooted in resilience, purpose, and possibility. Nearby, Dr. Bernice A. King and Dr. Ilyasah Shabazz remind attendees that legacy isn’t something we wait for; it’s something we actively build.
Then there’s the Marketplace, where purpose meets power. Black-owned businesses line the aisles, each brand representing its products and vision. From beauty empires to handcrafted heirlooms like Kim Alexis Newton’s quilts, every booth tells a story of perseverance, creativity, and community investment.
In the evening, the celebration continues inside the Caesars Superdome. With Latto, Kehlani, Cardi B, and more igniting the crowd with energy, Brandy and Monica delivered a nostalgic, soul-stirring performance that brings generations together in song. It’s joy, memory, and connection all wrapped into one unforgettable experience.
But what makes ESSENCE Festival truly captivating isn’t just what happens on stage; it’s what happens within you. The conversations that spark new ideas. The sense of belonging that stays long after the weekend ends. ESSENCE Festival isn’t just an event; it’s a movement. A living, breathing reflection of Black culture in all its brilliance, complexity, and beauty.
And once you experience it, you don’t just attend. You return.