Purple Diamonds Scholarship and Awards Gala: Celebrating Excellence and Empowerment

By Dr. Edelia J. Carthan

Belmont Missionary Baptist Church’s Dr. M.K. Nelson Multipurpose Complex was abuzz with excitement on Saturday, June 1, 2024, as it hosted the highly anticipated Purple Diamonds Scholarship and Awards Gala. The event brought together community members, honorees, and distinguished guests to celebrate the achievements of the Purple Diamonds, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering young women through enrichment and performing arts.

A Warm Welcome

The evening commenced with a heartfelt welcome from Shanika Lee, Director of the Purple Diamonds. Her address set the tone for the evening, highlighting the organization’s commitment to fostering leadership, academic excellence, and community service among its members. "Thank you to all my staff, parents, sponsors, board members, and supporters that made the event a success. We're 17 years in and this is only the beginning," Lee said.

Reflecting on the Journey

Jaida Myers, crowned Diamond Miss, spoke on the occasion, sharing the significance of the event and the impact the Purple Diamonds have had on her life and the lives of her peers. Jada Ards followed with a presentation on the history of the organization, tracing its roots and evolution over the years.

Honoring the Team

Recognition of the 2023-24 team members, staff, and board members was a key highlight. Shanika Lee took the stage once again to acknowledge the dedicated individuals whose hard work and passion have propelled the Purple Diamonds forward.

An Evening of Gratitude and Inspiration

Kiersten Friday, a proud Purple Diamond, led the prayer and blessing of the food, setting a reflective and grateful tone for the dinner that followed. Guests enjoyed a delightful meal, catered by the renowned Chef Judi.

The introduction of the guest speaker, Tanise Brown, was met with applause as she paved the way for Mrs. Lateshia Pearson, the honored guest speaker. Mrs. Pearson’s inspiring words resonated deeply with the audience, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, education, and community support.

Celebrating Achievements

Several students received awards during the presentation, marking their exceptional contributions and accomplishments throughout the year. Additionally, four outstanding seniors, Jada Ards, Charity Donald, Camiyah Johnson, and Larajiah Smith, were each honored with a $250 book stipend, recognizing their dedication and academic excellence. Brandee Harrington, Board Member, expressed her enthusiasm, "Congratulations Shanika Kelly Lee and the entire Purple Diamonds Enrichment and Performing Arts Program. An amazing event was had. Excited for all the students and the seniors who received a $250 book stipend."

Looking Ahead

The announcement of the 2024-2025 captains marked a significant step for the organization. The new captains for the Diamond Misses are Emmilee Watts as Captain, with Lauren Green and Londyn Jefferson serving as Co-Captains. For the Purple Diamonds, Tanise Brown was named Captain, with Jakiya Lewis as Co-Captain. Their leadership promises to guide the teams to new heights in the upcoming season.

Acknowledgements and Gratitude

The gala concluded with acknowledgements to those who made the event possible. Carthan Enterprises provided printing and financial services, Chef Judi handled the catering, C Squared managed the decorum, Jazmine Ware captured the event through videography, and DJ Sensei provided the evening’s entertainment.

A Promising Future

The 2024-25 Purple Diamonds Enrichment and Performing Arts Program board members, including Shanika Lee, Leroy Lee, Veronica Hall, Brandee Harrington, and Dr. Marie Abston, were acknowledged for their ongoing commitment to the organization’s mission.

Special Thanks to Sponsors

Sponsors such as Rodney Hall from Penn Global Marketing, Chef Judi, C Squared, Light House Academy, Hamilton Davis Mental Health, Inc., and Carthan Enterprises were recognized for their generous support.

The Purple Diamonds Scholarship and Awards Gala was not just an evening of celebration, but a testament to the power of community, mentorship, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. As the organization looks to the future, it continues to inspire and uplift young women, preparing them to shine brightly in all their endeavors.

About the Purple Diamonds Enrichment and Performing Arts Program

The Purple Diamonds Enrichment and Performing Arts Program is designed to promote education and equity among girls from low socio-economic backgrounds in Jackson, Mississippi, and nearby regions. This comprehensive initiative offers cost-free dance classes in a variety of styles, including Hip Hop, Contemporary, Ballet, Jazz, African, Latin, and Majorette, enriched by educational workshops and mentorship programs. Catering to girls aged 4-18, the program not only imparts dance as an expressive art form but also nurtures essential qualities such as confidence, leadership, and teamwork. A key focus of the program is to encourage and support participants in pursuing and successfully obtaining college degrees, preferably from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)