ESSENCE is proud to return with the 6th annual ESSENCE Hollywood House: To Altadena With Love, a premier gathering dedicated to amplifying Black creatives in the film and television industries, set to take place on Friday, February 28, 2025, at City Market Social House in Los Angeles. This year’s event, themed, ‘Scene and Unseen,’ and hosted by Scott Evans, will spotlight the power of representation, both on-screen and behind the scenes of the entertainment industry, while fostering community engagement and industry innovation.
A platform for impact, inspiration and industry evolution, this event has long been a beacon for emerging and established Black talent, providing unparalleled space for networking, learning and community. ESSENCE Hollywood House: To Altadena With Love will feature thought-provoking panel discussions, exclusive screenings, and immersive experiences that highlight the triumphs and challenges of Black creatives in entertainment.
Bridging the pillars of entertainment and community, this year’s event reinforces ESSENCE’s commitment to social impact by uplifting the communities affected by the California Wildfires. In addition to the efforts of Win With Black Women and GoFundMe, the event will amplify Our Own, a key initiative supporting recovery efforts in Altadena and Pasadena. QR codes will be placed throughout the venue, aimed at bolstering the fundraising campaign.
The venue will also serve as host to the Altadena-Pasadena Legacy Installation, presented by AT&T Dream In Black – a tribute to the history, resilience, and progress of these communities. Designed as an immersive experience, it features large-scale imagery, interactive storytelling, and digital engagement tools. Visitors can explore historical timelines, contribute personal reflections, and support rebuilding efforts through a dedicated fundraising initiative.
Showcasing a commitment to uplifting and supporting Black creators and communities, ESSENCE remains steadfast in its mission to support and amplify Black voices across all areas of entertainment. ESSENCE Hollywood House: To Altadena With Love is designed to equip attendees with valuable tools, resources, and connections that will help them navigate the industry while fostering a strong sense of belonging and empowerment. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from some of the industry’s most influential figures including renowned actors, directors, writers, producers and cultural change makers through panels including:
- Lights, Camera, Content: The Future of Storytelling – A deep dive into how digital creators are reshaping Hollywood, transitioning from social media influencers to major industry players with Andrea Okeke and KevOnStage.
- Warner Bros. Television Group Presents: All American – Tackling Authentic Black Stories – An exclusive conversation offering a sneak peek of what’s next for the show’s beloved OG and next generation of characters, providing behind-the-scenes insights into the show’s cultural relevance, character evolution, and themes that continue to resonate with fans featuring Nkechi Okoro Carroll, Michael Evans Behling, Greta Onieogou, Bre-Z, and Alexis Chikaeze.
- Let’s Talk About LA: Preserving Our City presented by AT&T Dream in Black – An exploration of how community-driven networks fuel artistic and economic opportunity, the role of Black entrepreneurship in preserving cultural legacies, and the challenges of protecting these spaces amid gentrification and displacement with D Smoke.
- Costume & Culture: The Art of Styling Black Stories – A conversation exploring how costume design work shapes the visual language of film and theater with award-winning Sinners costume designer Ruth E. Carter and Sinners star Wunmi Mosaku.
- No Small Parts: Elevating Every Audition – A look into the art of the cold read, providing actors with the tools to approach any audition with confidence, preparation, and authenticity with Raamla Mohamed.
Guests are invited to join ESSENCE on Friday, February 28, 2025.