Walking the Walk: A Look Into Variety Power of Women New York Honorees 2024
“Variety’s Power of Women franchise is a showcase of the strength exhibited by women in the entertainment community who are driving a dynamic industry forward and using their influence to make the world a better place.” — Michelle Sobrino-Stearns, CEO of Variety
Wondering who’s in the spotlight this year?
Brazilian singer and songwriter Anitta (born Larissa de Macedo Machado) is part of the list. The Rio de Janeiro native has collaborated with major names in the business, including Diplo, Saweetie, and Snoop Dogg. Long-running crime drama series Law & Order: Special Victims Unit star Mariska Hargitay is also being honored. Hargitay established the Joyful Heart Foundation, an organization that fights against sexual and domestic abuse.
Also joining the ranks are Shonda Rhimes, the author and screenwriter of Grey’s Anatomy, its spin-off Private Practice, and other popular television shows. Amy Schumer, the stand-up comedian and actress known for her roles in “Inside Amy Schumer” and her self-deprecating humor on stage is also being commended by Variety.
The annual Power of Women New York event comes as Anitta prepares to release her long-teased album with Republic Records on April 26. Named “Funk Generation,” it promises unique, danceable, and sensual beats.
The winner of four Latin American Music Awards will bring awareness to CUFA (Central Única das Favelas)—a non-governmental organization that represents the interests of people living in the slums (favelas). It strives to empower them with education and social responsibility projects while helping them develop life and professional skills.
The organization has a simple mission: to provide youth with alternatives to crime.
Mariska Hargitay (Olivia Benson on Law & Order: SVU) will amplify the foundation’s mission as the show marks 25 years. Her focus is on transforming how law enforcement and society in general respond to sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse. The nonprofit offers support to the survivors’ healing, treating trauma with innovative approaches, and advancing policies to ensure justice for survivors.
Shonda Rhimes, the showrunner, will highlight the work of the Debbie Allen Dance Academy. This not-for-profit organization is known for more than its comprehensive dance curriculum. It is also committed to enriching, inspiring, and transforming the lives of young people of color through dance, theater training, and performances.
Amy Schumer, who received a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress and thirteen Primetime Emmy Award nominations, will voice her support for Everytown. Through the Gun Safety program, the organization strives to hold the gun industry accountable for gun violence and advocates for gun control alongside nearly 10 million supporters.
The luncheon celebrating their charitable work will be held on May 2. Amber Ruffin, known for hosting the WGA Award-nominated series “The Amber Ruffin Show,” will host.
It will be presented in partnership with Lifetime.
Elaine Frontain Bryant, top programmer for A&E, Lifetime, and LMN, said, “I am always so deeply inspired by women who not only talk the talk but also walk the walk through their commitment to empowering others and standing courageously for change. These Power of Women honorees are such incredible examples of women who use their platforms to make our world a better place.”
The honorees and guests in attendance will be given exclusive gift bags with a range of entertainment, beauty, health, and fashion products from brands like Ouai, Elemis, and Supergoop. The extraordinary stars will also be featured on four separate covers for the April 30 print edition of Variety. Pretty exciting, right?
