Black History Month in Los Angeles continues to move beyond celebration into direct action. The Black History & Lifestyle Awards & Greater Good Foundation brought that approach to life through the “Icons in the Making” community impact event to kick off NAACP Image Awards Week, designed to support underserved youth and families with real resources and meaningful engagement.
Held February 22 at The Hideout Salon, the activation centered on empowerment, access, and care.
The experience focused on meeting young people where they are right now, already in school, already navigating daily realities, and deserving of visible support from their community.
Icons In The Making Centers Youth And Families
The “Icons in the Making” community impact event transformed a neighborhood space into a hub for service, culture, and connection. Families entered an environment built around dignity and support rather than ceremony.
Children received free haircuts, hairstyling services, sneakers, backpacks, essential items, and meals.
These services addressed everyday needs while reinforcing confidence and self-worth. The event created space for youth to feel seen and supported in real time.
Organizers intentionally focused on the present. The goal was to provide resources that families could use immediately.
Meagan Good Supports Community-Focused Programming
Actress Meagan Good supported the activation through her Greater Good Foundation, helping align the event with a mission centered on youth empowerment and access.
Her involvement reflected a commitment to community-based work that prioritizes people over publicity.
She engaged directly with families and youth throughout the day. Her presence reinforced the message that leadership includes showing up, listening, and giving back.
The partnership between the Black History & Lifestyle Awards and the Greater Good Foundation highlighted how entertainment and philanthropy can work together to serve communities.
Yo-Yo Represents Legacy And Leadership
One of the most meaningful presences at the event came from rap legend Yo-Yo. The Compton native, known for breaking barriers in hip-hop and representing strength and independence in the culture, showed up to lend her voice and visibility to the youth.
Her presence carried weight. For many in attendance, Yo-Yo represents an era of hip-hop that stood firmly on empowerment and authenticity. Seeing her engaged with families and supporting a youth-centered initiative reinforced the importance of legacy giving back.
Yo-Yo’s participation underscored a powerful message: cultural pioneers do not separate success from responsibility. They remain connected to the communities that shaped them.
Community Leaders Showed Up To Participate
The event drew participation from voices across culture and community.
Comedian Seyi Brown, Rapper HoodTrophy Bino, Coline Witt of “Eating While Broke,” Black Cannabis Magazine editor Hazey Taughtme, Tai Savet of VH1’s Love & Listings and LA County Sheriff candidate Andre White connected with families and youth in attendance.
Each presence added value to the day. Leaders engaged directly rather than simply appearing. Conversations, encouragement, and visibility shaped the atmosphere.
The activation felt collaborative and intentional. Everyone present contributed to the experience.
Direct Support Made Immediate Impact
The day centered on practical support. Families had access to meals and refreshments throughout the activation, removing barriers to participation.
Offerings included Randy’s donuts, hot chicken sandwiches, curry goat and jollof rice, and Boxed Water.
Grooming services helped children feel confident and cared for. Small details created meaningful outcomes for families navigating everyday pressures.
Support remained accessible, respectful, and community-driven.
Tangible Giving Reinforced The Mission
One of the strongest moments came through direct distribution.
HoodTrophy Bino personally handed out 40 bookbags and 40 pairs of new Nike and Vans sneakers he purchased from WSS & Foot Locker.
The giveaway supported students currently in school, easing financial pressure on families while giving youth items they could use immediately.
This effort reflected the event’s broader mission. Inspiration matters, but tangible resources create real change.
The Vision Behind Black History & Lifestyle
Black History and Lifestyle (BHLA) operates as a global professional network and think tank focused on economic empowerment and cultural celebration across the Black diaspora. Founded in 2022 by Eziada Folashade Balogun and Walter Njboke, the organization has grown beyond its annual awards into a platform for business growth and youth development.
BHLA works at the intersection of culture and commerce. Its mission focuses on expanding access to global markets for Black-owned businesses, supporting entrepreneurs and creatives, and advocating for inclusive trade policies that reduce barriers to international growth.
That mission shaped the direction of “Icons in the Making.” The activation reflected a broader strategy rooted in community investment, youth empowerment, and long-term economic visibility.
Partnerships Powered The Experience
Sponsors helped bring the activation together through resources and support. Randy’s Donuts, True Religion, BET, Boxed Water, Cazu Chocs, Milky Way Brands, HoodTrophy Bino, Pop N Flavors, Richie’s Hot Chicken, New Jump City, and Fire Photo Booth contributed throughout the day.
These partnerships demonstrated how brands can align with community priorities when involvement centers on service.
Collaboration strengthened the event’s reach and impact.
Black History Month As Action
The activation reflected a shift in how Black History Month is observed. Communities are prioritizing programs that deliver real value while celebrating culture and legacy.
Events like “Icons in the Making” center youth, strengthen families, and create space for leadership through action. They show how service can exist alongside celebration.
The February activation reinforced a simple idea. When community shows up for its youth, the impact is immediate and lasting.
