Tina Knowles Receives Recognition at Pledge Gala

The Fifteen Percent Pledge Gala took place Feb. 7 at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles, celebrating Black excellence and community while supporting Black-owned businesses. The annual event honored businesswoman and designer Tina Knowles, mother of Beyoncé and Solange Knowles.

The Fifteen Percent Pledge

Founded in 2020 by fashion designer, activist, and entrepreneur Aurora James, the Fifteen Percent Pledge is a nonprofit initiative that urges major retailers to dedicate 15% of their shelf space to Black-owned brands. The annual gala is a star-studded gathering dedicated to advancing economic equity and amplifying Black-owned businesses.

Aurora James stated, “I was thinking about what does it mean for major corporations to actually support the Black community while doing good business at the same time. And I thought Black people are over 15% of the population. Major retailers should commit 15% of their jobs to Black-owned businesses.”

Attendees

The gala was attended by Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, Kelly Rowland, Olandria Carthen, Chloe Bailey, stylist Law Roach, Kimora Lee Simmons, MC Lyte, and Fifteen Percent Pledge chairwoman Emma Grede, among others.

Kelly Rowland presented the award to Tina Knowles, praising her achievements as a designer, entrepreneur, and cultural icon.

Tina Knowles’ Acceptance Speech

Tina Knowles reflected on her journey and the importance of the honor, stating, “I appreciate this great honor of acknowledging me, but the real joy for me at this event comes from seeing all of us cheering each other on and supporting, networking, sharing resources and looking fabulous as we do so.” She also spoke about the importance of supporting Black entrepreneurs.

In 2025 alone, the Fifteen Percent Pledge organization awarded nearly $1 million in grants, empowering more than 10,000 founders nationwide.

Additional Awards and Initiatives

During the evening, Maed Beauty founder Denise Vasi received an unrestricted $100,000 Sephora Beauty Grant.

Aurora James stated, “We’ve put over a thousand Black-owned brands onto the shelves of major retailers. We’ve shifted billions of dollars of capital to Black entrepreneurs across this country.”

Chairwoman Grede commented, “Tina is a legend, and what I love so much about her is she’s been doing this her entire career, uplifting Black brands, Black people, Black women specifically.”

The gala was accompanied by a two-day block party, held at Paramount studios on Feb. 7 and 8, showcasing Black-owned brands and creators.