Variety held its annual Power of Women event in Beverly Hills, honouring four prominent female entertainers and executives: Jennifer Hudson, Pearlena Igbokwe, Melissa McCarthy and Sharon Stone. Rather than focusing solely on their personal achievements, each honouree redirected attention to the charities they support, emphasising that power should be used to effect positive change. The event, which also highlighted women leaders in the entertainment industry through Variety's annual Women's Impact Report, reinforced the theme that meaningful accomplishment requires collective support rather than individual effort alone.

Pearlena Igbokwe, chairman of Universal Studios Group with over 35 years in television, spoke about the nonprofit A Better Chance, crediting it with providing mentorship and resources that enabled her Ivy League education. Paige DeSorbo received a Courage Award from the Purina Purple Leash Project for speaking publicly about surviving teenage abuse, whilst Jennifer Hudson's talk show received a Changemaker Award from Waymo. Hudson delivered remarks on reframing power as a positive force in women's hands, capable of opening doors, creating platforms and protecting others.