“The Phenomenal Woman Awards Gala” is a special event that acknowledges the aspirations and achievements of African American women, a precursor to “The Black Women’s Expo”. This annual celebration pays homage to outstanding African American women, with the "Phenomenal Woman Award“, named in honor of one of the most renowned and influential voices of our time, celebrated poet, educator and civil rights activist, Maya Angelou. This coveted award recognizes extraordinary women for their excellence and their commitment to community service both locally and nationally. It is one of the social events of the year and a must-attend for Chicago's luminaries and the corporate sponsors of “The Black Women’s Expo”!

The “Phenomenal Woman Award” has been presented to nearly 200 outstanding African American women in Chicago over the past 17 years, and our national award recipients have included such icons as Oprah Winfrey, Star Jones, Iman, Michelle Obama, Maya Angelou, Congresswoman Maxine Waters, Albertina Walker, Desiree Rogers, Dr. Julianne Malveaux, Susan Taylor, Cicely Tyson, Linda Johnson Rice and Winnie Mandela.

This year’s awards ceremony will be held in Chicago on Friday, August 5th at the Chicago Hilton & Towers Hotel before an illustrious gathering of professional African American women.