Olympic champion Allyson Felix was among the celebrated guests at the LadyLike Foundation’s 16th Annual Women of Excellence Awards Luncheon and youth fashion show, which took place Saturday at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. Felix, a five-time Olympian and founder of the women’s footwear brand Saysh, was one of four honorees recognized at the high-profile event, which drew celebrities, business leaders, and community advocates to spotlight outstanding women in business, sports, and service.
The awards luncheon coincided with a major milestone for the LadyLike Foundation: the grand opening of its new headquarters at 4715 Crenshaw Boulevard. The facility marks a significant expansion for the Los Angeles-based nonprofit, which has mentored girls from under-resourced communities since its founding in 2007. The new headquarters will serve as a base for mentorship, educational programs, and arts initiatives for girls ages 12 to 18, with a special focus on South Los Angeles neighborhoods where access to such resources remains limited.
Alongside Felix, the foundation honored Constance Schwartz-Morini, co-founder and CEO of the talent management and production firm SMAC; Monique Rodriguez, founder and CEO of Mielle Organics, a leading haircare brand; and Patricia Weston, a local community advocate and philanthropist. The foundation said the awards are intended to highlight women who have made significant contributions to their fields and to the community at large.
A highlight of the luncheon was the LadyLike Foundation’s youth fashion show, which featured children and teens—including those of public figures—modeling on the runway. The show, a staple of the annual event, aims to promote self-expression and confidence among young participants. In previous years, it has included the children of Los Angeles-area celebrities and community leaders.
The event began with a red carpet and reception, followed by lunch and the awards program in the Beverly Hilton’s International Ballroom. Attendees from the entertainment, sports, and nonprofit sectors were present, underscoring the foundation’s growing influence in the city.
Founded as a faith-based nonprofit, the LadyLike Foundation views the opening of its Crenshaw headquarters as a way to deepen its outreach and programming in Los Angeles. The organization is part of a broader movement to expand services for girls in South Los Angeles, a region where youth development programs have historically faced funding and infrastructure challenges.
