By CW, THE FREELANCER
On Saturday, July 19, a wave of pink swept through the Admiral Baker Golf Course as women from across San Diego gathered for the 6th Annual Purple Dress Luncheon, which this year, boldly traded its traditional purple for an All-Pink theme. The event, hosted by S.H.A.D.E.S. (Sisters Honoring Authentic Divas & Empowering Successful Women), offered more than just a splash of color. It delivered a space for empowerment, connection, and truth-telling.
From 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., the room shimmered with energy and elegance. Laughter echoed, hugs lingered, and more than a few tears were shed. At the heart of it all stood Aisha Davis, founder of S.H.A.D.E.S. and this year’s host and keynote speaker.
“I’m a proud Southeast San Diego native, a survivor, a woman of God, and someone who has walked through pain to discover her purpose,” Davis told the crowd. “My journey includes multiple personal setbacks, yet I’m still standing, not hiding behind a mask, but smiling with authenticity.”
Her words were raw and real, the kind that didn’t fade after the applause. Davis spoke not just of her hardships, but of the moment she realized her purpose: creating a space where other women could stop hiding too.
“I started S.H.A.D.E.S. because I knew there were women like me,” she said. “Women who needed a safe, loving, and empowering space to rediscover their strength. Women who weren’t just surviving, but ready to thrive.”
Quoting Jamiee Swift, Davis offered a line that visibly moved many in the room: “It is now, more than ever, that I know that I am truly, surely, thoroughly, soundly, undeniably, definitely, unequivocally, Black, Melanated and unapologetic about who I am, what I am, and what I shall become.”
That unapologetic spirit filled the day, especially during the awards portion of the program. These weren’t just trophies, they were affirmations of resilience, grace, and purpose:
- Queen’s Presence Award: Kia Sykes
- She Inspires Me Award: Shatia Moore
- Quiet Power Award: Sharie Anisso
- Legacy in Motion Award: Tinesia Conwright
- Voice of Impact Awards: Ti-Onna Watson, Brikia Cephus, Mitri Jones and Simone Edwards
- Her Power, Her Purpose Award: Assemblymember Dr. LaShae Sharp-Collins
- Empowerment Me Award: Vincente Mack
By the end of the afternoon, the vibe wasn’t just celebratory, it was healing. In between moments of glamor were gut-honest conversations, deep hugs, and powerful reflections. The all-pink theme added a lighthearted glow, but the heart of the event stayed true to its mission: empowering women to live out loud and lift each other up.
And one more thing, keep your eyes on Women of Southeast LLC. They teased something big is coming, hinting at new moves and a powerful next chapter. No official word yet, but the energy in the room said it all: they’re about to take it to another level. Stay tuned.
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