StaffOn February 16, 2025, Atlanta’s 42West hosted a remarkable convergence of culture and entertainment: the Black Excellence Brunch followed by an exclusive screening and discussion of the anticipated CBS daytime drama, “Beyond The Gates.”
The Black Excellence Brunch, founded by Trell Thomas, is renowned for celebrating and empowering Black professionals across various industries. This Atlanta edition continued the tradition, providing a platform for networking and honoring achievements within the Black community. The event’s ambiance was elevated by attendees donning elegant attire, reflecting the sophistication and pride emblematic of Black excellence.
Beyond The Gates Screening
Following the brunch, guests were treated to an exclusive screening of “Beyond The Gates,” a groundbreaking series that delves into the intricate lives of residents in a fictional community, exploring themes of identity, heritage, and societal challenges. The narrative promises to resonate with audiences through its authentic portrayal of contemporary issues faced by the Black community.
The event attracted a constellation of stars and notable figures. Actress Tamara Tunie, celebrated for her roles in “Law & Order: SVU” and “Blue Bloods,” graced the occasion, exuding elegance and enthusiasm for the series. Television personality Toya Johnson also attended, bringing her signature style and charisma to the event. Both celebrities engaged with fans and media, expressing their excitement for “Beyond The Gates” and its cultural significance.
The screening was followed by a dynamic talk-back session, featuring the show’s creators and cast members. They discussed the creative process, the importance of representation in media, and the series’ potential impact on viewers. Audience members had the opportunity to pose questions, leading to insightful dialogues about the portrayal of Black experiences on mainstream television.
The other notable personalities that were seen enjoying at the event were RhonniRose Mantilla, Arielle Prepetit, Karla Mosley, Clifton Davis, Daphnee Duplaix, Colby Muhammad, Brandon Claybon, Damon D. Jones, Maurice Johnson, Marquita Goings, Ambyr Michelle, Lawrence “Miss Lawrence” Washington, Jibre Hordges, Sheila Ducksworth, Daylon A. Groff, Timon Kyle Durrett, Ami McClure, Anisa Brenee, Julie Hanan Carruthers, Terri J. Vaughn, Sean Freeman, Trey Bryant, Sean Freeman and Jasmine Davis.
The choice of 42West as the venue added a layer of prestige to the event. Known as one of Atlanta’s most sought-after high-end event spaces, 42West offers a unique and exclusive atmosphere that complemented the evening’s themes of excellence and cultural celebration.
In essence, the Black Excellence Brunch and “Beyond The Gates” screening at 42West epitomized a celebration of Black culture, achievement, and storytelling. The event not only highlighted the talents of Black artists and professionals but also fostered meaningful conversations about representation and narratives within the entertainment industry.
