Birmingham’s brightest changemakers took center stage Saturday evening as the Steel City Legacy Gala made history with Alabama’s first-ever Met Gala-inspired experience, transforming the iconic WorkPlay Theater into an evening of fashion, philanthropy, culture, and community excellence.

The sold-out gala welcomed civic leaders, entrepreneurs, educators, artists, elected officials, philanthropists, and community advocates for an unforgettable celebration honoring individuals whose commitment and service have shaped Birmingham and surrounding communities for years. Throughout the evening, the Steel City Legacy Gala awarded more than $40,000 in academic scholarships and small business grants, reinforcing its mission of creating meaningful opportunities for students, entrepreneurs, and future leaders.

Founded by entrepreneur and philanthropist Kyla Carr, the Steel City Legacy Gala has quickly become one of Alabama’s most anticipated annual celebrations—recognizing hometown heroes while investing in the next generation of changemakers throughout the Magic City.

“Tonight was about honoring people who have poured into Birmingham for years without expecting recognition,” said Carr. “Legacy isn’t measured by titles—it’s measured by lives changed. We wanted to give our community’s heroes their flowers while they’re here to receive them.”

Inspired by the glamour and creativity of the internationally renowned Met Gala, guests arrived in couture fashions, avant-garde designs, and elegant formalwear that transformed the evening into one of Birmingham’s most stylish and meaningful celebrations. Beyond the fashion, the gala served as a powerful reminder that true legacy is built through service, leadership, mentorship, and community impact.

More than 70 outstanding individuals were recognized across multiple award categories celebrating excellence in leadership, entrepreneurship, fashion, media, public service, business, advocacy, and community engagement.

Legacy Award Honorees

The Legacy Award recognized visionary leaders whose influence and dedication continue to strengthen Birmingham and surrounding communities.

• Shakeitha Tatum
• Pastor Mike McClure Sr.
• Matt Roth
• Jannie Ashley
• Kevin Key
• Lynneice O. Washington
• Dr. Kris E. Eskine
• Brenda Paige Ward
• Judge Ruby D. Clark
• Gilberto Herrera
• The Goodwins
• Tewanna Gulley
• Mayor James Stewart Jr.
• Glenda S. Thomas
• Nicole Sade Daniel
• Ronda Robinson
• Jacquese Gary
• Bettie Johnson Hunter
• DJ CJ Tha Sticman

Path Maker Award Honorees

The Path Maker Award celebrated individuals creating new opportunities while inspiring others through leadership, innovation, and service.

• Dee Reed
• Dorothea Crosby
• Tiffany Samuels
• Daroneshia Duncan Boyd
• Dana Woodruff
• Angelica Melendez
• First Lady K
• Ferlando Parker
• Mrs. Vee
• Nalia Jackson
• Chef Mark
• Kevin Myers
• Bradius “Brad” Hall
• Ezekiel Morgan
• Adrian
• Brian Jones
• Martell Red
• Monae Chanel

Fashion Forward Award Honorees

Recognizing creatives and tastemakers whose influence continues to elevate style, fashion, beauty, and culture.

• Ryan Christopher
• Kenya Buchanan
• Derricius Breon
• Brian Pride
• DeAngela Pippen
• Sonya Faye Gardner
• Tony Minifield
• Daniel Grier
• Jay Beats
• Nicole Stallworth
• Michael Nabors

Influencer Impact Award Honorees

Honoring digital creators and influential voices using their platforms to educate, inspire, entertain, and uplift communities.

• Blynn
• Corey Pritchett Jr.
• Floss The Mack
• Leora Byrd
• Brittany Monique
• China Davis
• Kenya Carson
• Dreka Ray
• Akila Face
• DJ Pakk
• Joy Hendrix
• Matt Hogue

Lifetime Achievement Award Honorees

One of the evening’s most memorable moments celebrated an extraordinary class of Lifetime Achievement Award recipients, honoring decades of leadership, excellence, and transformational impact across business, entertainment, entrepreneurship, education, and community service.

• Erica Adeyemi
• Mario Addison
• Candace Holyfield Parker
• Larry Allen
• Urban Mystic
• Casey Diggs
• Cedric Washington
• Dr. Cheyenne Bryant
• Marcus “Him500” Barney
• Mary Holmes
• Michelle Aesthetics

Throughout the evening, guests experienced inspiring tributes, moving award presentations, dynamic entertainment, and memorable moments celebrating the remarkable individuals whose leadership continues to shape Birmingham’s future.

As one of Alabama’s newest signature events, the Steel City Legacy Gala has already established itself as a premier platform for recognizing excellence while creating tangible pathways toward educational advancement, entrepreneurship, economic empowerment, and community development.

Plans are already underway for the 2027 Steel City Legacy Gala, where organizers intend to expand scholarship opportunities, increase small business investments, and continue honoring the extraordinary people who make Birmingham stronger every day.

For sponsorship opportunities, partnership inquiries, media requests, or information about next year’s event, visit www.steelcitylegacygala.com.

About Kyla Carr

Kyla Carr is a multi-business entrepreneur, financial educator, philanthropist, and community leader committed to creating generational impact through economic empowerment, financial literacy, and mentorship. She is the founder of Faith & Integrity Financial and Family Tax Services, Hair Maniacs, and The Revenue Maven, where she equips entrepreneurs with strategies to identify hidden revenue opportunities, build sustainable businesses, and create lasting wealth. Through her philanthropic initiatives, Carr continues to invest in scholarships, financial education, mentorship programs, and community initiatives that strengthen families, support small businesses, and empower future leaders.