Dr. Mahogany L. Browne On The Black Girl Magic Ball And The Unstoppable Power Of Black Excellence [Exclusive] - Page 2
“The awardees are folks that I have come across in my journey, and I bore witness to their philanthropy, to their institution making, to their Black joy, to their Black resistance and to their Black integrity,” Dr. Browne explained. “Because of that, I have a vested interest in just them receiving their flowers while they are here to smell them.”
Dr. Browne developed a deep bond with Sablan during their time together at Pratt Institute, later witnessing firsthand the extraordinary power of her Black Girl Magic in action. Today, Pascale serves as the CEO of Adjaye Associates’ New York studio, where she leads a dynamic portfolio of international cultural, civic, and commercial projects. As the 315th living African American woman licensed as an architect in the United States, Pascale exemplifies excellence, innovation, and sustainability in every facet of her work.
Beyond her architectural achievements, Pascale is a committed activist striving to eliminate disparities in the profession. She is the founder of Beyond the Built Environment, a platform that uplifts women and BIPOC designers, and currently serves as the Global President of the National Organization of Minority Architects. Her leadership marks a historic milestone as only the fifth woman to hold this position in the organization’s 52-year history.
Dr. Browne also shared that she has been collaborating with the legendary Hendryx on a project for the National Black Theatre. Long before their professional partnership began, she was deeply inspired by Hendryx’s artistry and activism. A founding member of the iconic group Patti LaBelle and the Bluebelles, Hendryx has long channeled the spirit of bold, socially conscious singer-songwriters like Nina Simone and Joni Mitchell, using her powerful, genre-defying voice to speak on love, politics, and justice.
Hendryx’s illustrious career spans more than six decades, defined by constant reinvention and fearless creativity. Inducted into the R&B Hall of Fame in 1999, she has released eight solo albums and collaborated with an impressive roster of artists including Prince, Peter Gabriel, Talking Heads, Laurie Anderson, Bono, and Cameo, earning both critical acclaim and a Grammy nomination.
“I’m able to write about the future because Nona Hendryx taught us it was possible. She taught us about the motherboard and Afrofuturism,” Dr. Browne gushed.
