Influential leaders from the worlds of arts, politics and media gathered at the historic Gotham Hall on Tuesday to celebrate the 2025 Root 100 Gala, an event that signaled a transformative new direction for the iconic digital publication.
The evening served as a formal relaunch of The Root under its new owner and publisher, Ashley Allison, who acquired the platform earlier this year through her company, Watering Hole Media.
The gala moved away from its traditional numerical ranking system this year, choosing instead to honor a collective of 100 influential Black Americans without assigning individual tiers. “Unlike in previous years, The Root 100 will present the best in Black achievement without rankings, celebrating each honoree equally for their contributions and impact. This shift reflects a renewed commitment to collective recognition honoring the shared brilliance, innovation, and cultural influence that continue to define the Black experience.
The guest list featured high-profile figures including broadcast journalists Gayle King, Tamron Hall, Don Lemon and Abby Phillip, alongside political figures such as U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett and activist Tamika Mallory.
Comedian Joyelle Nicole Johnson hosted the program and featured a surprise performance by 803 Fresh, who performed his viral hit “Boots On The Ground,” as well as sets from hip-hop legend Doug E. Fresh and DJ Aktive.
Martell’s regional brand ambassador, Jasmin Goldstein
The gala was supported by partners including Martell. HOT 97 caught up with Martell’s regional brand ambassador, Jasmin Goldstein. “My biggest accomplishment this year was stepping into my role with Martell. I’m really proud that I get to tell the Martell story in a way that feels authentic to both the brand and my community. We launched the Make It With Martell tour, and one of the highlights for me was activating in Houston across four Black-owned establishments. Being able to bridge heritage, culture, and opportunity in spaces that look like where I come from — that’s the kind of work that makes me proud.”
Taking inspiration from the gala, Jasmin encourages the next generation of leaders to simple be themselves, after all.. everyone else is taken. “It’s been said a million times, but it stays true because it matters: Be yourself. Passion and purpose live close to each other, and you only find them by staying rooted in who you are. The world will try to tell you how to show up, especially as a young Black creative or leader, but your real power comes from leaning into your own voice, embracing the beauty of your own story, and staying true to who you are as you move through the world” expresses Goldstein.
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