Marsai Martin, Robin Thede, Courtney Kemp and More Honored at Lexus Uptown Honors Hollywood Pre-Oscars Event (PHOTOS)

Several powerful black women in film were recently recognized for their contributions to the industry—both in front and behind the camera—at annual Lexus Uptown Honors Hollywood event.

Held at NeueHouse in Hollywood, this year the event honored writer, producer and creator of “Power (Starz),” Courtney A. Kemp, Warner Bros. Pictures Executive Niija Kuykendall; writer, performer, producer and show-runner Robin Thede, and actress and executive producer Marsai Martin.

Hosted by Tai Beauchamp and Chris Spencer, the event is a prelude to the Academy Awards. NeueHouse was lavishly decorated with beautiful white rose centerpieces. Guests enjoyed a five-course dinner, followed by a private after-party.

Several members of the cast of “Power,”— Naturi Naughton, Larenz Tate and Jospeh Sikora— were on hand to present Kemp with her award. Thede delivered a humorous speech as she accepted her award, with honoree Kuykendall discussing breaking barriers and being fearless in the industry.

In addition, Martin delivered an empowering speech, noting that being a teenager was much harder than being the youngest executive producer working in Hollywood.

“Tonight is about celebrating exceptional talent leading the way and contributing to the industry in front and behind the camera,” Len Burnett co-CEO and chief revenue office, of UPTOWN Ventures Group said in remarks.

Also among the celebrity guests in attendance included Malinda Williams, Curtis Hamilton, Affion Crockett, Miss J. Alexander, Gabrielle Dennis, TJ Jackson, Kenny Latimore, Terrence J, Bresha Webb, Sheryl Lee Ralph, and Cynthia Bailey.

See Photos from the Lexus Uptown Honors Hollywood event below:

Courtney Kemp

Marsai Martin

Larenz Tate

Cynthia Bailey and Mike Hill