NABFEME Summit

by Ainé Ardron-Doley

Femme power explodes into Philadelphia this weekend as the National Association of Black Female Executives in Music and Entertainment hosts its third annual International Women's Leadership Summit. One part entertainment, one part empowerment, the nation's top business minds unite for three packed days of sister-powered learning, jamming and discussion. Founded in 1999, NABFEME is a 1,500-member stronghold, supporting and empowering black female professionals, managers and technicians in the music and entertainment industries. This year's conference focuses on career development, financial management and family relations -- and then there are those awards! With honorees like Kenny Gamble, Valerie Simpson, Sharon Heyward and Patti LaBelle, there will be no shortage of star power. More celebs: "Tough Love" Judge Glenda Hatchett (pictured) delivers the keynote address at the Mentor Connection Power Luncheon. Of Judge Hatchett syndicated TV-court fame, she's the first African American to serve as chief presiding justice of a Georgia state court and is head of one of the biggest juvenile court systems in the country. Also on board: Talk show host of yesteryear Rolanda, who will speak at the Shero Hall of Fame Ceremony. Grammy-winning violinist Regina King and Lady Tee, a.k.a. soul siren Teena Marie, take to the stage for live performances. Hey, Teena lays claim to 10 self-produced gold and platinum albums -- that's a powerful woman. Case closed.

NABFEME Summit, Presented by PECO. Thu.-Sun., Aug 21-24; including Mentor Connection Power Luncheon, Fri., Aug 22, noon, and Shero Ceremony, Sat., Aug 23, 8 p.m.; $125-$500, Loews Hotel,1200 Market St., 201-724-9836, www.womenet.org.

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