In a vibrant celebration of self-love, community, and mental health awareness, Project Pit, an innovative partnership platform, hosted the 2nd annual ‘I Love Myself Festival’ in collaboration with the LA County Department of Mental Health as a part of the Take Action LA initiative.
This dynamic event, held at Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza in Los Angeles, epitomized the mission of Project Pit to intersect entertainment with social impact by uniting artists, brands, and organizations.
Pretty Dee accepts her award at Project Pit’s ‘I Love Myself’ Festival
Photo credit:Project Pit/Von Robinson
The festival shined a spotlight on several prominent figures who have inspired positive change in the South LA community and beyond. Chart-topping, multiplatinum-selling artist Omarion was honored as the Cultural Impact Honoree. Entrepreneur and TV personality Angela White, also known as Blac Chyna, received the Transformation Award for her personal journey of growth and resilience.
“This means everything to me, it’s kind of surreal, like wow this is nice,” White said in regard to her honor. Accompanied by her children, Dream Kardashian and King Cairo, she delivered an inspiring speech emphasizing the importance of seeking help and the acceptance of vulnerability. A delightful moment of White and Dream dancing to Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” added a touch of warmth and family joy to the event.
Comedian Pretty Vee, honored with the Comedic Light Award, brought her signature humor and positivity to the stage, highlighting her advocacy for mental health and the role of faith in her personal journey. “It’s always something bigger, you know I’m an advocate of mental health, I love to dive into the mind, hear the stories and help as much as I can – just to be a part of something like this is legendary,” she shared.
Festival attendees were treated to a captivating performance by GRAMMY Award-nominated, multi-platinum R&B singer Mario. His smooth vocals and nostalgic hits like “Break Up,” “Crying Out for Me,” “How Do I Breathe,” and “Let Me Love You” resonated with the crowd. Mario’s words of wisdom, emphasizing self-love, responsibility, and perseverance, added depth to his performance, reinforcing the festival’s core message. The festival also recognized other influential figures for their contributions to mental health advocacy and community support such as Blavity that received the Media Light Award, Stephanie Ike Okafor, pastor and podcast host, was honored with the Faith Light Award, The Drew League was awarded the Sports Mindful Award, and Supervisor Holly Mitchell received the Political Light Award. These honorees shared the stage to emphasize the importance of self-care, community support, and dismantling mental health stigmas, echoing the festival’s empowering and resilient spirit.
Mario takes the stage at Project Pit’s ‘I Love Myself’ Festival
Photo credit:Project Pit/Von Robinson
The I Love Myself Festival offered a diverse array of activities designed to promote well-being and community engagement. The serene Garden Stage featured R&B Yoga and soothing sound bowls by Sol & Sound. The Kid Zone and Sparks Zone offered fun and mindful activities like air hockey and basketball, fostering a relaxed and positive atmosphere for attendees of all ages. The Mental Health Resource Village provided essential health screenings and access to licensed therapists, ensuring that mental health resources were readily available to those in need.
The 2nd annual I Love Myself Festival, presented by Project Pit and the LA County Department of Mental Health, was more than just an event—it was a testament to the power of community, entertainment, and social impact. By honoring influential voices, providing engaging activities, and promoting mental health awareness, the festival succeeded in creating a space where healing, expression, and support could thrive. As Project Pit continues to unite artists, brands, and organizations, the I Love Myself Festival stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when entertainment intersects with social impact.