By Charles Warren, Contributing Writer
On Saturday, April 12, 2025, the Young and Prosperous Foundation hosted a radiant celebration of motherhood with the inaugural Young Excellence Club Mother’s Day Tea. Held at the United Domestic Workers hall on Seminole Drive, the event was a moving tribute to the women who uplift families, shape futures, and inspire communities.
One of the first voices to welcome guests was Khalid Hassan, President of the Young Excellence Club. Standing with poise and pride, he shared, “Thank you all for joining us today. Your presence means so much as we come together to honor and celebrate our mothers. I would like to take a moment to remind everyone about the mission of the Young Excellence Club. The Young Excellence Club is a youth leadership and empowerment program designed to guide and inspire young men, built on the core principles of Brotherhood, Scholarship, and Service to the community.”
Following his remarks, Khalid gave heartfelt thanks to the people who made the event possible. He expressed deep gratitude to his mentors—Dr. Raul, Mr. Cecil, and Ms. Hope—for their unwavering guidance and support. He also took a moment to honor his YEC brothers for their dedication and teamwork, “Without your hard work and commitment, this day would not have been possible. I’m proud to stand beside each of you.”
With brunch, tea and joyful conversation filling the room, attendees gathered to honor ten extraordinary women whose dedication, resilience, and love have left indelible marks on those around them.
The honored mothers were: Bernadett Curtis, Ana Diaz Pina, J’Nesse Fetrow, Dr. Aliya Fredrick, Taura Gentry Kelso, Dr. Sasha Knox, Shamine Linton, Dacia Madden Russell, Ebony Shelton, and Mary Washington. Each honoree was celebrated for her unique journey—balancing personal challenges, professional triumphs, and unwavering commitment to her family and community.
The event featured heartfelt speeches from youth in the Young Excellence Club, live performances, and an elegant tea service, all designed to reflect the love and gratitude felt toward these phenomenal women.
Before the conclusion of the event, a special moment was set aside to acknowledge the women who work daily within the Young and Prosperous Foundation—Ms. Muhammad, Ms. Cheryl, Ms. Ana, Ms. Joanna, and Ms. Dacia—for their tireless dedication behind the scenes.
A number of distinguished guests were also in attendance, including Ebony Shelton, CAO of San Diego County; Ms. Kenya Taylor, President of the NAACP; Police Commander Benjamin Kelso, Police Captain Vernon Peterson, Fire Chief Robert Logan, and YAP Advisory Board Members Christine Lee and Paul Batta, all there to show their support and appreciation.
As the Young and Prosperous Foundation continues its mission to empower the next generation, this inaugural Mother’s Day Tea set a high standard for future celebrations—one grounded in appreciation, dignity, and community spirit.
In a world that often moves too fast to say “thank you,” how often do we pause to truly honor the women who shape our lives?
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