Pepa’s Rhythm & Kicks Sneaker Bash, St Jude Set the Stage for an Unforgettable BET Awards Weekend

As the city of Los Angeles prepared for BET Awards 2025, one event lit the spark that would set the tone for an epic weekend of Black excellence, culture, and purpose. On June 7th, high in the Hollywood Hills, Sandra "Pepa" Denton — iconic member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame group Salt-N-Pepa — hosted her highly anticipated Rhythm & Kicks: Pepa’s Sneaker Bash, an exclusive invitation-only benefit that seamlessly blended star power, style, and service.

This star-studded affair was more than just a party—it was a powerful kickoff to BET Awards Weekend, uniting celebrities, influencers, industry leaders, and supporters with one mission: raising funds and awareness for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in the fight against childhood cancer.

From the moment guests arrived at Sunset Plaza Drive, the atmosphere was electric. The red carpet shined brightly from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM as cameras flashed and guests showcased creative sneaker couture — pairing high fashion with streetwear for a bold Hollywood statement.

Inside the private estate, the ambiance was pure magic. The space was transformed into an elevated artistic experience — with sleek lighting, curated art installations, and an energy that made every guest feel part of something meaningful. DJs kept the room alive with a perfect blend of R&B, hip-hop, and soul that flowed seamlessly throughout the night.

Guests indulged in a luxurious culinary spread of gourmet hors d’oeuvres, signature cocktails, and decadent desserts while engaging in heartfelt conversations about St. Jude’s life-changing mission. The service was flawless, allowing attendees to relax, network, and focus on the cause at hand.

But while the glamour was undeniable, at its core, the night was about the children and families battling pediatric cancer. Donations flowed throughout the evening, with every contribution helping ensure that families at St. Jude never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing, or food — allowing them to focus solely on healing their children.

Celebrity glam squads ensured every guest was camera-ready. Makeup artists, hairstylists, and fashion teams worked behind the scenes to create flawless looks that elevated the red carpet and kept the elegance flowing all night long.

And at the center of it all was Sandra “Pepa” Denton herself. Her passion, warmth, and leadership anchored the evening, reminding everyone why this work matters. With her bold vision and heart for the community, Pepa truly did that — creating a moment that was both elegant and impactful.

As the evening closed under the starlit Hollywood Hills skyline, one message was clear: when our community unites for purpose, we build real change.

The Rhythm & Kicks Sneaker Bash wasn’t just an event — it was the official heartbeat that opened BET Awards Weekend 2025. A perfect blend of style, culture, music, and giving. A powerful start to a weekend that would celebrate Black excellence at every level.

Until next year — this one will be hard to top.

#pepa

#rhythmandkickssneakerbash

#betawards2025