One of the things people gravitate to that bridges the gap between a long day and a feel-good experience is an amazing event. Whether it be a sports game, a festival, or a concert, live entertainment creates global unions by way of hosting a space for thousands to convene and celebrate. At the forefront of one of the world’s leading sports and live entertainment companies is Tamala Lewis. With 17 years under her belt with AEG and a passion for “putting smiles on people’s faces and giving them memories, they will never forget,” it is befitting that she holds the title of the senior director of Dignity Health Sports Park Community Affairs and Foundation for AEG. It is also befitting that the ladies of philanthropy discuss the new process, progress and potential for the future of entertainment.
As the world phases into re-opening, there are so many people who, like Tamala, are incredible for pulling people together for purpose. It can take a special touch to bridge the gap between philanthropy and the entertainment world; yet, with true humility and grace, Tamala views her position as a baton holder.
“Right now, during this stage of the pandemic, the community needs essentials and hope. The bridge is already built. I just have to make sure that I open the path for people to cross and give them a reason to get to the other side.”
In times of crisis, the Red cross is fortunate to witness the best of humanity as people from all over the world roll up their sleeves to help those in need. During this time, Dignity Health Sports Park and host of sponsors saw the need and pulled together a series of Blood Drives to assist in one of the biggest overlooked needs in the community.
“The need for blood is constant and only volunteer donors can fulfill that need for patients in our community. Per the American Red Cross, nationwide someone needs a unit of blood every 2 to 3 seconds and most of us will need blood in our lifetime. The Los Angeles Galaxy has teamed up with the America Red Cross and Anheuser-Busch on May 21 and June 4 for a community blood drive at Dignity Health Sports Park. AEG has partnered with Anheuser-Busch and American Red Cross to continue to be an industry-leader in their efforts to help those currently in need.”
Another area or community that has been greatly affected by this pandemic are the voices of the artists in the entertainment and film industry. The voices of women in entertainment which has seen a significant incline in the industry is being looked-for during this time of crisis. Although we are adjusting to the new norm and still practicing social distancing, Tamala felt the need to continue to move forward with her 7th annual Women in Entertainment Event but on a virtual platform.
“We have decided to move forward in making 2020 Women in Entertainment (Film, TV, Music, Sports, and Fashion) Luncheon a virtual event and return in 2021 as a in person event.
“I created the event 7 years ago on a note pad and it had grown into an amazing event and a blessing. I had received so many emails and phone calls asking me not to cancel the event. They were all telling me that they needed this event more than ever. It will not be same, but we are going to make it happen.
“We dedicate this event to the Queens of the Industry and will continue to do just that. All these amazing women have given and continue to give their all to their jobs and we salute them. Every year we select a woman owned non-profit that has been a light in the community. The 2020 Inspiration Award Honoree will be Ms. Susan Burton (Founder of A New Way of Life Reentry Project Ms. Susan Burton) she will be honored during the virtual event.”
No man is an island. In philanthropy it takes many open hearts to rally together to support and up lift those in need. Tamala Lewis is always grateful and appreciative of the continual support and collaborative efforts from sponsors and partners in the community.
“Big thank you to all of our amazing sponsors that will support us this year and next year; LA Lakers, LA Dodgers, Coca Cola, City National Bank, Watson Land Company, and The Cochran Firm California. The event has also been hosted by Dignity Health Sports Park’s ASCSC Community Foundation, NABFEME, and Women Helping Women in Entertainment for the past 7 years.”
Tamala continues to be an inspiration and role model to men and women throughout the community. When asked, “Who was her role model?”
“I’ve had and still have women and men role models and mentors in my life, but it all started at home with my parents as my first role models.”
When she is not creating events and giving back to her community, she is a wife of 4x Olympic Track and Field Medalist, Steve Lewis and a mother of two daughters. She is also a former recording artist on Columbia/Sony Records, professional dancer for several top recording artists, and clothing designer. While already wearing so many hats, one would want to know what is next for this senior director?
“For the last few months we have learned firsthand that things can change in an instant and tomorrow is never promised. I’ll take it day-by-day and an continue to keep creating and giving back to the community.”
For more information on how you can donate blood or volunteer at one of the scheduled blood drives taking place in the community please visit RedCrossBlood.org/OneTeam.
