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Charletta Wilson Jacks H E A LTH + W E LLN E S S

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Self-Care and Finding Balance in 2026

January 2026 PUBLISHER

Michelle Taylor Willis michelle.taylorwillis@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Erikka Searles Mitchell | emitchell@citylifestyle.com

January can sometimes bring a sense of pressure—a reminder of resolutions left unfulfilled or the weight of expectations. But the start of a new year can also be filled with excitement and a sense of renewal. It’s a time to set new goals, embrace fresh opportunities, and dream about the year ahead. This issue of SoFu Lifestyle was crafted with the goal of offering something different: inspiration for long-term, sustainable improvements in emotional and mental health. SoFu Lifestyle was blessed to interview the next International President of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. this month, Atlantan Charletta Wilson Jacks. She dropped some beautiful words of wisdom on self-care and finding some semblance of balance in our busy lives. Life isn’t about perfection; it’s about consistency. Whether it’s in business, health, or relationships, it’s not what you do occasionally that makes the difference—it’s what you do most of the time. Consider this: you wouldn’t go on vacation every day, but planning a couple of trips each year is a realistic and restorative goal. And in continuing our "Luxury” series, we feature the life-affirming trip that Tomeka Jones took to one of the seven wonders of the world, Machu Picchu! This year, focus on small, consistent actions that lead to a more balanced and fulfilling life. Join a fitness class, carve out moments for rest, and don’t forget to savor life’s pleasures. It’s the “most of the time” choices that shape our lives. Here’s to a healthy, happy 2026—we’re rooting for you! Photo Caption: A.J. Mitchell was presented in the Oukumo Annual Rites of Passage Program at Zion Hill Baptist Church on Campbellton Rd.

AC C O U N T M AN AG E R

Kevin Giles | kevin.giles@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Tomeka Jones, Jada Garner C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Phillipe Bertrand Photography, Gihan Tubbeh/PROMPERÚ, Derek White, Shenika Linen, T. Reeves, Tanisha Tucker, Victor Powell, CattEye Media/Catherine Hamlin

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry COO David Stetler CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Mary Albers LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

ERIKKA SEARLES MITCHELL, EDITOR @ S O U T H F U LT O N L I F E S T Y L E

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marine Campbell

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 SOFU Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the South Fulton area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.

Visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/SOFU

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in SOFU Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

inside the issue JANUARY 20 2 6 | HEA LT H & W EL L N ES S

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Featured

26 32 6

Higher Ground

A 26-Mile Trek to Machu Picchu Became a Reset for Strength, Stillness, and Self-Discovery

On the Cover

Departments

Charletta Wilson Jacks on Wellness, Balance and Self-Care in 2026!

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Money Matters FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES

Travel Journal TRAVEL

Local Limelight EDUCATION

Inspired By HEALTH + WELLNESS

Our Town ARTS + CULTURE

A Conversation With Charletta Wilson Jacks Finding Balance, Self-Care and Her Vision for 2026

Fans and Fedoras

Kappa Iota Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Presents Tea with a Z

Photography: Phillipe Bertrand Photography

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city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

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1-7: High Muesum of Art Names Alison Saar Recipient of 20th Driskell Prize In recognition of her contributions to the field of African American art, Saar was honored at the 20th annual Driskell Prize Gala, featuring a performance by EGOT-winning, critically acclaimed, multiplatinum musician John Legend. Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, the $50,000 prize demonstrates the High’s ongoing dedication to furthering artistic innovation and promoting research of African American artists and scholars. Photography by Derek White of Getty Images

CONTINUED >

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city scene CONTINUED

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1-7: Tyler Perry’s The Oval Season 6 Part 2 Premiere and Fan Appreciation Party Presented by Kron Moore and Gagnant Media The watch party lit up SM44 with great energy, meaningful connections, and a room full of standout guests.

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JANUARY 2026

business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Union City’s Eagles Nest Sports Complex Receives Statewide Recognition for Excellence in Capital Projects The City of Union City is proud to announce that the Eagles Nest Sports Complex has been awarded Best Capital Project (Over $500,000) at the Georgia Recreation and Park Association (GRPA) State Conference. The complex features a state-of-the-art artificial turf field designed for year-round use. It serves as a vibrant gathering place hosting concerts, festivals, summer camps, and citywide celebrations. Amenities include a walking trail, Kaboom! community-built playground, outdoor fitness equipment, volleyball courts, ping pong tables, a community garden, a skatepark, and life-size chess.

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Kermit the Frog as Chaplin Statue Gifted to the Center for Puppetry Arts The Center for Puppetry Arts is honored to announce a gift from the family of Jim Henson: the 12-foot statue of Kermit the Frog dressed as Charlie Chaplin’s The Little Tramp, which has stood at the historic studio on La Brea Avenue in Hollywood for the last 25 years while the property was the headquarters of The Jim Henson Company. The statue will be relocated to the campus of the Center for Puppetry Arts.

Scan to read more Photography courtesy of The Jim Henson Company, with thanks to The Walt Disney Company

Regions Bank Broadway in Atlanta Presents “Hell’s Kitchen” Jan. 6-11 Regions Bank Broadway in Atlanta, AKW Entertainment and producers of the Grammy and Tony Award-winning musical “Hell’s Kitchen” present the hit Broadway musical from 17-time Grammy Award winner, Alicia Keys. The show will play from Jan. 6 – 11, 2026 at the Fox Theatre as a part of the Regions Bank Broadway in Atlanta 2025/2026 season. Tickets are available at the box office at 660 Peachtree Street NE, and by visiting foxtheatre.org/hellskitchen.

Photography by Marc J. Franklin

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

HOW ’ S your F I N A NC I A L FITNESS?

ARTICLE BY GLENDA WALKER

A new year brings fresh opportunities and for many business owners that includes plans to grow, invest, or secure funding. Whether you’re considering a loan, equipment purchase, or expansion, the smartest move you can make now is strengthening your business’s financial wellness and overall financial health. Lenders approve businesses that are prepared, organized, and financially stable, not those scrambling at the last minute. 1. REFRESH AND ORGANIZE YOUR FINANCIAL RECORDS Financial health starts with clean, accurate records. Review key documents such as your profit and loss statement, balance sheet, and cash flow report. Make sure accounts receivable and payable are current. Wellorganized records reflect responsible management and give lenders confidence in your operations.

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2. MEET WITH YOUR ACCOUNTANT OR CPA EARLY Schedule a consultation now—not during tax season. Your CPA can help you plan expenses and understand how deductions impact your borrowing ability. Too many write-offs may reduce taxable income, but they can also make your business appear less profitable. Don’t let short-term tax savings limit your long-term access to funding.

3. STRENGTHEN CASH FLOW Healthy cash flow is essential for both financial wellness and loan approval. Improve it by invoicing regularly, following up on overdue accounts, reducing unnecessary spending, negotiating with vendors, and building a reserve. Consistent cash flow demonstrates your ability to manage debt responsibly. 4. ALIGN PRICING WITH CURRENT COSTS If your expenses increased but your prices didn’t, your margins and financial health are declining. A thoughtful price adjustment helps protect profitability, which strengthens your funding profile. 5. UPDATE BUSINESS DOCUMENTATION Ensure your operating agreement, ownership records, licenses, and contracts accurately reflect your business today. Lenders review these documents to confirm legitimacy and stability. Outdated paperwork creates unnecessary questions and delays. 6. MONITOR AND IMPROVE CREDIT Credit is a core part of financial wellness. Review both business and personal

credit reports. Lenders use credit history to assess reliability and repayment behavior. Address errors or issues now as they take time to correct. 7. DEFINE YOUR FUNDING PURPOSE A business that knows what it wants and why, demonstrates confidence and control. Be clear about how much funding you need, what it will be used for, and how it improves your financial health or drives growth. FINAL WORD: FINANCIAL WELLNESS DRIVES FUNDING SUCCESS Funding goes beyond the balance sheet, and it reflects how prepared, financially healthy, and reliable your business is. Strengthen your financial wellness today, and when opportunities arise, you won’t be unprepared; you’ll be positioned to secure the funding your business needs. For more information or guidance on funding options, contact Glenda Walker Relationship Management Solutions, Inc. Phone: 470-485-4009 Email: info@rmsifundings.com

Warm Holiday Wishes from the Kevin Pierson Agency

As the holiday season fills the air with joy and togetherness, the Kevin Pierson Agency would like to extend our deepest regards to all the wonderful families in our community. Wishing your home joy, love, and warm holiday moments. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your journey. We look forward to serving you in the coming year and wish you a prosperous, healthy, and happy New Year!

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omeka Jo nes rtesy T Cou

H ig her Grou nd: How a 26-Mile Trek to Machu Picchu Became a Reset for Strength, Stillness, and Self-Discovery

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TRAV E L

2. NATURE’S THERAPY Your breathing, hiking shoes, and trekking poles carry you up and down the trail while you’re surrounded by vibrant vegetation in the Andean mountains. Yes, the attitude is extremely high (coca leaves help) especially as you ascend 13,828 feet to Dead Woman’s Pass, which is the highest point of the Inca Trail. Your shortness of breath with every step allows you to dig deep from within while at the same time embracing the mountain landscapes and nature’s natural dopamine.

PROMPERÚ AND TOMEKA JONES

1. MENTAL RESET & STILLNESS First, I highly recommend that you have a strong ‘why’ before you begin your journey along the path to Machu Picchu. This experience isn’t for the faint of heart, but it’s rewarding, and life changing if you’re mentally and physically prepared for a long and challenging adventure. You’ll focus on the gorgeous scenery, the sweet alpaca encounters, and simply putting one foot in front of the other along the well-known Inca Trail. You’re

not alone, one of Peru’s top tour operators, Alpaca Expeditions (www.alpacaexpeditions.com) organizes and escorts hikers past several ancient ruins to the highly anticipated Sun Gate, which is the breathtaking entrance to Machu Picchu. For 4 days and 3 nights, you are disconnected from the world because there’s no phone or internet service during the journey, but you’re deeply connected to the quiet moments between the miles.

ARTICLE BY TOMEKA JONES | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY GIHAN TUBBEH/

When visiting South America for the first time, I didn’t imagine embarking on a wellness journey involving a 26-mile hike to the famous historical sanctuary known as Machu Picchu. The stunning 15th century fortress built in Peru’s Andes Mountains is now one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Many of the more than 1.5 million yearly visitors take a scenic train ride from Cusco to the UNESCO icon. But here’s why your mind, body, and soul might need the 26-mile trek…

Courtesy Tomeka Jones

“

The stunning 15th centur y for tress built in Peru’s Andes Mountains is now one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Courtesy Tomeka Jones

Courtesy Gihan Tubbeh/PROMPERÚ

Courtesy Tomeka Jones

Courtesy Gihan Tubbeh/PROMPERÚ

Courtesy Tomeka Jones

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JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

Courtesy Tomeka Jones

Yes, this experience is an emotional roller coaster ride. I cried at times when it was tough, and tears even flowed when I was happy to make it to a different campsite and especially to Machu Picchu. Either way, experiencing the ancient Inca sites gave me a sense of ‘awe’ and a therapeutic release. 3. COMMUNITY, CONNECTION & CULTURAL WELLNESS One night when our guide, Raul with Alpaca Expeditions asked our group to describe the experience in one word, I said ‘spiritual’. That’s because the journey provides a powerful space for reflection, gratitude and a deep inner connection to the universe. Also, a strong bond is developed with your group over the same steep climbs, rough downhills, altitude struggles, and early-morning starts. This experience might be more for advanced hikers, but I’m a beginner who finished, thanks to the guides and fellow hikers who continued to offer support throughout the entire journey.

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TRAV E L

Courtesy Gihan Tubbeh/PROMPERÚ

Courtesy Tomeka Jones

One hiker stated the adventure was ‘humbling’, not just because of the individual hurdles but watching the local porters carry our duffle bags, camp equipment, and food on their backs to each campsite. The food was superb! The tour company provides professional chefs who hike ahead of you to each site to prepare delicious Peruvian meals. Now spending three nights in a tent along the 26-mile hike to Machu Picchu was a fully immersive cultural experience. This by far is one of the hardest challenges I’ve ever taken on. Finishing is the reward, but stepping onto sacred ground makes every mile worth it. If you’re interested in this experience or another adventure in Peru, check out https://www.alpacaexpeditions.com/. For more travel stories follow Tomeka on Instagram at @travelinstylewithtomeka.

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Imhotep Academy Coronation The 2nd Annual Imhotep Academy Pageant was a vibrant celebration of student talent, leadership, and academic excellence. Led by 91st Miss Morris Brown College, Alena Harris, the coronation honored eight outstanding students: • Miss Imhotep Academy: Julia Bey • Mister Warrior: Winston Carhee • Miss Blue and White: Elin Alexander • Miss Ultimate Student: Maurie Miller • Mister Junior Warrior: Camelo Thomas • Miss Junior Warrior: Mahi Negrin • Mister Little Warrior: Raiden Miller • Miss Little Warrior: Rayna Mhende Students also raised money for scholarships benefiting IA students, reinforcing the academy’s commitment to developing future leaders. If you would like to donate, visit imhotepacademy.net.

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A Conversation with CHARLETTA WILSON Jacks: Finding Balance, Self-Care and Her Vision for 2026

TaneishaTucker Photography

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE TAYLOR WILLIS AND ERIKKA SEARLES MITCHELL

JUST A LITTLE GIRL FROM SAVANNAH, GEORGIA Charletta Wilson Jacks began as a Southern girl who grew up to be a strategist in the community and in life. She’s a champion for all, not just a select few. No matter who you are, she will root you on. As a cheerleader in high school, captain of the Varsity squad for two years and Miss Homecoming at Alfred E. Beach High School, she has always brought the energy. THE ULTIMATE CHEERLEADER The quality that she carries over from her cheer life that has led to her success is being able to meet people where they are. She’s able to sense determination and spirit, bringing agape love and true friendship. She prides herself on being able to lead anyone, including different types of people because each person brings her own value to the world. “I’ll judge you based on my experience with you, not on someone else’s opinion.” A big believer in sisterhood, Jacks mentioned that in AKA, the sisters had to bond together to survive on campus. She is such a thoughtful person and often mails a card or handwritten note to members of the sorority. Her gift lies in this level of care. She is able to remember almost every member’s name along with some interesting fact about them. “People can see that I’m a Sister’s Sister. I care about who you are and what your heart is like,” she told our publisher and AKA member Michelle Taylor Willis. Michelle Taylor Willis notes Jacks shows a high level of discernment. At this point Jacks says that protecting her peace is paramount. She is able to discern a person’s gifts and decides what to say in each situation, meeting people where they are. “I know how I need to respond to protect who I am,” she says.

I NSP IR E D BY | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS

Victor Powell Photography

CattEye Media/Catherine Hamlin Photographer

Phillipe Bertrand Photography

MTW: I REALLY LOVE THAT YOU RESPONDED TO THE QUESTION ABOUT WHO YOU ARE WITHOUT JUST GIVING A TITLE. SO MANY OF US DEFINE OURSELVES WITH HOW PEOPLE SEE US. CWJ: You have to do a self-assessment. I always try to bring my authentic self to the table. My grandmother told me that though things may not always work out but people will know the definition of you. If I’ve shown you who I am, no one else can define me. For example, Jacks’ son wants her to stop losing pounds on her weight loss journey. But he’s not familiar with who she was before becoming a mom. He doesn’t know the thinner CONTINUED >

CattEye Media/Catherine Hamlin Photographer JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

T. Reeves Photography

I NSP IR E D BY | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS

lady that was a student on Howard University’s campus. “I was never the thin girl. I wasn’t a Size 2. Even as a cheerleader trying to learn do a cartwheel, I learned how to not accept limits and believe in who I am.” She says, “The titles will come and go. I’m no longer the Deputy Director for the City of Atlanta but I am still Charletta.”

THE GOAT- ON BECOMING THE “GREATEST OF ALL TIME”

When talking to another young person on her way up careerwise in the Mayor’s Office, she said, “You have to develop relationships. Don’t take your title in the room. Take yourself in the room.”

LEGACY, LEGACY, LEGACY

MTW: HOW DID YOU DECIDE TO BECOME AN AKA? CWJ: My mom is an AKA so there was no other choice but I saw my aunt and her friends who were educators. In 1972, they were traveling to Boule in Denver and I went with them. I was a young person. I went to the Public Meeting and they had these little purses and gloves. They were just gorgeous. I said, ‘Auntie when I go back to Savannah and grow up, I’m going to be an AKA. Then I said I want to sit on the stage and walk like that and talk like those ladies.’ I saw role models in those ladies. Young girls need to see what they can be. That’s why I bring my granddaughter with me everywhere. I could see myself in them. I went to Howard because my aunt went to Howard. Though my best friend is a Delta, there was no other sorority for me. In 2018, I ran for first VP, and I didn’t win. I didn’t have any experience not winning. I was even the student council president in school. I was used to winning. I learned it was ok not to be liked by everyone. MTW: WHEN I THINK OF AKA, IT’S THE CREAM OF THE CROP. EVERYONE IS IT! HOW DO YOU KEEP GOING THROUGH DISAPPOINTMENT? CWJ: I had served as the International Secretary. I really wanted to do that job. I didn’t see it as a stepping stone or a pathway to anything else, though some other sisters did. I realized that God is in control and God said to me, ‘Not now.’ But the timing was perfect. Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms came to me right after that and asked me to work for her and I wouldn’t have been asked if I had won the First VP position then. I focused on family and career and worked in my chapter but some sisters came to me and wanted that cheerleader energy back. When I decided to come back, no one could take my joy, win or lose. I was able to tell the story of falling down and getting back up. Others said that timing was everything, and that the members would not have been able to see my light in the time of the pandemic. MTW: THE SISTERHOOD IS LIKE A FAMILY. HOW DO YOU RECONNECT WITH THE FAMILY? CWJ: Your life of significance is something you were born into. You were destined to empower people so that they can empower others. All of your backup plans will still end up in that place. It may not work out how you think but God’s plan will always work out.

BALANCE

MTW: HOW CAN WOMEN FIND A PLACE OF PEACE WHEN THEY ARE HIGH PERFORMERS? LEADING ORGANIZATIONS AND FAMILIES SIMULTANEOUSLY? CWJ: There is no balance. The scales will always lean one way or another. Pay attention to the most important thing right now. I have included my husband in sorority events when I could. He enjoys a Western on TV and he enjoys cooking. Married 43 years, he’s a keeper, but they are very different people. “He’s secure and God sent him because I didn’t need a mate that wanted to compete with me. I’ve got something to do. He enjoys his life and supports me in the sorority. I took my son, 33, with me to sorority events as he grew up. He got tired of it but now he’s my protector. He’s ready to travel the world with me. My granddaughter got to see me in action in Anaheim. I have a regular spa appointment because I have to take care of me.” MTW: WHAT WOULD A GREAT DAY IN ATLANTA LOOK LIKE WITH SORORITY MEMBERS AND GUESTS? CWJ: I’d take them to the AUC. Education is key and it’s the cradle of the civil rights movement. We would go to Pascal’s and then by City Hall to showcase the history of Mayor Maynard Jackson and Ambassador Andrew Young. Even South Fulton started from the legacy of the AUC. The minority contracts at the airport and other opportunities are what helps to make Atlanta special. MTW: CAN YOU GIVE US ONE WORD ABOUT AKA THAT DEMONSTRATES WHAT IT MEANS TO YOU? CWJ: Fulfilling.

VISION FOR 2026 AND BEYOND: BACK TO BASICS

MTW: WHAT’S THE VISION? WHAT DO THE NEXT 2, 4, OR 10 YEARS LOOK LIKE? CWJ: OWN IT! You are here because you were chosen to fulfill something, even legacies. Own the gift that you have received. As you unbox it, if you take care of it, revere it and protect it; it will keep on giving. Let’s execute the vision of the founders and make their dreams a reality. Let’s go back to the basics. Our first programming was in education. We have to now draw on our time and talents to execute the vision of service to all mankind. They served by giving of themselves and going into the community. I will bring back a successful program from each former International President. Then we will revamp and remix them. It’s my vision to have a program of service that’s adaptable, customizable and flexible for your communities. What will impact your community the most? I want people to be able to tap into the time and talents of each sorority member. I want to bring the energy but I want the same level of excitement in 4 years. Then I’ll know my time has been well spent. We are looking forward to Vegas as she becomes the 32nd International President in the sorority’s 118th year! “I’m a planner so right now I’m working on putting the pieces together. But I will be so excited when we get to Vegas!”

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

FANS AND

Fe d o r a s Kappa Iota Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sororit y, Inc. Presents Tea with a Z

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHENIKA LINEN

O UR TOWN | ARTS + C ULT U RE

“When you support Tea with Z, you are investing in the next generation of leaders. You are helping us turn academic dreams into reality.” HISTORY & LEGACY OF TEA WITH Z

Named in honor of Zora Neale Hurston, pioneering author, folklorist, anthropologist, and proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Tea with Z began over three decades ago in 1994 as a small gathering hosted by the Kappa Iota Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. to celebrate Zora Neale Hurston, as well as to highlight culture and the arts. Over the years, it has grown into one of the most anticipated scholarship events in Metro Atlanta, drawing an intergenerational, co-ed audience across social, civic, and professional sectors. For 45 years, the Kappa Iota Zeta chapter has served the SoFu area: South Fulton, East Point, and the greater Atlanta region—awarding more than $100,000 in scholarships and uplifting countless students. Tea with Z continues this legacy with purpose. Each year, the event raises funds to support college-bound scholars and to celebrate leaders who embody Zora’s spirit of scholarly achievement, courage, and community impact. The 2026 theme is “Fans and Fedoras”—a fun, stylish, cultural nod to tradition and flair. There are several iconic pictures of Zora wearing a stylish hat. The event will be held Sunday, February 22, 2026, from 1-4 pm, at the beautiful Savanna Hall at Zoo Atlanta in The Carlos Ballroom. Guests will enjoy a classic afternoon tea menu with elegant service, the beloved Hattitude Stroll, where attendees showcase stylish hats and statement pieces, and award presentations to college-bound scholarship recipients. There will also be recognition of distinguished community leaders who exemplify excellence and service and live entertainment from Pretty Stringz, a violinist known for fusing classical technique with contemporary flair and the EQ Band (Ernest Quarles Band), delivering an elevated musical experience blending jazz, soul, and culture. Guests can expect an afternoon that seamlessly blends sophistication, cultural pride, artistry, and philanthropy. SoFu Lifestyle got to sit down with Tea Chairwoman Marea White and President Michelle Langham-Robinson, Esq.

ON THE HISTORY AND PURPOSE

“Tea with Z began as a small sisterhood gathering over 30 years ago, and today it has evolved into a premier scholarship event that uplifts our youth and honors those who embody Zora Neale Hurston’s spirit of brilliance, artistry, and boldness.”

ON THE EVENT EXPERIENCE

“Tea with Z is more than an event—it’s an experience. Guests come for the elegance of afternoon tea, the fun

of the Hattitude Stroll, and the vibrancy of our entertainment, but they leave inspired by the scholars whose lives are transformed through these funds.” “This year’s ‘Fans and Fedoras’ theme brings a fresh, fashionable energy to the experience. We’re blending timeless sophistication with cultural flair in a way that evokes the spirit of Zora.” The entertainment will feature Pretty Stringz and the EQ Band at Tea with Z 2026. Their artistry brings a dynamic fusion of classical and contemporary sound that elevates the entire afternoon. “Our entertainment is always carefully curated. Pretty Stringz and the EQ Band reflect the excellence, creativity, and cultural heartbeat that make Tea with Z unforgettable.”

ON THE IMPACT

“When you support Tea with Z, you are investing in the next generation of leaders. You are helping us turn academic dreams into reality.” “Every scholarship we award represents a legacy of service and a belief that education is one of the most powerful tools for changing lives and communities.” “Our community shows up year after year because we all believe in the transformative power of education. Together, we are building futures.” “For our chapter, scholarship isn’t just a principle—it is a promise. Every year, Tea with Z allows us to keep that promise by opening the doors of opportunity for outstanding college-bound scholars.” Tea with Z is first and foremost a scholarship fundraiser aimed at opening doors for promising college-bound students. The chapter’s goal for 2026 is to double the amount of scholarship funds raised, expanding their ability to support educational equity. Tickets are available at https://www.tickettailor.com/ events/zetaphibetasororityinckappaiotazetachapter/1925342 Photo Caption: ZNH 2025 Scholarship Recipient Camille Richardson • Spirit of Zora 2025 Community Awardee Mayor of Union City Vince Williams • Kappa Iota Zeta Chapter President Michelle Langham Robinson, Esq. • Spirit of Zora 2025 Community Awardee Valerie Richardson Jackson • Spirit of Zora 2025 Community Awardee Roslyn Young-Daniels • ZNH 2025 Scholarship Recipient Fatmata Sow JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U

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