Women’s History Month was the perfect time for the organization M.A.D.E (Meaningful Action Designed to Elevate) Community to honor and salute ladies who earned recognition. The organization’s founder, Blu Ellis, recently hosted “Dope Black Woman,” M.A.D.E.’s celebration dinner in Prospect Lefferts Gardens, Brooklyn at Sweet Catch BK with an event sponsored by Patrón Tequila.
According to their website, “M.A.D.E. unites professionals of color by instilling the value of network and cultivating net worth.” Sweet Catch BK’s owner Kawana Jefferson was excited to host this year’s event at her establishment. “20-30 Black women gathering in a Black woman-owned business for Women’s History Month is literally a no brainer,” said Ellis. The southern-inspired seafood restaurant, open since September 2022, served as the ideal venue to congregate.
“Hosting the M.A.D.E event at Sweet Catch felt like a powerful affirmation of our collective strength and resilience, especially as a Dope Black Woman myself,” said Jefferson. The owner and her staff were extremely friendly and accommodating to everyone. As a proud hostess, this honoring during Women’s History Month was significant for her. “It was a moment of pride and solidarity that resonated deeply.”
The solidarity and camaraderie in the room was palpable, notably when Renae Bluitt gave her speech. “It is such an honor to be seen and celebrated by the women in my community,” said Bluitt. “M.A.D.E Community has been an incredible source of inspiration for Black women since its inception.”
The evening’s honoree used this opportunity to promote her documentary, “She Did That,” available on Amazon Prime video. Additionally, Bluitt expressed feeling truly appreciated and felt the celebration was “timely.” “This is the energy that I’m looking forward to taking into this new season, thank you.”
Jefferson was elated for Bluitt. “Seeing Renae being honored during the event was incredibly inspiring and humbling,” said Jefferson. “Chatting with her afterwards felt like sharing a moment of mutual respect and admiration.”
Brenika Banks photos
Sweet Catch BK owner Kawana Jefferson and “Dope Black Woman’s” 2024 Honoree Renae Bluitt chatting post dinner. 
“Dope Black Woman” dinner celebration gift bags for guests. 
(From left to right) an attendee, “Dope Black Woman’s” 2024 Honoree Renae Bluitt and M.A.D.E Community’s founder Blu Ellis. 
Sweet Catch BK’s grape nut ice and banana bread dessert during “Dope Black Woman” honor dinner.
M.A.D.E. Community is dedicated to constantly promoting and creating events throughout the year. “I’m always about networking,” said Ellis. “I think that is my strong point, it’s connecting.” The entrepreneur strongly aims to rally and network with other business owners in Brooklyn. “It started with me meeting with [one business owner] and me saying, ‘let’s get all the other business owners in Bed-Stuy together.’”
Although Ellis was quite optimistic, she quickly discovered there was no shortage of business owners to unite for dinner. While suggesting a larger space for more entrepreneurs to mingle in Brooklyn, COVID-19 forced M.A.D.E Community to redirect their attention to the needs of Black people. Ellis observed how Black neighborhoods were hit the hardest during the pandemic. According to Mental Health America, Black Americans were dying from COVID-19 at nearly 2.5 times the rate of white people.
With tragedies stinging Black neighborhoods during 2020, Ellis and M.A.D.E became a beacon of light. The organization was determined to be attentive and supportive to African descendants in Brooklyn. Post COVID-19, this help transitioned into Ellis becoming heavily inspired by Women’s History Month. “I know so many dope Black women, [and thought] let’s do a dinner!” said Ellis. The concept started from 20 close girlfriends enjoying a meal to creating a logo and converting “Dope Black Woman” into a brand.
As she reflected on year three’s banquet, Ellis admitted she loved seeing “amazing women” gather for this celebration and networking with one another. It was an uplifting evening for Jefferson and all the women in attendance. Ellis confirmed M.A.D.E Community will continue into the field of honoring Black women.
“Next year, we want to make it more of an awards [ceremony],” said Ellis. She envisions the following year’s event to resemble Black Girls Rock’s annual award show.
For more information, please visit www.madecommunity.org and madeforus.net