SHERYL LEE RALPH AND THE DIVA FOUNDATION CELEBRATE 35 YEARS
Sheryl Lee Ralp attends the 35th Anniversary Gala of DIVAS Simply Singing held at the Taglyan Complex on November 01, 2025, in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Earl Gibson III/Deadline via Getty Images)
Emmy Award-winning actress and advocate Sheryl Lee Ralph brought together some of the entertainment industry’s most inspiring voices for the 35th Annual DIVAS Simply Singing! Raising Health Awareness Gala, held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at the elegant Taglyan Complex in Hollywood, California. DIVAS Simply Singing! is The DIVA Foundation’s signature fundraising event that supports vital programs that promote health awareness.
Hosted and produced by Ralph and The DIVA Foundation, her trailblazing nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting, educating, and empowering through artistic activism, the milestone event honored three and a half decades of DIVAS Simply Singing!, a cultural touchstone that continues to use music and community to promote health awareness and celebrate resilience.
"We’re really excited to partner with Sheryl and the DIVA Foundation to celebrate the 35th anniversary of DIVAS Simply Singing, " said Shreya Jani, Senior Vice-President of Public Affairs at Gilead Sciences. "For over three decades, this gala has been a powerful platform for raising health awareness while honoring lives impacted by HIV. Sheryl’s ability to use storytelling and the arts to educate and uplift communities is incredible and resonates with Gilead’s mission to end the HIV epidemic for everyone, everywhere.”
A Legacy of Purpose and Performance. Now celebrating its 35th consecutive year, DIVAS Simply Singing! Raising Health Awareness is the longest-running HIV/AIDS and health awareness benefit concert in the United States. Founded in response to the early days of the AIDS crisis, Ralph’s vision has evolved into a movement that bridges art and advocacy, joy and justice.
The 2025 gala, made possible by the generous support of presenting sponsor Gilead Sciences, delivered an unforgettable evening filled with powerful performances, heartfelt tributes, and calls to action, reminding guests that music can entertain and heal.
Actress, Tabitha Brown
Honoring Voices of Vision, Courage, and Legacy
This year’s gala honored extraordinary leaders and transformative change-makers through The DIVA Honors—visionary individuals whose lives and work illuminate The DIVA Foundation’s enduring mission of service, empowerment, and compassion. Rev. Debra Fraser-Howze proudly accepted the DIVA Honors Inaugural Visionary Award, presented by Deborah Telman, executive vice president of corporate affairs and general counsel at Gilead Sciences. This prestigious award underscores her groundbreaking advocacy and unwavering leadership in HIV/AIDS awareness and health equity.
Sheryl Lee Ralph, Billy Davis, Jr., Marilyn McCoo attends the 35th Anniversary Gala of DIVAS Simply Singing held at the Taglyan Complex on November 01, 2025, in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Earl Gibson
Entertainment icons Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr. proudly received The DIVA Honors Legacy of Love Humanitarian Honor, sponsored by AARP and presented by Sheryl Lee Ralph, in recognition of their decades-long dedication to music, love, and philanthropy.
How DIVAS Simply Singing Foundation Has Changed the Trajectory on HIV and AIDS
In a world where self-expression is vital, the DIVAS Simply Singing Foundation emerges as a beacon of hope and creativity. This remarkable initiative focuses on uplifting voices through the healing power of music while addressing critical issues like homelessness and mental health awareness. Founded by renowned singer and actress, Sheryl Lee Ralph, the foundation aims to provide opportunities and support for individuals to express themselves artistically, regardless of their backgrounds.
The foundation organizes several workshops, performances, and outreach events throughout the year, bringing together diverse groups of people to celebrate the transformative nature of music. One of their primary missions is to raise awareness and funds for those facing homelessness, a cause that tangentially connects with many artists who share their stories through song. Moreover, the impact of music goes beyond mere entertainment; it can serve as therapy. Various studies have shown that engaging in musical activities can significantly reduce feelings of anxiety and depression, promoting overall wellbeing. The DIVAS Simply Singing Foundation harnesses this idea, creating safe spaces for individuals to find solace and empowerment through their artistic endeavors.
Each year, the foundation's signature event, DIVAS Simply Singing, showcases an array of talent from both established and emerging artists. Attendees not only enjoy stellar performances but also contribute to a greater cause. Proceeds from the event directly fund the foundation's programs, ensuring that those who need support have access to vital resources. The night's spirit is electric, with heartfelt performances mingling perfectly with the mission of the foundation, which highlights the resilience of the human spirit.
In addition to performances, the foundation offers mentorship programs for aspiring singers who hope to make a difference in their communities. By equipping them with skills and knowledge, DIVAS Simply Singing empowers these artists to use their talent as a tool for social change. As the foundation continues to grow, it remains committed to fostering a community where voices are heard and appreciated. By participating in their events or donating, you’re not just supporting artistry but also contributing to a movement aimed at transforming lives through music. DIVAS Simply Singing Foundation serves as an important reminder that music is not merely an art form. It is a vital aspect of our humanity that connects us, heals us, and together with the foundation’s efforts, elevates those in need. Be a part of this inspiring journey and feel the difference your support can make. Join the movement and help empower voices today. ++
