ENVSN Fest 2025 is taking over Brooklyn this weekend, August 9–10, with a two-day experience built to inspire, uplift, and activate the next generation of women leaders. Founded by Sharifa Murdock and Laura Stylez, ENVSN was created to be a space where Gen-Z and Gen-Alpha girls feel safe, seen, and supported as they chase their dreams and shape their futures.
With this year’s theme, “Digital Girl IRL: Plug In and Power Up,” the festival dives into what it means to own your identity and step confidently into the real world. Through workshops, panels, and immersive activations, attendees will explore topics like finances, mental health, entrepreneurship, fashion, and creativity — all tailored to meet the needs of a generation defining success on their own terms.
“This year, people can expect even more hands-on workshops, learning experiences, and real opportunities to grow,” says ENVSN co-founder Sharifa Murdock to Girls United. “We’ve always built ENVSN to be a space where our community walks away feeling inspired and supported.”
The event, powered by Rare Beauty, will be hosted by actress Gail Bean and feature a powerful lineup of voices, including Love Island USA Season 6 winner Serena Page, R&B artist Mariah The Scientist, brand strategist Donye Taylor, creative and celebrity stylist Sierra Rena, Sip N Slay Founder, Nana Agyemang and ESSENCE’s very own Content VP, Nandi Howard. Across two days, these leaders will share real-life insights and empower attendees to move with confidence both online and IRL.
ENVSN continues to redefine luxury, showing that true value comes from self-belief, not material things. From its interactive brand activations to its support for women-owned small businesses through its vendor marketplace, the festival reinforces that individuality is the new wealth — and that you are the luxury.
The festival is also introducing its Radiant Future: Prom Night Initiative this year. Designed to support over 50 high school girls across two major U.S. cities, the initiative helps cover the cost of prom dresses, shoes, accessories, and glam — ensuring girls can experience one of life’s major milestones without financial barriers. ENVSN is inviting brands and supporters to be part of this meaningful investment in girls’ lives and confidence.
“I’m super excited for this year’s ENVSN Fest,” Sharifa Murdock adds. “My co-founder, Laura Stylez, and I are really grateful for the continued support from brands like Rare Beauty, Cash App, Foot Locker, The Brooklyn Circus, and Black in Fashion Council. It means a lot to have returning partners, guests, and now newcomers who believe in what we’re building.”
She continues, “We’re really dedicated to empowering Gen Z, helping the next generation step into their power through programming on topics like finance, women in sports, and career development. One of the things I’m most proud of is the diverse group of people who show up for this. From our audience, to the women-owned businesses in our small business market, to the talent we feature on stage and in our workshops. It’s a beautiful, intentional community, and we’re so excited to keep growing it.”
Tickets for ENVSN Fest 2025 are available now at envsnfestival.com — or you can score your way in for free with GU’s Instagram Giveaway. Five lucky winners will head to ENVSN Fest for NYC’s best event of the summer. Head to @essencegu_ now!