The 2014 Variety Power of Women awards luncheon took place at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel. Put on by Variety magazine, it was an A-list event, honoring various female entertainers for their commitment to charity. Among the honorees were Reese Witherspoon, Viola Davis, and Jane Fonda. They received the Lifetime Impact awards for their causes. For the women, the philanthropy they are involved in is close to their hearts.

These group of women stepped out in style as they shared personal anecdotes on their work and what made it important to them. Witherspoon is part of the Malala Fund, which supports girls’ education. She said the Pakistani teenager is her role model and her daughter is in awe of Malala. Fonda, a longtime activist founded the Georgia Campaign for Adolescent Power & Potential, now 20 years old. It initially aimed to reduce teen pregnancy, and has expanded in other areas. Davis supports Hunger Is, which aims to reduce childhood hunger. She dealt with poverty and has memories of going hungry and searching for food.

The luncheon honored women working to make a difference and empower others to do the same. Fonda said, “I grew up believing that service is the rent you pay for living life.” The awards were in partnership with Lifetime Television. Variety Power of Women is in its 6^th year and celebrates powerful women and their causes. Dressed to impress, they gave moving speeches. Also honored was Donna Langley, chair at Universal Pictures. She was proud to be a part of the event and what it represented for women of the future. “I want them to grow up in a world where female empowerment and female rights are a birthright.” Guests commended the women on their philanthropy, showing the influence they have on action and awareness.