The Beacons, Baddies & Breakouts: This Year in Black Culture

Olandria Carthen was one of the standout breakouts of 2025, celebrated by EBONY as a cultural beacon for her influence on fashion, reality TV, and Black excellence — from becoming a fan‑voted People’s Choice honoree at the EBONY Power 100 Gala to dominating red carpets and trend lists with her viral style and impact. This article highlights why Olandria’s rise was one of the year’s most talked‑about moments.