Los Angeles marked a weekend of dual celebration for Black legacy and future leadership on May 16–17, 2025.
Natalia Bryant, daughter of late NBA legend Kobe Bryant, earned her Bachelor of Arts in Film from the University of Southern California’s School of Cinematic Arts—graduating Cum Laude with a GPA between 3.5 and 3.69.
Her commencement stole bore symbols of family and Trojan pride, including her sorority, Kappa Kappa Gamma, the USC motto “Fight On!”, and Kobe’s “Black Mamba” logo.
Standing alongside fellow graduates in cap and gown, Natalia joins the ranks of cinematic arts alumni, over 70 percent of whom secure industry roles within a year.
Vanessa Bryant celebrated her daughter on Instagram—“4 ever @nataliabryant #USCGRAD #CumLaude”—to which Natalia replied simply, “Love you!!!”
Online support poured in from celebrities including Ciara and Michael B. Jordan.
Just miles away on May 17, the city honored the centennial of Malcolm X’s birth by renaming a portion of Crenshaw Boulevard “Malcolm X Way”.
Unveiled during the 33rd annual Malcolm X Festival in Leimert Park, the dedication recognizes his journey from Malcolm Little to El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz and his enduring call for Black self-determination and global human rights. Councilmember Heather Hutt remarked:
“His dedication to human rights transcends borders, connecting the American struggle to global movements.”
By celebrating Natalia’s academic achievement and cementing Malcolm X’s legacy in L.A.’s streetscape, the city bridges past and future, affirming that Black excellence thrives both in the classroom and in the community.
