What a sweet tribute to a sweet voice!
Harlem Shake, the women-led fast-casual restaurant group, is joining hands with Figure Skating in Harlem this Women’s History Month to launch the “Sweet Lena” Milkshake, a treat honoring the late Lena Horne — the iconic singer and actress who left a significant mark on the Civil Rights Movement and the entertainment industry.
This is the second year the two Harlem orgs have collaborated with “Sweet Lena” inspired by Figure Skating in Harlem’s theme, “Harlem to Hollywood.”
According to Jelena Pasic, founder and co-owner of Harlem Shake, the team wanted the milkshake to highlight Horne’s legacy while featuring a striking presentation full of subtle nods to Horne.
“When they approached us with this theme, we immediately thought of Lena Horne,” she said. “She was one of the first African-American actresses to break the Hollywood barrier and fought for civil rights throughout her career. It aligns beautifully with our values of diversity and community engagement.”
The sweet treat will be available at both Harlem Shake locations throughout March, for $16, with $4 from each sale going to support Figure Skating in Harlem’s programming for 2025.
“We wanted the shake to be as fabulous as the figure skating scene in Harlem, and I think we’ve achieved that,” Pasic said.
Celebrating Women’s History Month is extremely important for Pasic, especially as a woman entrepreneur and immigrant who opened Harlem Shake 12 years ago. Customers can also participate beyond the milkshake purchase. At the restaurant, diners can round up their bills or donate additional amounts toward Figure Skating in Harlem.
“Our partnership has only grown stronger, and we’re excited to see how our customers respond this year,” Pasic said. “Figure Skating in Harlem has been our beneficiary for some years now. We are a women-owned business in Harlem, and it only makes sense that we support another organization that empowers girls, especially girls of color. That’s something we hold close to our mission.”
The teams anticipate even better community participation than last year due to enhanced options for donations, making it easier for everyone to contribute, whether they purchase the milkshake or not. Harlem Shake has long been committed to community engagement, with notable initiatives like the annual Mr. and Miss Qantas contest aimed at local residents, further solidifying their ties to the community.
“Every contribution is vital. We want our customers to feel they are a part of something bigger, that their purchase can help uplift our community,” she said.
Pasic carries a personal connection to this mission, reflecting on the barriers her own family faced and the opportunities she now seeks to create, particularly for young girls in Harlem.
Through projects like the “Sweet Lena” Milkshake and a commitment to inspiring the next generation, Harlem Shake is a powerful reminder of the impact of community, culture, and collaboration.
“Women’s contributions to our histories often go unrecognized,” she said. “This month is a way to honor our past while ensuring that future generations can thrive. As women in business, we have a platform to uplift others, and we must use it.”
