The Birmingham Divine Brunch Affair Brought the Divine 9 Together for Culture, Community, and Unity

On Sunday, January 18, The Birmingham Divine Brunch Affair transformed Martin Luther King Jr. Weekend into a powerful celebration of Black culture, fellowship, and collective purpose. The event, held at Michael’s Restuarant, welcomed members of the Divine 9 from across the Greater Birmingham area, as well as Montgomery, for an elevated brunch experience rooted in unity and tradition.

The concept was created by Perry Varner, a tenured figure in events, fashion, and community engagement whose influence spans Montgomery, Birmingham, and New York City. Known for his intentional approach to culture-driven experiences, Varner envisioned the Divine Brunch as more than a social gathering; it was designed to serve as a reminder of the shared responsibility Black Greek Letter Organizations carry when they come together as one.

Guests enjoyed a seamless blend of atmosphere and hospitality. The experience featured limited complimentary mimosas, cooked-to-order selections from Michael’s restaurant menu, and a buffet-style breakfast served on the rooftop at Bar Sebastian. The setting encouraged conversation, connection, and celebration, creating space for fraternity and sorority members to fellowship beyond chapter lines and organizational silos.

The Divine 9 runs deep with Varner and his family, who collectively represent four of the nine Divine 9 organizations. Varner, a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., invited Grown and Greek to co-host the event. The platform, owned by Phaith Frazier, serves as a cultural hub for Divine 9 alumni, offering weekly commentary and storytelling through the Grown and Greek® Podcast. Frazier, a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, also showcased her Grown and Greek® Fashion accessory line during the brunch. The collection features thoughtfully designed travel bags, purses, and eyeglass cases crafted from Colombian leather, offering a modern and intentional take on Divine 9-inspired fashion.

Varner also presented custom and reimagined pieces from his fashion line, Richard Dickerson (aka Rich Dick), further reinforcing the intersection of style, identity, and cultural pride that defined the afternoon.

Hosting the Divine Brunch during the busy Martin Luther King Jr. Weekend was a deliberate choice. The timing served as a reminder that Black Greek Letter Organizations have a greater collective charge — uplifting communities socially, economically, and civically, not just through individual chapters but through unity. Dr. King consistently called on members of Black Greek Letter Organizations to stand together in the fight for civil rights, community advancement, and economic empowerment, making the weekend an especially meaningful backdrop for the gathering.

Additional Highlights from the Guest List

While everyone in the room represented Black excellence, the brunch drew a notable mix of respected professionals and community leaders, underscoring the reach and influence of the Divine 9 across Birmingham and beyond. Among the attendees was well-known Birmingham attorney Byron Perkins, a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., along with attorney Joi Travis, a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Guests also included Guy Rawlings, television news anchor with WVTM 13 and a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and Rick Jackson, Chief Communications Officer at Talladega College and a member of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc.

Also in attendance were Alabama Greek Picnic founders Shumaine and TaMarcus Pruitt, members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated, respectively. Pastor Kurt S. Clark of Sardis Missionary Baptist Church in Birmingham and his wife, Judge Ruby D. Clark, also stopped by to show support and represent their respective Divine 9 organizations, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Also in attendance was Mr. Jarrod Sims, President of the Black Contractors Association – Alabama Chapter, who, while not a member of a Black Greek Letter Organization, came out to support the spirit of unity and intentionally shop with the event’s vendors for several family members and friends. His presence highlighted the broader community support surrounding the Divine Brunch and reinforced the idea that unity and economic circulation extend beyond organizational lines.

The Birmingham Divine Brunch Affair stood as a reflection of what is possible when culture, intention, and community align. It wasn’t just brunch — it was a statement about collaboration, legacy, and shared responsibility.

The momentum doesn’t stop here. Perry Varner will team up once again with Phaith Frazier and Grown and Greek®, along with an all-star lineup of partners and sponsors, for B’HAM Men’s Fashion Week, taking place April 29 through May 3, 2026. Another creative concept from Varner, the week will feature a curated series of high-fashion moments and social events, continuing the conversation at the intersection of style, culture, and community.

For Urbanham, The Birmingham Divine Brunch Affair was a reminder that when the Divine 9 gathers with purpose, the impact extends far beyond the table.