The National Association of Women Business Owners Los Angeles
Founded in 1975, the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) is the voice of America’s 10.1 million women-owned businesses and is the only dues-based national organization representing the interests of all women entrepreneurs across all industries. Along with numerous networking events and opportunities, awards ceremonies, and members-only benefits, NAWBOLA offers it’s members a place to call home in this crazy world of business.
Last Friday, I had the honor of attending NAWBOLA’s 30th annual Leadership and Legacy Luncheon. As a new member to NAWBO, I felt like a tiny fish cast suddenly into a very large pond. This event, taking place at the grand JW Marriot at LA Live’s Diamond Ballroom was exciting just to think about. I arrived alone with my camera and a stack of business cards, ready to network with this group of powerful businesswomen.
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This year’s honorees were:
- INNOVATOR – Jess Weiner, CEO/Founder of Talk to Jess
- RISING STAR – Michele Ruiz, President and CEO of Ruiz Strategies
- INSPIRATION – Hanna Lim, Co-Founder and President of Lollaland
- ENTREPRENEUR – Sally Thomas Cooper, Founder of Lusive Décor, Luxe Light and Home and Thomas Cooper Studio
- DIVERSITY CHAMPION – Phillip A. Washington, CEO of Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority
- LEADERSHIP – Jane A. Skeeter, Founder/CEO of UltraGlas, Inc.
- LEADERSHIP – Madelyn Alfano, Owner & President of Maria’s Italian Kitchen
- COMMUNITY LEADER – Betsy Butler, Executive Director of the California Women’s Law Center
The food was delicious, the presentation stunning. The opportunities endless! Each of these women had her own unique and compelling story to tell. Spanning an impressive range of age groups and ethnic backgrounds, this event was engaging, educational, and most of all, fun! By the end of the night, I had met several women who are now part of my professional network and who work to empower our new generation of young ladies.
Entering the business world as a young woman can be a bit terrifying, but the gals at NAWBOLA have got your back. Find out more about NAWBOLA events for members and nonmembers!
