These ladies are nothing short of extraordinary.
Schneps Media praised the borough’s most influential women entrepreneurs, business owners, and community leaders at its annual Power Women Awards and Networking Event at Grand Prospect Hall on March 14.
Each female honored showcased a passionate, uplifting commitment to what they do, according to the event’s host.
“These are glamorous women who each have a story to tell that has helped Brooklyn for the better,” said Schneps Media President and Publisher Victoria Schneps-Yunis. “They deserve to take their time walking down this red carpet — it’s their moment.”
The event’s newest honor, the Global Leadership Award, went to Elizabeth Melendez Fisher, the chief executive officer and co-founder of Selah Freedom, an organization that concentrates on ending sex trafficking and exploitation worldwide.
Proceeds from the evening’s raffle went to the Selah Way Foundation, which aids in the fight against sex trafficking.
“I am so honored to win this award among these influential women,” said Fisher. “I think this event is so important to honor and uplift the women changing lives in this community.”
This year’s Lifetime Achievement Award went to 96-year-old Sylvia Mariamoff. Better known as “the attitude lady,” Mariamoff is still giving back to her community by teaching Yiddish and hosting trivia classes two days a week at her local senior center. The honoree had some simple advice for aspiring power women.
“You can’t just stay in the house,” said the trailblazer from Sheepshead Bay. “It’s important for women to keep busy.”
Another honorable Brooklyn lady boss, Cloé Luv, is the chief executive officer of a non-profit, Brook Brovaz Development, an entrepreneur coach, and a music consultant. She also founded Women With Voices, a program that amplifies female stories and provides services to aid women.
“I’m a Brooklynite to the fullest,” said the East Flatbush native. “I could never live anywhere else — I’ve gone to many places, but Brooklyn culture is my soul.”
The awards shined as bright as the women receiving them — who will continue to inspire the community until next year’s festivities.
The organizers also recognized the sponsors (see opposite page) who made the gala possible: Dime Community Bank, MetroPlus Health Plan, SUNY Downstate, The Avondale Care Group, the firm of Schpoont and Cavallo, JP Morgan Chase, Broadway Stages, DMV Service Centers / JSA Tags Inc., Flushing Bank, Northwell Health, and Inwood Country Club.
