Los Angeles top social entrepreneurs and executives were honored at BMW’s “Women Who Pay It 4Ward Honors” Brunch at STK.
Women in LA on the rise gathered to honor local entrepreneurs at STK Los Angeles at an invite-only event co-hosted by MADE Magazine. The weekends brunch recognized four LA-based women who are making exceptional contributions to their fields and surrounding communities.
Carmelita Jeter: An inspiration on and off the track. Jeter is an American sprinter with three Olympic medals and a world record. She has kept her promise to her family and community by serving as a spokesperson for Breast Cancer, Health & Fitness, and Youth Education Initiatives.
Kalika Yap: This Santa Monica-based serial entrepreneur is founder of Citrus Studios, Luxe Link, the Tangerine Co., the Lemonade Stand, and The Waxing Company. But, giving back to the community is what Yap is most proud of. As a mother, she devotes a large portion of her time to volunteering at her daughters’ schools. Yap is a trustee of the Pacific Asia Museum in Pasadena, California, and member of the Entrepreneur’s Organization.
Helen Torres: As Executive Director of Hispanas Organized for Political Equality (HOPE), Torres’ supervision and management have helped HOPE grow into one of the leading women’s leadership and advocacy organizations in California and the U.S. With more than 25 years of alliance building, community relations, marketing, and fundraising experience, her focus is promoting opportunities that advance Latinas.
Paulina Lopez-Velazquez: Lopez-Velazquez and her sister launched “Super Mamas Podcast” as a judgment-free space where mothers can exchange knowledge and support one another. Today, Lopez-Velazquez is co-producer of the Super Mamas Social festival, and a member of the Board of Directors of City Charter Schools.
Entertainment Host and Author, Robin Ayers emceed for the afternoon. Upbeat R&B and Pop tracks set the tone of the luxurious event as guests sipped on mimosas and networked.
Before honorees took the mic, guests were offered the chance to “Drive for a Cause”. BMW brought several of their latest 4 Series models for guests to test-drive. Upbeat pop tracks by DJ Lille B set the mood for the empowerment event as guests sipped mimosas and enjoyed brunch hors d’oeuvres including delicious bites of shrimp and grits and chicken and waffles prepared by STK.
Kevin Williams Head of Multicultural Marketing at BMW Group USA kicked off the program by sharing a heartfelt story of his mother’s strength in his family. He went on to share the Pay It 4ward program’s inception and connection to BMW’s 4 series. He recognized Kris Williams, publisher of MADE Magazine and Solana Claudio-Albarran Account Manager of Octagon for their hard work with the execution of the multi-city program. Kevin Williams presented a check made out to nonprofit, Step Up that was matched by honoree and winning athlete Carmelita Jeter proving just what women can do when they come together.
The program ended with networking and a token of appreciation for guests including a bag Chicago French Press Coffee, BMW metal water bottles and a copy of the latest issue of MADE Magazine featuring radio host and New York Time’s best selling author, Charlamagne tha God.
Special Invited guests were Ericka Pittman, SVP of Aqua-Hydrate and Mitzi Miller, Head of Development at Rainforest Films.
Leave A Reply