Lauren Brazile, right, presents awards to young entrepreneurs. (E. Mesiyah McGinnis/L.A. Sentinel) 

On the evening of March 19, 2024, the inaugural Women with Vision Leadership Conference and Awards Ceremony illuminated amazing women in a powerful celebration of female leadership and entrepreneurship.

Spearheaded by We Grow LA President and CEO Lauren Brazile in collaboration with Chase Bank, choreographer Storm DeBarge, and fashion designer Philipa Imani, the event heralded a new era of support and recognition for local women of color in business.

The conference provided a safe space for local women-minority business owners and executives to come together, sparking collaboration, learning, and growth. From insightful workshops on teamwork and business credit to inspiring panel discussions, attendees were empowered to elevate their professional endeavors and realize their full potential.

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Among the highlights of the evening was the presence of premier vendors Heads of Nature presenting her artistic creations of exotic potted plants decorated with sculpters of beautiful Black women, wearing Afrocentric headwraps.  Philipa Imani also brought out her PI Tye Dye station, where each of the women customized their own tye dye t-shirt to take home.

Many people attended the Vision Leadership Conference and Awards Ceremony. (E. Mesiyah McGinnis/L.A. Sentinel)

The panel discussion moderated by DeBarge featured distinguished guests including media personality Gina Views, Lindsey Heisser from Snapchat, and Kira Nashid, founder of the Amal Center. Their collective wisdom and experiences offered invaluable insights into navigating the complexities of modern business landscapes.

A crowning moment of the event was the recognition of outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to their communities and industries. Award recipients included Lisa Dixon, Tatiana Roberts, Philipa Imani, Sinclaire Tabor, Storm DeBarge, Dayana Hernandez, Felicia Usher S. Bailey, and the esteemed Paula Brazile, mother of We Grow LA founder, Lauren Brazile.

“As the curtains close on this momentous occasion, We Grow LA looks forward to continuing its mission of empowerment and advocacy for women across Los Angeles,” said Brazile, who dedicated the event to her mother and thanked her supporters.

“With a promise of more transformative initiatives on the horizon, the organization remains committed to fostering a culture of support, resilience, and success for all women with vision. Stay tuned for the next chapter in our journey and towards a more inclusive and equitable future.”

To learn more, please visit Wegrowla.com and follow @wegrowla on Instagram.

Staff Writer/Photographer E. Mesiyah McGinnis contributed to this story.