SICC Partners with Councilmember Hanks for Women’s Expo
On Saturday, March 28, hundreds gathered at the Hilton Garden Inn for the Fifth Annual Women in Business Expo, hosted by Councilmember Kamillah Hanks in partnership with the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce and State Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton.
The event featured networking, panels, and a marketplace of local women-owned businesses.
Keynote speaker Julie Menin, Speaker of the New York City Council, shared her journey from small business owner to public servant following the impact of 9/11, emphasizing resilience and leadership. The event underscored the vital role women play in the economy and reinforced ongoing efforts to support their success.
A panel discussion - moderated by Chamber President and CEO Linda Baran - hosted Mole Poblano Asuncion Corporation owner Canny Rojas, her sister Sally, SIEDC Senior Vice President President Gina Gutman, and Sunny Side Up Birth Co. owner Christine Jackson. Speakers highlighted both progress and ongoing challenges for women in business, including pay equity and balancing work and family responsibilities.
Three women also received Women in Business Leadership Awards: Linda Huff (Help For The Helpless), Fran Reali (Safari Realty), and Alycia Campbell (Urban Fairies of Staten Island).
Photos courtesy of Steve White, Staten Island Arts Photography
