Nine Amazing Women Honored At The GWC Gala

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The Gwinnett Women’s Chamber of Commerce (GWC) celebrated a milestone last night with its 1st Annual Awards & Gala, marking one year since its inception by visionary founders Audrey Bell-Kearney and Georgette Taylor. The event was not just a celebration of the chamber’s anniversary but also a tribute to the remarkable women who embody the spirit and mission of the GWC. The GWC Gala was a green affair.

The evening was filled with emotions as nine of the eleven outstanding women were honored with the Soaring Woman Award, each exemplifying leadership, compassion, and innovation in their respective fields. Among the awardees were Pastor Barbara Green, recipient of the prestigious Gwinnett Women’s Chamber’s 2024 Do Gooder Award for her unwavering commitment to helping people in times of disaster. Dr. Jean Hudley was also honored with the Do Gooder Award for her dedication to supporting youth through the organization Boys2Men, Girls To Win.

Bridget Hayes received the Gwinnett Women’s Chamber’s 2024 Healing Hands Award for her work as a massage therapist, life strategist, and healer. Eboni Caldwell was celebrated with the 2024 Spirit Award, while Victoria Walker was recognized with the She Leads Tech Award for her contributions to the technology sector. Catherine Hardrick received the Behind The Mic Award for her excellence in communication and media.

The awards also highlighted the importance of partnership and collaboration in driving economic development and innovation. Shantell Wilson was named the 2024 Economic Development Partner of the Year, and Nashlee Young and Atlanta Tech Park were honored as the Corporate Partner of the Year. Dr. Teresa Carthron was celebrated as the 2024 Chairwoman of the Year, acknowledging her leadership and contributions to the chamber’s success.

The gala also marked the launch of the GWC Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to advancing the GWC Green Footprint Initiative. This initiative focuses on promoting sustainable living and business practices, including educational forums and support for elderly residents to transition to LED lighting, reducing both their carbon footprint and electric bills.

Audrey and Georgette announced the exciting launch of Georgia’s first-ever Green Tech Business Incubator, aimed at empowering more women to start businesses in the sustainable industry and create jobs that contribute to community economic development.

The night concluded with the introduction of the Warrior Women Pathway initiative, a program dedicated to supporting women veterans through resources for mental health, career development, and entrepreneurship.

As the gala came to a close, the air was filled with a sense of accomplishment and anticipation for the future. Audrey and Georgette’s vision for the Gwinnett Women’s Chamber of Commerce has set a strong foundation for empowering women in business and fostering a culture of sustainability. With their forward-thinking initiatives and unwavering commitment, the GWC is poised for even greater success in the years to come, and the community eagerly awaits the 2025 Annual Gala.