The Power Seat at the 2026 Pink Apple Awards
About this Event
THE POWER SEAT AT THE 2026 PINK APPLE AWARDS
How Small Businesses Are Moving New York Forward
Join Women Who Influence at historic Brooklyn Borough Hall for a signature leadership conversation and awards experience centered on entrepreneurship, economic opportunity, community impact, and connection.
THE POWER SEAT
At the heart of the day is The Power Seat, Women Who Influence’s signature leadership and economic-opportunity conversation. Small-business owners will hear directly from leaders in government, entrepreneurship, economic development, finance, and community development about the opportunities and barriers shaping business growth across New York.
The discussion will explore access to capital, government contracting, M/WBE certification, institutional relationships, business resources, visibility, sustainable growth, and the partnerships needed to help entrepreneurs move forward.
SPECIAL REMARKS
Antonio Reynoso — Brooklyn Borough President
Jeanny Pak
POWER SEAT MODERATOR
Jodi Brockington — Founder and Principal, Niara Consulting
POWER SEAT PANELISTS
Delia Awusi — New York City Mom-and-Pop Business Czar
Sherri Lane — Assistant Commissioner for Capital Access and Business Programs, NYC Department of Small Business Services
Tammeca Rochester — Founder and CEO, Harlem Cycle
Ka-Wana Jefferson — Owner, Sweet Catch BK and Co-Owner, Lost Borough Ice Cream
Jessica Spaulding — Founder and CEO, Harlem Chocolate Factory
THE PINK APPLE AWARDS
The experience continues with the 2026 Pink Apple and Crystal Apple Awards, recognizing women whose leadership, vision, entrepreneurship, service, and cultural impact are moving New York forward.
2026 HONOREES
Pamela Morgan — Crystal Apple Award for Global Leadership
Dr. Erica Ford — Leadership in violence prevention, youth empowerment, and community transformation
Kanchana Suggu — Crystal Apple Award for Community Impact and Economic Empowerment
Cynthia Horner — Leadership and lasting impact in media and culture
WHAT TO EXPECT
Pink Carpet arrival
Coffee and light refreshments
Community Partner & Resource Showcase
Special remarks from civic and economic-development leaders
The Power Seat leadership conversation
Pink Apple and Crystal Apple Awards ceremony
Hosted reception and executive networking experience
Media and interview opportunities
COMMUNITY SUPPORTERS
Office of Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso
PNC Bank
New York City Economic Development Corporation
United Way of New York City
211 New York
New York City Department of Small Business Services
Bronx Economic Development Corporation
Queens Chamber of Commerce
Whether you are looking to expand your network, discover business resources, build institutional relationships, celebrate remarkable leaders, or leave inspired, this is a space where meaningful connections begin and ideas move into action.
Attire: Business
Admission: Registration required
Agenda
🕑: 10:00 AM - 10:50 AM
Arrival & Networking
Info: Registration, coffee and refreshments, networking, media check-in, and step-and-repeat.
🕑: 10:50 AM - 10:55 AM
Welcome Remarks
Info: Gabrieline Reece, Founder & Executive Director, Women Who Influence.
🕑: 10:55 AM - 11:00 AM
Opening Remarks
Info: Antonio Reynoso, Brooklyn Borough President.
🕑: 11:00 AM - 11:20 AM
Special Remarks
Info: Jeanny Pak, New York City Economic Development Corporation.
🕑: 11:20 AM - 11:50 AM
Networking & Refreshments
Info: Connect with entrepreneurs, community leaders, institutions, and resource partners.
🕑: 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM
The Power Seat
Info: A moderated leadership conversation on how small businesses are moving New York forward.
🕑: 12:30 PM - 01:10 PM
Pink Apple Award Presentations
Info: Honoree recognition and acceptance remarks.
🕑: 01:10 PM - 01:15 PM
Closing Remarks
Info: Gabrieline Reece, Founder & Executive Director, Women Who Influence.
🕑: 01:15 PM - 03:30 PM
Networking Reception: Continue the Conversation
Info: Continue networking, photographs, partner connections, and guest engagement. Sponsored by PNC Bank.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00
