Community

WE MADE HOSTS 3RD ANNUAL FUNDRAISER TO COMMEMORATE WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH IN CHICAGO

Bri

April 5, 2025

Concluding Women’s History Month, Co-Founders Briahna Gatlin and Carol Johnson had an idea to highlight the women who are unsung heroes within their industry. From Community to Real Estate, Hospitality, Media, or Politics, WEMADE is about the impact of women making a difference within their respective careers and communities. WEMADE brings together women who have displayed exceptional benchmarks throughout their careers and have evolved as giants within their industry.

On Friday, March 28, the 3rd Annual WEMADE Honors Celebration was held at the Garfield Park Conservatory. Thirty-three women who have evolved in their industries and changed the tide in their way were honored at the fundraiser. The honorees included Aris Singleton (TGIN), Martine Caver (Executive Director of Umjimaa Medics), Pamela Price (Director of Parent University & Community Engagement), Resa B. Luster-Mac (Brand Manager at Large, Luster Products Inc), Sheila Rashid (Design & Creative Director of Sheila Rashid Brand), D’elegance Lane (CEO & Founder of A Beautiful Tech LLC & InspireTheNXT) and more. Three special awards were given to Maven In The Making Award (women under 30) and MADE Maven (2), who have evolved as giants within their industry.

Hosted by WGCI Radio Personality Bree Specific, this annual fundraiser helps build community, business, and media relationships to inspire women entrepreneurs, business executives, creatives, community leaders, and the next generation. This event included a silent auction, raffle giveaways, a photo booth, DJ EvieTheCool and Love Day sounds, and amazing live performances. Fox TV show Next Level Chef, Chef Brandon, crafted delicious tastings and food from Beyond Catering.

John Walt Foundation, Wanabrands, and Tequila 1349 (a Latina women-owned liquor brand) were partners for this event.

Honoree List:

WEMADE 2025 MAVEN AWARD

Ellen Schumer

Resa Luster- Mac

MAVEN IN THE MAKING

Raven Hibbler

WEMADE HONOREES

Ashlee Bankz

Crystal Dryer

Angela Taylor

Latonya Capers