Flint, Mich. — The 5th Annual Women in Power (WIP) Summit Awards Luncheon presented by Pick A Place and Start (P.A.P.A.S), a 501c3 community development corporation, was held in August at the COFY Center in Flint, MI. This year’s summit was themed, “A Healthier You!” The goal of the WIP Summit is to empower and connect women and teenage girls ages 13 and up providing a learning experience that will allow them to network, share and grow personally, spiritually and professionally – mind, body and soul.
“Life has a way of trying to dull the brilliance inside all of us,” said, Summit Founder and P.A.P.A.S. Vice President of Operations Dr. Tonya C. Bailey. “Through interactive workshops, dynamic presentations and inspiring activities, this Summit exposes women and young girls to resources and prepares attendees to thrive not just survive in their personal dreams, aspirations and goals.”
Fourteen prominent businesswomen and community leaders were honored during the two-day summit at the Annual Awards Luncheon. The 2019 WIP Honorees included: Lennetta Coney, Paula Cunningham, Dr. Carolyn Davis, Flint City Councilwoman Monica Galloway, Verlin Hamlett, Bishop Bernadel Jefferson, Apostle Ruby Johnson, Julie Lopez, Veronica Meadows, Judy Miller, Dr. Mary Jo Sekelsky, Denise Steele, Crystal Williams and Janice Williams. The guest speaker for the luncheon was the Honorable Judge Shannon A. Holmes from 36th District Court in Detroit who also encouraged women to stand up and take their rightful places in the community.
Throughout the two-day summit activities included: Annual White Party, Women Vendors’ Expo, Summit Workshops, and Panel Discussions focusing on Human Trafficking & Sexual Assault, as well as, Etiquette, Self-Esteem, and Leadership for Teen Girls. The guest speaker was Dr. Toni Glasscoe, Associate VP, Lansing Community College.
P.A.P.A.S. is dedicated to youth development and the cultural and economic revitalization of the City of Flint and Genesee County. Dr. Bailey says, “We believe our City can thrive if we all simply, Pick A Place and Start.” The P.A.P.A.S. Community Development Corporation has various programs, events and workshops throughout the year. To learn more about the organization, to donate or to get involved, visit www.papascdc.org.
