On November 14, The LA Times Studios transformed LA into a hub of innovation, leadership and empowerment with the Inspirational Women Forum & Leadership Awards, presented by City National Bank. This electrifying event celebrated the remarkable achievements of women who are redefining the future of business, community and culture in Southern California.
The day began with a warm welcome from Anna Magzanyan, president of LA Times Studios, setting the tone for dynamic panel discussions and the evening’s prestigious awards ceremony. The forum served as a platform for exchanging ideas, building networks and celebrating resilience, featuring thought-provoking conversations on topics like longevity, the economy, breaking barriers and professional risk-taking.
Spotlight on Innovation and Growth
Panel Discussions
The daytime panel discussions illuminated groundbreaking strategies and personal journeys from industry leaders:
- “The Pathway to Longevity†featured insights from Miranda Kerr (KORA Organics), Dr. Yasmeen Nkrumah-Elie (ChromaDex), and Lauren Antion (Intrepid Investment Bankers), breaking down wellness myths and sharing tools for longevity-focused success.
- “The Risk of Being Risk Averseâ€, moderated by financial analyst Barbara Stewart, empowered women to embrace calculated risks, with expert advice from Amber Ortiz (City National Bank), Lara Shortz (Michelman & Robinson LLP), and Angela Sutherland (Yumi).
- “The Dynamic Edge and the New Economyâ€, led by Kristen Berke (L.A. Times Studios), delved into agility in business with panelists Nicole Auyang (City National Bank), Teni Panosian (Monday Born), and Loren Castle (Sweet Loren’s).
- “Breaking Through Barriers†highlighted marketing leaders like Narine Galstian (SADA), Laura McHolm (NorthStar Moving), and Andrea Bras (Viant Technology), exploring innovative strategies in competitive industries.
- “The Power of Resiliency†showcased personal triumphs from Elizabeth English (Archer School for Girls), Carol Hamilton (L’Oréal), Araksiya Nadjarian (ConnectTo Communications), and Elise Buik (United Way of Greater Los Angeles).
A Powerful Discussion on Finance
Attendees were treated to an engaging and enlightening fireside chat between Anna Magzanyan, president of LA Times Studios and Mellody Hobson, Co-CEO of Ariel Investments and author of the children’s book “Priceless Facts About Money.†Sharing both her personal journey and her advocacy for financial literacy, she inspired attendees with a funny, frank and deeply meaningful conversation about how financial education can start as early as possible and continue throughout all of our lives.
Celebrating Outstanding Leaders
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1. Carol Hamilton, Consumer Goods & Retail Honoree 2. Pearleana Igbokwe, Entertainment Honoree with Verna Grayce Chao 3. Josie Leinart, Rising Star Honoree with Gloria Dominguez 4. Rea Ann Silva, Founder / Entrepreneur Honoree
The awards ceremony was the evening’s crowning moment, honoring over 300 nominees and recognizing trailblazers across ten categories, including:
- Rising Star: Josie Leinart (Munck Wilson Mandala)
- Education/Nonprofit/Government: Ana Valdez (Latino Donor Collaborative)
- Entertainment: Pearlena Igbokwe (Universal Studio Group)
- Entrepreneur of the Year: Rea Ann Silva (Beautyblender)
- Consumer Goods: Carol Hamilton (L’Oreal)
- Real Estate/Construction: Gina Chang (CO Architects)
- Healthcare/Lifesciences: Dr. Kavitha Bhatia (Prime Healthcare)
- Professional Services: Esther Cho (Stradley Ronon Stevens & Young)
- Financial Services: Jade Tran (Banc of California)
- Technology & Software: Kim Crawford Goodman (Smarsh)
This extraordinary event could not have been possible by its generous sponsors, who share the mission of empowering women:
- Presenting Sponsor: City National Bank
- Diamond Sponsors: Ascend Agency, K1 Investment Management, LaCroix, Phonexa
- Platinum Sponsors: Archer, ConnectTo, DnaNudge, Intrepid, J’Adore Le Fleurs, Michelman & Robinson LLP, United Way of Greater Los Angeles
- Gold Sponsors: Banc of California, Judicate West, Kirkland & Ellis LLP
The Inspirational Women Forum & Leadership Awards is more than an event – it’s a movement. By honoring women leaders, it inspires all attendees to pursue innovation, collaboration and meaningful change. As the evening concluded, the community left united in a shared vision of progress, celebrating the accomplishments of today while building hope for tomorrow.
Mark your calendars for December 15 for the Inspirational Women magazine drop. It’s where innovation meets inspiration!
Congratulations 2024 Nominees
Watch the video below or see who made the list.
PRESENTING SPONSOR
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PLATINUM SPONSORS
GOLD SPONSORS
Last Year’s Event
