Congresswoman Maxine Waters to keynote 2017 Phenomenal Woman Awards, kicko‘ to Black Women’s Expo

Congresswoman Maxine Waters
Congresswoman Maxine Waters

Congresswoman Maxine Waters to keynote 2017 Phenomenal Woman Awards, kicko‘ to Black Women’s Expo

(CHICAGO) - Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-CA), will keynote the Phenomenal Woman Awards Dinner on Thursday, April 6, paying tribute to ten outstanding Chicago area women whose excellence in a variety of fields commands recognition. The event is the kickoff to The Black Women’s Expo (BWE), one of Chicago’s most anticipated annual experiential events, and will be held at the Hyatt Regency Chicago, 151 E. Wacker Dr., Crystal Ballroom beginning at 6:00 p.m.

Congresswoman Waters, who represents California’s 43rd District, is considered by many to be one of the

most powerful women in American politics today. She has gained a reputation as a fearless and outspoken

advocate for women, children, people of color and the poor. First elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in

1990, Congresswoman Waters represents a large swath of South Central Los Angeles. She serves as the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Financial Services, and

is an integral member of Congressional Democratic

Leadership. Congresswoman Waters serves as a member of the Steering & Policy Committee, and is also a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus and member and past chair of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC).

The 2017 Phenomenal Woman honorees are: MBIB Determination is Power Award - Jerline Lambert, Lambert’s Realty; MBIB Fearless Leader Award – Jolinda Wade, New Creation Binding & loosing Ministries; MBIB Catalyst Award – Diane Latiker, Kids Off The Block; MBIB Inspire the Youth Award – Cosette Yisrael, LUV Institute; MBIB Knowledge is Power Award – Lisa Rollins, UNCF; My Beautiful is Igniting Change for Greatness Award– Barbara Bates, The Barbara Bates Foundation; Woman of Valor Award –Lori E.

Lightfoot, President, Chicago Police Board; MBIB Luminary Award – Rona Fourte, Walgreens; Vanguard of Health Award, Debra Vines, The Answer, Inc.; Launa T. Thompson Spirit Award – Toi Salter, Salter Financial Management.

“The Phenomenal Woman Awards allow us to showcase women in our community who are leading in a manner that makes us all proud,” says Merry Green, founder of the event. “The Black Women’s Expo is about celebrating the strength, savvy and significance of African American women.” We are particularly excited to have My Black is Beautiful serve as a presenting sponsor of this year’s Expo, and join us at the

Phenomenal Woman Awards.”

“Since its inception a decade ago, My Black is Beautiful has provided a powerful platform for African American change within their communities and work to redefine beauty standards,” says Verna Coleman-Hagler, Brand Manager of My Black Is Beautiful. “We’re honored to support this special evening and shine a deserving spotlight on each of the award recipients whose achievements are leaving an indelible mark

on our society.”

The Black Women’s Expo o¨ers African American women an opportunity to get informed, empowered and enlightened, while discovering the latest trends and amazing new products and services specifically created for them celebrates its 23rd anniversary in Chicago April 7-9 at McCormick Place. The Black

Women’s Expo has continued to grow in Chicago, and is now the longest running exposition of its kind. Over 30,000 people, from 14 surrounding states, are expected to attend the expo during its three-day run at the McCormick Place Convention Center. For the second year in a row, the BWe will conduct a national tour with stops in Washington, D.C. and Atlanta, Georgia. The rich cultural experience, while targeted to women, has elements for men, families and children.

The BWE o¨ers informative seminars and panel discussions presented by notable local and national speakers and lecturers, educational exhibits and corporate displays, and rousing entertainment. Historically, the standing-room only seminars have addressed such issues as health & wellness, racial equality, hair & beauty, travel, career advancement, business/entrepreneurship, the welfare of our children and much more.

BWE’s seminars and workshops will be far-ranging and engaging, featuring topics that impact women’s daily lives. Additionally, there will be a Town Hall Meeting with key local

and state political leaders, and a Teen Summit addressing issues

pertinent to African American youth.

BWE will again host themed pavilions including: The Literary Café, which showcases African American authors and booksellers; the Natural Hair Pavilion, featuring products specifically for natural hair; the Health & Wellness pavilion, where local medical institutions provide much-needed health information and

screenings; the Kidz Korner, an exciting space for young people with interactive games, exercise and fun activities; an Art Pavilion curated by noted artist Jonathon Romain. New this year, BWe

will host a Culinary Pavilion, where local and national chefs will showcase their cuisine, and a Networking Lounge.

Expo hours are Friday, April 7 from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.; Saturday, April 8, from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.; and Sunday, April 9 from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Ticket prices are $20 for adults, $6 for children, and $5 for the BWe Teen Summit with promo code; weekend passes are available for $45. Tickets for

The Black Women’s Expo can be purchased online at www. theblackwomensexpo.com . Half-priced, advanced adult tickets are on sale at participating Walgreens stores. For information or tickets

for the Phenomenal Woman Awards Reception, call 312-454- 6100.

BWE Phenomenal Woman Awards. Follow The Black Women’s Expo on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram using the hashtag #SheMatters.

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