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On a transformative evening at Captain’s Quarters Riverside Grille, The WO Network: Women Leaders of Louisville hosted its First Annual Poppy Awards—an unforgettable celebration of women’s leadership, collaboration, and community impact. This inaugural event, held on the heels of The WO Network’s three-year anniversary, honored the remarkable achievements of women who embody the network’s values of collaboration over competition, authentic connection, and empowerment.
Inspiring Words and Transformative Moments
The evening was further elevated by keynote speaker Lin Schussler-Williams, whose talk on "9 Little Words" encouraged attendees to reflect on their beliefs, embrace their worth, and step into their full power.
Lakisha Morris, winner of the Community Leadership Award, shared a deeply personal reflection:"This moment was affirming in a way I can barely describe—affirming of my presence, my passion, and my purpose. It reminded me that even in the moments when I felt invisible, God and others saw me. Even in the seasons where I poured out more than I received, I was being filled up in ways I couldn’t yet understand."
Her words captured the spirit of the evening: a celebration of resilience, purpose, and the power of women supporting one another.
A Night of Healing and Celebration
From the moment guests arrived, the energy in the room was palpable. Women from diverse industries and backgrounds came together to celebrate their shared journeys of leadership, growth, and connection.
For many attendees, the event provided more than recognition—it was a deeply emotional and affirming experience. One attendee expressed:"This event was healing!"
Another shared:"It was so amazing seeing women truly celebrating women."
The atmosphere was filled with love, support, and genuine joy, creating a space where attendees felt seen, valued, and celebrated for their unique contributions.
Holly Hartman, co-founder of The WO Network, reflected:"When Izzy Nalley and I first met to dream up what would become The WO Network, we envisioned a community where women could rise together, support one another, and celebrate their successes. Thursday night brought that dream to life. The energy in the room was high-vibe, loving, and celebratory. Many women shared that it felt healing to be in a space so full of love and recognition."
Honoring Leadership and Collaboration
The Poppy Awards celebrated women across four key categories, recognizing exceptional achievements in collaboration, community leadership, small business innovation, and partnership.
🏆 Poppy Collaboration AwardWinner: Stacie Anderegg
Recognized for exemplifying the power of collaboration and creating meaningful change.
🏆 Community Leader AwardWinner: Lakisha Morris
Honored for her profound and lasting impact on her community.
🏆 Small Business AwardWinner: LaToya Bradley
Acknowledged for her innovation and dedication as an entrepreneur.
🏆 Poppy Business Partner AwardWinners: Amanda Dare and Jessica Nicole Celebrated for demonstrating the strength of partnership in driving success and growth.
A Community Rooted in Empowerment
The success of the Poppy Awards is a testament to the mission of The WO Network: to create a community where women leaders and entrepreneurs thrive together. For attendees, the event was not just a celebration—it was a powerful reminder of the strength that comes from connection and collaboration.
As Dre Overton, a nominee, described:"Tonight was about empowerment, collaboration, connection, growth, celebration, and so much more! I'm so grateful to have been nominated but even more grateful to be able to show up as myself and be accepted for exactly who I am."
The evening also served as a call to action, inviting more women to join this growing network and experience the profound impact of women supporting women.
Gratitude for Our Supporters
The evening would not have been possible without the generous support of event sponsors:
Michele Finn, Jubilee of Wellness
Ryan Daugherty Sharp, Sharp Esquire
A. Holland Houston, Family Law
Special thanks to Jolea Brown, whose stunning photography captured the magic of the evening.
Jessica Nicole, a Poppy Business Partner Award winner, summed it up perfectly:"So many inspiring women in one space is a feeling that is hard to put into words. Congratulations to all the nominees and winners—this is what happens when women come together to empower and uplift one another."
Looking Ahead
The First Annual Poppy Awards marks the beginning of a cherished tradition for The WO Network. This event highlighted the incredible achievements of its members while reaffirming the network’s mission to foster a community of empowerment, celebration, and connection.
With such a strong foundation, The WO Network is poised to continue its journey of growth and impact, creating spaces where women can thrive together.
To learn more about The WO Network or to join this dynamic community, visit www.thewonetwork.com/womember
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