Opening Remarks
Antonio Reynoso
Brooklyn Borough President
Women Who Influence Presents
THE POWER SEAT
How Small Businesses Are Moving New York Forward
OCTOBER 22, 2026 · 10:00 AM–3:00 PM · BROOKLYN BOROUGH HALL
The Power Seat
Leadership in direct conversation with community.
Small businesses move neighborhoods, create jobs, and shape New York’s future. The Power Seat brings the people building those businesses into the same room with the institutions positioned to help them grow.
Designed by Women Who Influence, this signature leadership conversation connects entrepreneurs with government, financial institutions, corporate leaders, resource providers, and community partners. Together, we will explore the realities facing small businesses and the relationships, resources, capital, and opportunities needed to move New York forward.
Featured Voices
Leaders Moving New York Forward.
Special Remarks
Jeanny Pak
New York City Economic Development Corporation
The Leadership Conversation
The Power Seat Panel
Moderator
Jodi BrockingtonFounder & Principal, Niara Consulting
Delia AwusiNYC Mom-and-Pop Czar
Sherri LaneAssistant Commissioner, Capital Access & Business Programs
Tammeca RochesterFounder, Harlem Cycle
Ka-Wana JeffersonOwner, Sweet Catch BK & Co-owner, Lost Borough Ice Cream
Jessica SpauldingFounder & CEO, Harlem Chocolate Factory
October 22, 2026
Agenda
10:00–10:50 AM
Arrival & Networking
Registration, coffee and refreshments, networking, media check-in, and step-and-repeat.
10:50–10:55 AM
Welcome Remarks
Gabrieline Reece, Founder & Executive Director, Women Who Influence.
10:55–11:00 AM
Opening Remarks
Antonio Reynoso, Brooklyn Borough President.
11:00–11:20 AM
Special Remarks
Jeanny Pak, New York City Economic Development Corporation.
11:20–11:50 AM
Networking & Refreshments
Connect with entrepreneurs, community leaders, institutions, and resource partners.
12:00–12:30 PM
The Power Seat
A moderated leadership conversation on how small businesses are moving New York forward.
12:30–1:10 PM
Pink Apple Award Presentations
Honoree recognition and acceptance remarks.
1:10–1:15 PM
Closing Remarks
Gabrieline Reece, Founder & Executive Director, Women Who Influence.
Honoring Leaders · Celebrating Impact
2026 Pink Apple Awards Honorees
Event Emcee
Monique GloverFounder & Creative Director, ZYEM NYC
Pamela MorganCo-Chair, NGO CSW/NY
Dr. Erica FordFounder & CEO, LIFE Camp
Kanchana SugguSVP & Chief Impact Officer, United Way of New York City
Cynthia HornerCEO & Publisher, Right On! Magazine
Community & Institutional Supporters
Building Opportunity Together.
Office of Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso · PNC Bank · NYCEDC · United Way of New York City · NYC Small Business Services · Bronx Economic Development Corporation · Queens Chamber of Commerce · NYC 211
You’re Invited
Take Your Seat.
Join entrepreneurs, executives, public officials, financial institutions, nonprofit leaders, and community changemakers at Brooklyn Borough Hall.
Register for The Power Seat
Explore Partnership
Registration is required. Business attire.