Opening Remarks
Women Who Influence Presents
THE POWER SEAT
How Small Businesses Are Moving New York Forward
OCTOBER 22, 2026 · 10:00 AM–3:30 PM · BROOKLYN BOROUGH HALL
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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 CorporationThe Leadership Conversation
The Power Seat Panel
Moderator
Jodi BrockingtonFounder & Principal, Niara Consulting
Delia AwusiNYC Mom-and-Pop Czar
Kitty ChanDeputy Commissioner, NYC Department of Small Business Services
JaQuitta RobinsonFounder, Master PMU Artist and Trainer, Pretty In Pink Brow and Beauty Bar
Ka-Wana JeffersonOwner, Sweet Catch BK & Co-owner, Lost Borough Ice Cream
Jessica SpauldingFounder & CEO, Harlem Chocolate Factory
Honoring Leaders · Celebrating Impact
2026 Pink Apple Awards Honorees
Event Emcee
Monique GloverFounder & Creative Director, ZYEM NYC
Pamela MorganCrystal Apple Award for Global LeadershipCo-Chair, NGO CSW/NY
Dr. Erica FordCrystal Apple Legacy AwardFounder & CEO, LIFE Camp
Kanchana SugguCrystal Apple Award for Community Impact & Economic EmpowermentSVP & Chief Impact Officer, United Way of New York City
Cynthia HornerCrystal Apple Award for Cultural ImpactCEO & Publisher, Right On! Magazine
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.1:15–3:30 PM
Networking Reception: Continue the Conversation
Continue networking, photographs, partner connections, and guest engagement. Sponsored by PNC Bank.Community & Institutional Supporters
Building Opportunity Together.
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 PartnershipRegistration is required. Business attire.