Leadership Awards
Women leader’s creating impact in their communities
We believe that every woman can be a leader no matter their age, role, job, or industry. We amplify the voices and work of women leaders who are striving to build a more just, inclusive, and representative democracy. We celebrate women leaders because we know the work is hard and often without immediate reward.
Our Awards
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A woman leader at the start of their leadership journey who is already positively influencing and inspiring those around them. With a genuine desire to make a difference, this emerging leader is igniting hope and paving the way for a more equitable future.
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A woman leader who comes from a nontraditional background or career path and, through their initiative and impactful actions, exemplifies our motto that you lead where you land. These trailblazers inspire others to step up and make a difference, regardless of their starting point, background, or perceived limitations.
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A woman who personifies the power, resilience, and unwavering determination of women's leadership in building a representative and equitable future in democratic societies.
Our 2024 Leadership Award Winners
Join us in celebrating and hearing from each of these amazing women at our Igniting Hope Gala on December, 7.
Emerging Women Leader
Leadership (Re)Defined
Women of the Year
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Naoko Inoue Shatz
Naoko was born, raised, educated, and worked as a career woman in Japan, but decided to attend graduate and law school in the U.S. to learn how to promote and protect working women’s rights.
She currently holds a license to practice law in Washington State and New York State. After working for large law firms in Seattle, Naoko established her own firm about 15 years ago and has assisted numerous clients in their corporate, employment and litigation needs.
In addition to her primary practice, she has assisted interracial married couples with citizens of two countries who go through divorce proceedings in Washington State and New York State, which includes issues of domestic violence, jurisdiction and the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspect of International Child Abduction.
This additional practice led Naoko to co-found a non-profit organization, International Families Justice Coalition (IFJC) with Judge Anthony Gipe in 2017. IFJC assists indigent immigrants who are selected based on the Federal Poverty Guidelines with their legal needs.
A supplemental funding bill for IFJC was passed with overwhelming support from the Washington State Legislators in 2018. Naoko is actively involved in the operation of the IFJC and training pro bono attorneys to promote the missions IFJC pursues.
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Dar’Nesha Bowman
Dar’Nesha is a Seattle native with over two decades of nonprofit experience. As the Chief Executive Officer of Black Coffee Northwest, she’s brewing up more than just lattes – it's a revolution!
Dar’Nesha's journey began as the Program Director at the Greenwood Boys and Girls Club, and she swiftly climbed the ranks at the YMCA. From Dale Turner Branch Membership Engagement Director to Program Executive of Membership, she has consistently prioritized community engagement.
When she's not leading in the coffee industry, Dar’Nesha serves as the Founder and Director of the award-winning Northside Step Team, which notably performed with LIZZO on a sisterhood project.
A proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Dar’Nesha is a dedicated community advocate. Her accolades include being named Seattle Magazine Changemaker of the Year, Alignable Business Woman of the Year, and Washington Women Creating Change in 2021.
In her spare time, she champions diversity, equity, and inclusion, making a significant impact in the greater Seattle area – where coffee meets community, and every sip is a step towards positive change.
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Mindy Uber
Mindy Uber is the Regional VP of Environmental Health and Safety at Skanska, where she has worked for over 17 years.
There she has championed gender-specific protective gear for women in construction and advocated for inclusive safety standards, shaping a more equitable and inclusive industry.
Last year Mindy was appointed by Acting U.S. Secretary of Labor Julie A. Su to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration Advisory Committee on Construction Safety and Health, where she provides advice and assistance in federal construction standards and policy matters.