By By Irina Perry
The Power of 13: Women Who Light the Way
An evening of elegance, inspiration, and empowerment filled the ballroom at the Renaissance Columbus Westerville-Polaris Hotel as the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. Central Ohio Chapter hosted its sold-out signature event, “The Power of 13: Women Who Light the Way,” during the organization’s 13th Annual Trailblazer Honors on Thursday, May 21, 2026.
The highly anticipated evening brought together influential leaders, elected officials, entrepreneurs, students, advocates, and community supporters from throughout Central Ohio to celebrate women whose leadership and service continue transforming communities across the region.
Founded in September 2011, the Central Ohio Chapter was chartered by 35 African American women representing Delaware, Fairfield, Franklin, and Licking counties who believed deeply in the mission of the organization. Throughout the evening, guests reflected on the chapter’s continued growth and impact in the areas of leadership development, education, advocacy, economic empowerment, and mentorship.
The event opened with a powerful invocation delivered by Chaplain Thai’Shann Fain, setting an uplifting and inspirational tone for the evening. Guests were then welcomed into a program highlighting sisterhood, advocacy, achievement, and service.
A special moment of recognition honored Central Ohio Chapter President Therase Moore for her remarkable 20 years of dedicated service and leadership. Her commitment to empowering women and strengthening communities has helped guide the organization’s continued success and influence throughout Central Ohio.
One of the evening’s distinguished honorees was Habiba K. Bankston, who received the Economic Empowerment Award for her outstanding leadership and dedication to community advancement. Bankston, recognized as a bold and purpose-driven leader, has more than a decade of experience in nonprofit leadership, corporate philanthropy, strategic community engagement, and program innovation. She currently serves as Executive Director of Dress for Success Columbus, where she continues helping women achieve economic independence and professional success.
Another featured honoree was April Sunami, who was recognized as an Arts Advocate for her continued contributions to creativity, artistic expression, and community engagement through the arts. Her advocacy and influence have helped create opportunities for artistic voices while promoting cultural awareness and empowerment throughout the community.
Angela Dawson was also recognized during the evening as the recipient of the prestigious Linda Kanney Advocacy Award at the 13th Annual Trailblazer Honors. Dawson was honored for her continued dedication to advocacy, leadership, and her commitment to addressing minority health disparities while supporting underserved communities across Ohio.
Shanette Strickland was honored with a Trailblazer Award in the category of Public Policy. Strickland, who currently serves as the City Auditor for Reynoldsburg, Ohio, was recognized alongside other distinguished community leaders for her commitment to public service, leadership, advocacy, and community impact.
The evening also highlighted the organization’s commitment to investing in future generations through scholarship recognition and educational support. Karin Covington received a Chick-fil-A Remarkable Futures Scholarship with a monetary value of $25,000 in recognition of her academic achievements, leadership potential, and dedication to excellence. Her recognition reflected the importance of empowering students and creating opportunities for future leaders to thrive.
The sold-out gathering also featured local vendors, networking opportunities, and community businesses showcasing products, jewelry, accessories, and services, creating an atmosphere that celebrated entrepreneurship, economic empowerment, and collaboration within the community.
Hosted by emcee Pastor Michael Young, the evening emphasized the importance of mentorship, representation, leadership, and creating pathways for women, youth, and underserved communities. The event also showcased strong support from community organizations and sponsors dedicated to education, economic opportunity, and advocacy throughout Central Ohio.
Among the organizations recognized for their partnership and support were the Franklin County Board of Commissioners Economic Development & Planning division, Spectrum Reach, Franklin County Children Services, AEP Ohio, NCUS, Impact Safety, The Links, Incorporated, SavKon, and several additional organizations committed to strengthening communities across the region.
Throughout the evening, speakers emphasized the importance of unity, mentorship, representation, and investing in the next generation of changemakers. Guests were encouraged to continue building bridges within their communities while supporting initiatives that create lasting opportunities for future leaders.
The Power of 13: Women Who Light the Way served not only as a celebration of achievement, but also as a powerful reminder that leadership rooted in compassion, resilience, advocacy, and service can inspire transformational change for generations to come.
The evening concluded with networking, celebration, scholarship recognition, and a renewed commitment to empowering women who continue to light the way throughout Central Ohio and beyond.
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