ABOVE: President of the Barber Fund and owner of The Venue, Blue Star.
Orlando Magazine has named its Women of the Year in Central Florida and a couple of familiar names popped up on that list. “They are educators, mentors, counselors, fund-raisers, business owners and managers of organizations that help those in need. But most of all they are leaders, who step forward to help keep our community strong,” says Orlando Magazine of its 23 individual selections.
The 23 women were selected from readership nominees who submitted who they thought were worthy to be named to the list. Amongst the women honored is cofounder and president of The Barber Fund, and owner of The Venue, Blue Star. “Without her guidance and support, the family of The Venue wouldn’t have a place to be who we really feel we were meant to be. And families living with cancer would be with one less advocate in their corner,” read one of Blue’s many nominations.
Another Women of the Year, executive director of the Zebra Coalition Heather Wilkie. “[She] goes above and beyond to keep LGBTQ youth recognized and safe, and [she] provides a space where they can be themselves. If you meet her you feel her passion for these kids; she fights the fight every day, giving LGBTQ youth hope and inspiration,” wrote one supporter.
Congratulations to Blue and Heather. You can read the full list at OrlandoMagazine.com.
