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WE MADE
WHO WE ARE
WEMADE was born from a shared vision and a mother-daughter bond. Co-founded in 2022 by Briahna Gatlin — owner of Swank PR and The Purple Block Party — and Carol Johnson — Founder of Westside Cultural Alliance and The 1865 Fest — WEMADE was created to do what too few spaces dare to do: put extraordinary women in the spotlight they've always deserved.
OUR MISSION
To honor, celebrate, and amplify women who are making a lasting difference in their industries and communities — from the boardroom to the block, from the stage to the statehouse.
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THE HONORS
The MADE Maven
The MADE Maven award is the highest honor bestowed at WEMADE. It is presented to women who have not only excelled in their fields but have fundamentally changed the landscape of their industries.
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Maven in the Making
The Maven in the Making award celebrates women under 30 who are already rewriting the rules. These are the rising voices, the bold builders, and the next generation of leaders who haven't waited for permission to make their mark.
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Honorees
WEMADE Honorees are women from all walks of life and every corner of industry — real estate, hospitality, media, politics, healthcare, technology, community leadership, and beyond.
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PAST HONOREES
SHEILA RASHID
CAMILLE Y. LILLY
JACQUELINE REED
DAVINA WARD
Fashion Designer
Illinois State Representative
Westside Health Authority
Chicago Police Department Commander
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ATTEND
Join us for an unforgettable evening as we close out Women's History Month in style. The 4th Annual WEMADE Honors Celebration brings together Chicago's most dynamic women and allies for a night of culture, community, and celebration.
The evening will feature live music, a silent auction, raffle giveaways, and premier networking — all set against an iconic Chicago backdrop.
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This is more than an awards ceremony. It's a movement made visible.
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