Exceptional Women Entrepreneurs, community youth advocates, artists and the military were honored Wednesday evening at a fundraising event for the Optimist Pueblo Club of Arizona. Sponsored by TST Enterprisez, Republican Legislative District 2, and in conjunction with Guiseppe’s Italian Ristorante at 6060 N Oracle Rd, Tucson.
Dr. Kelli Ward, Arizona State Senator from District 5 (Lake Havasu / Kingman region) and a US Senatorial candidate running for John McCain’s seat in 2016 was the keynote speaker.
Ward, an entrepreneur in her own right as a family physician formerly in private practice prior to being elected to her State Senate seat, and also a military wife and mom, told the audience, “Dreams are not enough on their own, dreams and hard work combined accomplish anything." She then told the young entrepreneurs to always remember ‘BFF’ that is ‘Bold, Fresh and Fearless’ her motto for anything worth doing in life.
Awards were presented as follows:
Zarina Hernandez, Top Woman Business Award for her work with Head Start;
Ryan Castillo, Top Student Award for his work on a veteran’s memorial; and
Ret. Master Sargent, Frederick Harvey, Top Military Award.
Shuron Harvey, with TST Enterprisez the organizer for the event, had this to say, “It’s important we encourage our women entrepreneurs, especially those just starting out. Legislative District 2 is always looking for new ways to reach out to the community and this event seemed a natural evolution.”
“To have these exceptional women such as Dr. Ward speaking is an honor and a great opportunity for all these young entrepreneurs to gather, listen, and share information with each other,” Harvey added. “We celebrate all the many great contributions entrepreneurs, both men and women, in Tucson contribute to our community.”
Speaking with many of the young people in attendance, they had never met an elected official before in person and were excited to be able to speak in person to Dr. Ward.
The evening concluded with a fashion show by local designer, Christina Cornwall showing her “Timeless Elegance” collection. Cornwall will participate in Tucson Fashion Week from October 15-17 that brings together creative people from all levels of the fashion industry for three days of outstanding fashionable experiences, showcasing the work of emerging talent, industry experts, icons, artists, and more. More information on Tucson Fashion Week can be found at Visit Tucson.