On Wednesday, September 6th, 2023, in the heart of Miami-Dade County, the indomitable spirit of women in business took center stage.
The 24th Annual Thelma Gibson Awards, hosted by the Women's Chamber of Commerce of Miami-Dade County, was a night of celebration, camaraderie, and heartfelt toasts celebrating unstoppable women shaping the business landscape of Miami, including FeelWell Magazine's Editor-In-Chief, GiGi Diaz. Â
Amidst the celebration of outstanding women, the 24th Annual Thelma Gibson Awards had a spotlight shining brightly on Media Personality, Founder of Seizing Happy and Editor-In-Chief of FeelWell Magazine, GiGi Diaz. She was honored for her exceptional journey and her dedication to empowering women. In a heartfelt speech, GiGi shared her gratitude for the nomination, a recognition that came as she celebrated two decades as an entrepreneur, a journey that began with the founding of her first business, Gigi's Dance Academy in 2003.
GiGi's journey, marked by both triumphs and challenges, led her to create "Seizing Happy," a coaching organization dedicated to helping women achieve success with less stress. Her vision centers on community, smart work, and nurturing both the business and the women behind it. Her powerful message of sisterhood, collaboration over competition, and building a strong network of referrals and support resonated deeply with the audience.
GiGi encouraged every woman in the audience to reflect on the power of self-honor. She reminded the audience of the importance of recognizing one's own achievements and the inspirational stories that each woman carries. She emphasized the significance of women supporting each other and extending a helping hand to those who may need it.
GiGi's speech underscored the idea that awards like these are not just about personal recognition but also about how individuals use their experiences to uplift and empower others. Her words resonated profoundly, emphasizing the importance of unity, mentorship, and giving back; the foundation on which Thelma Gibson and the Miami Women's Chamber of Commerce stands.
The Thelma Gibson Awards continue to be a testament to the boundless potential of women when they come together with determination and purpose. It is a reminder that, as GiGi beautifully put it, "We are stronger when we support each other."
The Thelma Gibson Awards
The Thelma Gibson Awards have deep roots, tracing back to the establishment of Miami-Dade County's first Women's Chamber of Commerce in 1984, founded by the visionary Mrs. Thelma Gibson. She believed in providing a platform where businesswomen of all backgrounds could find their voice and be heard throughout the county. Her legacy of unity and empowerment continues to inspire.
In 1984, the Chamber began with just 21 members, and today it has blossomed into a vibrant community, with hundreds of women and men, making it one of the fastest-growing women's professional organizations in Miami-Dade County.
In this moment of triumph and inspiration, let us all honor ourselves and each other, recognizing that our achievements are not just personal milestones but sources of empowerment for those around us. Together, we will continue to build a brighter and more supportive future for women in business. Our shared journey is what truly matters and supports us on our journey to feeling and doing business well.