Celebrating Female Veterans and Military Spouses at the Warrior Rising Gala in D.C.
On December 12, 2024, Washington D.C. witnessed a powerful celebration of female veteran entrepreneurship during Warrior Rising's Second Annual "Saluting Her Service" Gala and Business Shower. This remarkable event, strategically timed to coincide with the Army-Navy weekend, brought together inspiring women veterans and military spouses contributing to the entrepreneurial landscape across the nation.
Held at two prestigious venues, the J.P. Morgan Chase Headquarters and the historic Schuyler Ballroom in Hamilton Hotel, the gala served as a platform for these resilient entrepreneurs to connect, learn, and showcase their innovative ideas. The highlight of the evening was a thrilling live pitch competition where Paden Sickles, the visionary behind SickFit, won a substantial $50,000 grant. This award not only recognized her entrepreneurial endeavors but also emphasized the courage and tenacity these women possess.
In her thrilling acceptance speech, Paden expressed gratitude, stating, "This opportunity is a game-changer for SickFit. Warrior Rising has provided not just financial support but mentorship and the community needed to scale my business. I am beyond grateful to be part of this incredible organization." SickFit stands out for its commitment to delivering innovative and inclusive fitness solutions for individuals of all abilities, empowering them to reach their health goals.
The atmosphere at the gala was electric, fueled by the stories of resilience and determination from the participants. Veteran entrepreneurs engaged in coaching sessions, refining their pitches with the help of expert mentors earlier in the day. The culmination of their efforts occurred during the gala when finalists presented their businesses to an audience brimming with supporters, partners, and potential investors.
Adding to the event's allure was special guest Martha Stewart, who participated in a captivating 30-minute fireside chat with Dawn Halfaker. The discussion focused on Stewart's legendary journey as a female entrepreneur and her guidance for those transitioning into business ownership. Her remarks struck a chord with the audience, emphasizing the importance of setting trends rather than merely following them. Sickles was particularly enchanted by meeting Stewart, illuminating her experience with the words, "I'm still blown away that Martha Stewart now knows me as 'The Sock Lady!' This moment is surreal and humbling. I genuinely hope she enjoys my socks because I would love to converse about potential collaboration in the future."
The gala also played a vital role in raising essential funds to fortify Warrior Rising’s initiatives, which equip veterans with the resources, mentorship, and financial backing necessary for entrepreneurial success. The event garnered significant support from flagship sponsors including J.P. Morgan Chase, known for its commitment to veteran initiatives; Dawn Halfaker and the Continuing to Serve Foundation, which champions programs aimed at empowering veterans; and Coforma, dedicated to investing in opportunities that uplift veteran-led businesses.
Jason Van Camp, Executive Director of Warrior Rising, articulated the organization’s mission emphasizing the significance of empowering veterans in their entrepreneurial endeavors, stating, "Our veterans embody resourcefulness and resilience. This event highlights their ability to innovate and thrive, and we are proud to provide a platform that transforms their entrepreneurial visions into reality. Our gratitude extends to our sponsors and the D.C. community, whose support continually uplifts our nation's heroes."
Warrior Rising stands as a beacon of hope and support, with its mission firmly rooted in assisting military veterans and their families in navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship. By offering mentorship, education, and financial support, the organization creates pathways for veterans to establish successful businesses that stimulate economic growth and individual fulfillment. To discover more about their initiatives, visit www.warriorrising.org.
The Continuing to Serve Foundation, established by veteran entrepreneur Dawn Halfaker, is dedicated to empowering military veterans during their transition to leadership roles in business and community.
Coforma’s commitment to advancing innovation resonates deeply with veteran-led businesses, highlighting their dedication to creating meaningful opportunities. This gala not only showcased the talent and determination within the veteran community but also painted a picture of a supportive network ready to uplift and empower those who serve.
In conclusion, the Warrior Rising gala stands as a testament to the strength of women veterans and military spouses, illustrating their dedication to entrepreneurship and their willingness to support each other in overcoming challenges and achieving success.
Held at two prestigious venues, the J.P. Morgan Chase Headquarters and the historic Schuyler Ballroom in Hamilton Hotel, the gala served as a platform for these resilient entrepreneurs to connect, learn, and showcase their innovative ideas. The highlight of the evening was a thrilling live pitch competition where Paden Sickles, the visionary behind SickFit, won a substantial $50,000 grant. This award not only recognized her entrepreneurial endeavors but also emphasized the courage and tenacity these women possess.
In her thrilling acceptance speech, Paden expressed gratitude, stating, "This opportunity is a game-changer for SickFit. Warrior Rising has provided not just financial support but mentorship and the community needed to scale my business. I am beyond grateful to be part of this incredible organization." SickFit stands out for its commitment to delivering innovative and inclusive fitness solutions for individuals of all abilities, empowering them to reach their health goals.
The atmosphere at the gala was electric, fueled by the stories of resilience and determination from the participants. Veteran entrepreneurs engaged in coaching sessions, refining their pitches with the help of expert mentors earlier in the day. The culmination of their efforts occurred during the gala when finalists presented their businesses to an audience brimming with supporters, partners, and potential investors.
Adding to the event's allure was special guest Martha Stewart, who participated in a captivating 30-minute fireside chat with Dawn Halfaker. The discussion focused on Stewart's legendary journey as a female entrepreneur and her guidance for those transitioning into business ownership. Her remarks struck a chord with the audience, emphasizing the importance of setting trends rather than merely following them. Sickles was particularly enchanted by meeting Stewart, illuminating her experience with the words, "I'm still blown away that Martha Stewart now knows me as 'The Sock Lady!' This moment is surreal and humbling. I genuinely hope she enjoys my socks because I would love to converse about potential collaboration in the future."
The gala also played a vital role in raising essential funds to fortify Warrior Rising’s initiatives, which equip veterans with the resources, mentorship, and financial backing necessary for entrepreneurial success. The event garnered significant support from flagship sponsors including J.P. Morgan Chase, known for its commitment to veteran initiatives; Dawn Halfaker and the Continuing to Serve Foundation, which champions programs aimed at empowering veterans; and Coforma, dedicated to investing in opportunities that uplift veteran-led businesses.
Jason Van Camp, Executive Director of Warrior Rising, articulated the organization’s mission emphasizing the significance of empowering veterans in their entrepreneurial endeavors, stating, "Our veterans embody resourcefulness and resilience. This event highlights their ability to innovate and thrive, and we are proud to provide a platform that transforms their entrepreneurial visions into reality. Our gratitude extends to our sponsors and the D.C. community, whose support continually uplifts our nation's heroes."
Warrior Rising stands as a beacon of hope and support, with its mission firmly rooted in assisting military veterans and their families in navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship. By offering mentorship, education, and financial support, the organization creates pathways for veterans to establish successful businesses that stimulate economic growth and individual fulfillment. To discover more about their initiatives, visit www.warriorrising.org.
The Continuing to Serve Foundation, established by veteran entrepreneur Dawn Halfaker, is dedicated to empowering military veterans during their transition to leadership roles in business and community.
Coforma’s commitment to advancing innovation resonates deeply with veteran-led businesses, highlighting their dedication to creating meaningful opportunities. This gala not only showcased the talent and determination within the veteran community but also painted a picture of a supportive network ready to uplift and empower those who serve.
In conclusion, the Warrior Rising gala stands as a testament to the strength of women veterans and military spouses, illustrating their dedication to entrepreneurship and their willingness to support each other in overcoming challenges and achieving success.
Topics People & Culture）
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