Senator Kevin Parker Presents: Celebrating Women's Excellence at the Inaugural 'Herstory' Awards in Brooklyn

In a groundbreaking event called the Women “Herstory” Awards State Senator Parker paid tribute to five outstanding women who epitomizes philanthropy, leadership, and community engagement. The ceremony commemorating event called took place the Kings Plaza Community Center. Additionally, five women-owned and operated businesses were acknowledged for their significant impact on the local community. 

"Hosting this inaugural Women 'Herstory' Awards ceremony has been a true honor,” said Senator Parker. “It was an opportunity to showcase the remarkable contributions of women in our society and I am deeply moved by their commitment to effect positive change in our communities. Celebrating their accomplishments and acknowledging their invaluable contributions was a delight." 

The honored individuals included: 

Kristina M. LeGrand, who served 33 years in the NYC Fire Department's Fiscal Service as a Contracting Officer. Joan Bakiriddin, who is civically engaged as the Secretary of her Block Association and Vice Chair of the Participatory Budgeting Project Board, Community Board 17 (CB17). Bernice Kinsberry, the Tenant Association President of Glenwood Houses. Malvina Brabham, an experienced Construction Coordinator at Verizon. Naomi Hopkins, who currently serves in leadership as the Co-Chair of Social Action for the Brooklyn Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated and as the Worthy Matron of Armentres Chapter No. 29, Order of the Eastern Star. 

Among the five institutions and businesses owned or managed by women which were recognized are: AKA, represented by Monique Okumakpeyi, Sigma Gamma Rho, represented by Kim O’Neal; Caribbean's Women Health Association, Cheryl Hall; Big Apple Urgent Care, Dr. Tamara Moise and Neighborhood Housing Services, Tonya Ores. 

In addition, Marietta Small a longstanding East Flatbush resident who has dedicated her life to the advancement and improvement of the Black Community. Received the Women of Distinction honor of the year which was accompanied by a Senate proclamation. The Women of Distinction program aims to commend outstanding women whose endeavors have enriched the quality of life in their communities. 

About State Senator Kevin Parker 

Senator Kevin S. Parker is intimately familiar with the needs of his ethnically diverse Brooklyn district comprising sections of Flatbush, East Flatbush, Kensington, Ditmas Park, Midwood, Flatlands, Canarsie, Georgetown, Old Mill Basin, Mill Basin, Marine Park, and Bergen Beach. A lifelong Brooklyn resident, Senator Parker is the Chairman of the Senate Energy and Telecommunications Committee and a member of several other Senate committees including Finance, Rules, Banks, Internet, and Technology, as well as Budget and Revenue.