Laura Lahti: Amplifying Madison’s Asian Communities
byIn 2022, Laura Lahti founded AMASIAN — a play on the words “amazing” and “Asian.” Since then, the organization has hosted social gatherings to bring the Asian American community together.
2024 Women to Watch
Anna Stern: Breaking Gender Barriers
byAnna Stern works on a variety of community initiatives as vice president of Tri-North Builders, with the ultimate goal of engaging more girls and women in the industry.
Angela Wallace: Helping Families With Heart
byAngela Wallace is helping families as the executive director of Logan’s Heart and Smiles, a nonprofit that makes accessibility and safety modifications to the homes of families with children with disabilities.
Sarah Jacobson: Advocating for Inclusive Dance
bySarah Jacobson’s program, called Confidance, opens the door to dance for all students.
Susan Yackee: Bridging a Divided Society
bySusan Yackee, director of UW-Madison’s La Follette School of Public Affairs, has achieved a lot in recent years, including creating the first La Follette School Policy Poll and the Wisconsin Main Street Agenda Project.
Jazmynn Appleton: Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities
byAt the Progress Center for Black Women, Jazmynn Appleton connects with and mentors Black entrepreneurs, plans networking events for the Center and cultivates relationships with Madison-area businesses.
Shaney Andler: Tackling Youth Mental Health
byPersonal experiences inspired Shaney Andler to write a manual for young people — “Back Pocket Tools for Teens to Nurture Their Mental Health.”
Qwantese Dourese Winters: Linking Maternal Health and Food
byQwantese Dourese Winters is living all of her dreams as a community agriculturist, food doula, writer, artist and co-host of a PBS TV show.
Uchenna Jones: Birthing Babies and Inspiring New Runners
byUchenna Jones’ passion for holistic health and wellness inspired her to establish the Madison Gospel 5K Foundation five years ago.
Afra Smith: Building Black Women’s Wealth
byBased off of her experiences and a desire to help Black women avoid financial pitfalls, Afra Smith founded The Melanin Project, a business providing financial coaching and education about building wealth.