From Recognition to Revolution: WerkIt Awards Fuel the Future of Leadership

InitiativesEvents
Written By Ashton Lynne Rondon

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 27, 2025

Austin, TX – As Women’s History Month comes to a close, the impact of the WerkIt Award Ceremony, held in December 2024, continues to shine a spotlight on the remarkable achievements of women in the Austin community. The annual event recognized trailblazers across various industries breaking barriers, driving change, and empowering the next generation of female leaders.

Strong women leaders are more vital than ever in a rapidly growing and evolving city like Austin. Women are shaping industries and driving meaningful change in the community, ensuring that growth is inclusive, sustainable, and impactful. The WerkIt Awards, known for honoring excellence in leadership, entrepreneurship, and community impact, celebrated a diverse group of honorees at the forefront of this transformation—embodying resilience, innovation, and progress while paving the way for future generations. 

“The WerkIt Awards are not just about recognition—they are about revolutionizing how we uplift and empower women,” said Ashton Lynne Rondon, founder of the Women Without Limits Movement. “As we reflect on our celebration of Women’s History Month, it’s more important than ever to amplify the voices of women who are breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations. The energy and inspiration from our ceremony fuel our commitment to ensuring that women’s achievements are celebrated, supported, and sustained daily.”

This year’s honorees included:

  • Pioneer of the Year: Candyce Hunt

  • Empowering Queen of the Year: Summer McAfee

  • Ally of the Year: Tarik Daniels

  • Emerging Leader of the Year: Suzette Reynoso-Bivens

  • SHERO of the Year: Lei Wang

  • Changemaker of the Year: Ishia Lynette Adams

These individuals were recognized for their outstanding contributions to their respective fields. Their stories of perseverance and success align perfectly with the mission of Women’s History Month—to honor the past, celebrate the present, and inspire the future.

"The WerkIt Awards play a crucial role in elevating and empowering women in Austin," said Karla Rodriguez, Board Chair of the Women Without Limits Movement. "When we recognize and celebrate the achievements of these extraordinary individuals, we are fostering a culture that values women's leadership and contributions. This event is very needed in our community because it highlights the successes of our finalists and honorees and inspires others to break barriers. These leaders deserve to be celebrated for all the work they have put in to reach these new heights."

As we wrap up Women’s History Month, the Women Without Limits Movement encourages community members to support women-led initiatives, mentor emerging female professionals, and foster inclusive spaces for women to thrive. To learn more about the WerkIt Awards and how to get involved, visit https://womenwithoutlimitsmovement.org/.

About the Women Without Limits Movement
The Women Without Limits Movement supports economically disadvantaged women and women of color by giving them access to the tools and resources they need to take their lives to the next level. We provide self-development training around problem-solving, decision-making, critical thinking, and financial, educational, and professional development goals for women’s life journeys.

Media Contact:
Ashton Lynne Rondon
ashton@womenwithoutlimitsmovement.org
512-537-4817
https://womenwithoutlimitsmovement.org/

Ashton Lynne Rondon