“We show up, speak up, and lift each other up.
That’s where change begins.”
Projects
The ripple starts here. The space for nonprofit collaborations and hype-worthy missions that uplift women and ignite impact. These projects elevate voices, serve communities, and turn purpose into power—because fulfillment isn’t just personal, it’s collective. With a big heart and an even bigger mission, this is where special projects meet social change—with women always at the center.
The Illuminator Trifecta–where voices rise, women shine & impact multiplies.
Celebrating women who shine—and help others shine, too.
A spotlight on women who embody the BADE mindset: Be Anything, Do Everything—and they do it in service of others. These women uplift their communities, lead with joy, and make impact without asking for applause. This event is our way of giving it to them anyway.
Why it matters-
Visibility is powerful. So is recognition.
SHEilluminates isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence, purpose, and the ripple effect of one woman living fully and freely. When we honor these women, we’re also saying: we see you, we value you, and we’re following your light.
How honorees were selected-
Each honoree was nominated by someone who witnessed their impact firsthand—whether through bold leadership, everyday generosity, or quiet transformation. We reviewed every nomination with care, looking for women who lead with heart, give back with intention, and light up every space they enter.
Nominations are now closed, but their stories are just getting started.
Shine Your Eyes on the 2025 illuminators
Seven women. Seven categories. Each one shining in her own way—together, a constellation of brilliance.
This is the spirit of SHEilluminates: all different, all important, all essential. These women aren’t just making moves—they’re reaching back, lifting others, and lighting the way forward. From bold voices to quiet strength, they remind us that every light matters.
When women shine together, they don’t just glow… they guide.
Kelsey Hogan
Business: “The Trailblazer”
Meet “Kels” — an award-winning trailblazer in the marketing and business strategy space, bringing nearly two decades of unmatched expertise and leadership to her clients. She’s the founder of Claimed & Co. — a bespoke marketing studio for women who are done circling their potential. Kels is passionate about helping bold women own their brilliance and build brands that feel as powerful as they are.
Non Profit: BasBlue
Robin Wilson
Creative Visionary: “The Lightbender”
Robin is an educator, children’s author, entrepreneur, and multidisciplinary visual artist. Working primarily in collage, abstract, and fiber, her art practice explores African American family traditions, historical lineages, and cultural inheritances through memory, research, and storytelling. She is also the founder of Vesey Lane Goods, a creative venture that blends artistry, heritage, and handmade goods.
Non Profit: The Robin Wilson Educational Scholarship Fund
Lori Lorenz
Community Builder: “The Bridge Builder”
A Michigan native who fell for Ann Arbor 15 years ago and never looked back. With a background in physical therapy, a passion for design, and a love for local gems, she now owns The Scout Guide Ann Arbor—connecting the community and celebrating the city she calls home. She’s all about spotlighting the people and places that make Ann Arbor unforgettable.
Hannah Jahshan
Under 30: “The Rising Flame”
Hannah is a 20-year-old advocate and founder of A Pathway to Joy—a faith-rooted nonprofit dedicated to breaking the silence around mental health and shining hope into hard places. Her work centers on creating safe, honest spaces—especially for the next generation—to explore emotional health and spiritual wholeness.
Non Profit: A Pathway to Joy
Malika Williams
Non-Profit: “The Changemaker”
Malika, a single mother of four, knows firsthand the challenges of growing up in foster care and turning one’s life around. Founder of L.I.V.E. Outreach, she is deeply committed to supporting children and families, believing that our children are our greatest investment in the future—and the heartbeat of lasting community change.
Non Profit: L.I.V.E. Outreach
Barbara Ozminkowski
Guardian: “The Heartkeeper”
Barb, lovingly known as Mrs. O by generations of kindergartners, spent 33 years in the classroom. Retirement hasn’t slowed her down—she now fills her days with yoga, walks with her husband, volunteering, golfing, traveling, and crafting. Grateful for a full and beautiful life, she sees each day as a gift.
Non-Profit: Dawn Farm
Kaye Herdoiza
Everyday Hero:
“The Quiet Fire”
Kaye is a nurse turned supermom of five, now a beloved preschool teacher. She’s the quiet strength in every room—nurturing hearts, raising kids, loving hard, and asking for nothing in return. Humble, wise, and wildly generous, she’s the kind of woman who makes the world softer just by being in it.
Non Profit: Angela Hospice: My Nest is Best
Save the Date
August 21, 2025
A night to celebrate the women who light the path for everyone else. The quiet heroes. The magic-makers. The ones who pour into their people, lift up communities, and shine without needing the spotlight.
This night? It’s for them. It’s for us.
And the glow doesn’t stop here—all proceeds go to nonprofits handpicked by our honorees. Because giving back is how we shine even brighter.
Individually, we sparkle. But together? We illuminate the world.
Join us for SHEilluminates, a soirée under the stars, set against the expansive and beautiful grounds of the Living and Learning Enrichment Center.
Feel the powerful feminine energy, soak in the glowing vibes, and celebrate in a space designed for connection and joy.
Sip on rosé or mocktails, indulge in tasty bites, and dance under the night sky as our DJ spins high-energy beats.
The night’s highlight?
A special honoree recognition ceremony.
Champions of the Glow
SHEilluminates is more than an evening—it’s a movement.
A soulful celebration of women who lead with heart, lift others up, and light the way with quiet strength and unstoppable purpose.
As a sponsor, you won’t just be supporting an event—you’ll be investing in real change.
Every dollar raised goes directly to the nonprofits hand-selected by our honorees. No detours. Just impact.
Why Sponsor?
✨ Fuel Meaningful Change
100% of proceeds support nonprofits making waves in their communities.
✨ Shine Alongside Powerful Women
Put your brand in front of a dynamic, purpose-driven audience that values heart as much as hustle.
✨ Stand for Something Beautiful
Align with an experience rooted in connection, celebration, and collective glow.
Have Questions?
Ask Me Anything!
