The Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce proudly celebrated the 6th Annual City National Bank Badass Women of the Year Awards on Friday, August 21st at Jungle Island, bringing together an inspiring community of leaders, changemakers, and supporters to recognize extraordinary women making a lasting impact across their industries.

Presented by City National Bank, the annual celebration honored women who are breaking barriers, raising the bar, and paving the way for future generations. This year’s awards featured an incredible 182 nominations and 54 finalists, showcasing the depth and diversity of talent within the South Florida business and community landscape.

The highest honor of the afternoon, The Badass Woman of the Year Award, was presented to Claudia Miro of Freebee, recognizing her outstanding leadership, accomplishments, and impact within the community.

The 2026 category winners included:

• Arts & Culture: Allison Freidin, Museum of Graffiti
• Construction, Real Estate & Development: Gloria Fonseca, Fonsis LLC
• Education & Research: Anya Freeman, Kind Designs
• Finance: Mary Usategui, Bank Miami
• Government: Rayna Milfort, Miami Homes For All
• Healthcare: Kimberly Juanico, Holtz Children’s Hospital (Jackson Health)
• Law: Lisa B. Malamud, Stearns Weaver Law Firm
• Marketing & Media: Gabrielle Charles, Gabrielle Charles & Company Public Relations Agency
• Non-Profit: Rebekah Lengel, Lanae International
• Tourism & Hospitality: Corey Narson, Coreyographed Events
• Women in Business: Beatrice Louissaint, Gateway Group International
• Young Women in Excellence: Liane Sippin, FIU

“These women represent the very best of leadership, determination, and impact in our community,” said Kim Haber, Haber Law and Chair of the Miami Beach Chamber Women’s Business Council. “The incredible number of nominations and finalists this year is a testament to the remarkable women who continue to lead, innovate, and create meaningful change across South Florida.”

The Chamber extends its heartfelt congratulations to all 54 finalists, whose accomplishments and dedication earned them recognition among an exceptional group of nominees. Each finalist represents the strength, talent, and leadership that this annual celebration was created to honor.

“This event is about recognizing women who are not only achieving remarkable things in their own careers, but who are also making a difference in the lives of others and strengthening our community,” said Brittnie Bassant, President & CEO of the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce. “The 6th Annual Badass Women of the Year Awards was an incredible celebration of their accomplishments, and we are proud to shine a spotlight on the women who are leading with purpose and making an impact.”

The Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce extends its sincere gratitude to its Presenting Sponsor, City National Bank, for its continued commitment to celebrating and supporting women in leadership.

Special thanks to the Gold Sponsor, Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, and Silver Sponsors Breezeline, Fontainebleau Miami Beach, Haber Law, and Priva Medis for their generous support in making this celebration possible.

The Chamber also extends its appreciation to the 2026 Badass Women of the Year Awards judges, whose time, expertise, and thoughtful consideration helped make this year’s awards possible:

• Jennifer Diaz-Alzuri, Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Kim Haber, Haber Law and Chair of the Miami Beach Chamber Women’s Business Council
• Robin Jacobs, Miami Beach Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery Center and Past Chair of the Miami Beach Chamber
• Victoria Mendez, Shutts & Bowen and Miami Beach Chamber Board Member
• Heather Shaw, City of Miami Beach Economic Development Department
• Chelsea Lunn, Florida Power & Light and Miami Beach Chamber Board Member

The 6th Annual City National Bank Badass Women of the Year Awards was a powerful afternoon of recognition, connection, and celebration, honoring women whose leadership and accomplishments continue to make a difference throughout South Florida.

Founded in 1921, the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce has been a cornerstone of economic growth and community development in Miami Beach. Through leadership, networking, advocacy, and philanthropic initiatives, the Chamber works to enhance the business community while supporting education, local schools, and community programs. The Chamber is dedicated to fostering a thriving environment where businesses and residents alike can flourish.

For more information, please visit the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce website and follow us on Social Media.