On Thursday, October 16, nearly 200 guests gathered at the beautiful Switch House Hotel in Philadelphia, PA, to celebrate I Choose To Win’s 4th Annual Bold, Brave & Brilliant Awards Gala. This year’s theme, inspired by the Golden Era, was a nod to the organization’s 10th year of service and decade of empowering women to live boldly and purposefully.
From sponsors and honorees to donors, volunteers, and guests, everyone came dressed to impress, helping to make the evening both meaningful and memorable.
A Moment of Honor and Recognition
A special highlight of the evening was the arrival of Speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives Joanna McClinton, who presented a citation to founder Melonie Butler. The recognition celebrated 10 years of service and I Choose To Win’s impact on more than 8,300 lives. This heartfelt presentation took place during the cocktail reception, setting the tone for a night of joy, gratitude, and reflection.
A Night of Inspiration and Entertainment
Families of honorees, generous sponsors, and dedicated volunteers helped bring the evening to life. With support from HiTouch Enterprises, event production company owned by board member Felicia Williams, event production ran smoothly—allowing the mostly volunteer-based team to focus on tasks to improve the guest experience.
Guests were treated to a variety of engaging performances, including The Trio’s dance performance, an LED dance experience by Starfire Entertainment, and a live drum performance by SunnyDeeDrumma & DJ G33k, who kept the energy high throughout the night. Gweebz, a talented youth performer from I Choose To Win’s Cultiv8 Hope initiative, shared an original song she wrote and performed for the occasion.
Guided by Passion and Purpose
The evening was thoughtfully planned in partnership with gala co-chair Sarah Maginnis and hosted by emcee Cheyenne Corin from 6ABC News. Guests were also delighted to see Patty Jackson from WDAS FM Radio join the celebration, adding her signature warmth and encouragement to the night.
Good Food, Good Company, and Giving Back
From the complimentary valet service to the open bar, raw bar, and beautiful dinner spread, guests enjoyed every moment. The awards ceremony honored incredible women making bold moves in their lives and communities.
Throughout the evening, guests participated in fun and impactful fundraising activities, including raffles, a 50/50 drawing, a silent auction, and a lively paddle raise. Together, with the community of sponsors, individual donors, in-kind gifts, value of silent auction contributions, and in-gala efforts, we raised $72,083. Funds raised will support I Choose To Win’s 2026 programming, including the LET HER Initiative, launching in 2026.
Capturing Beautiful Memories
In-kind sponsors Wah Photography and RISE Creative Services captured the special moments of the night through photos and video (view the full album HERE). Guests also enjoyed the 360 Photo Booth experience from Sis and Bros Vending, which added laughter and excitement to the evening — check out a fun glimpse HERE!
Heartfelt Thanks
On behalf of the Board of Directors, I Choose To Win extends heartfelt gratitude to every sponsor, honoree, volunteer, and guest who made this celebration possible. Your presence, generosity, and belief in our mission continue to fuel our work and vision for the future. Sponsors for tonight’s event include IMC, Fulton Bank, MRA Group, LECET/LiUNA!, Comprehensive Pain Solutions of New Jersey, Keep Evolving Consulting, 1st Colonial Bank, Mosaic Development Partners. And in-kind sponsors, RISE Creative Services, HiTouch Enterprises, and WAH Photography.
Together, we are building on a decade of impact — and the best is yet to come.