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Celebrating Women of Vision: Honoring Leaders and Trailblazers Who Inspire the Next Generation
Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey (GSHNJ) proudly hosted its 2025 Women of Vision Awards Breakfast on Wednesday, May 7, at Nanina’s in the Park in Belleville, NJ, honoring four inspiring individuals whose leadership and impact have helped pave the way for girls and women across the state. The event raised over $55,000 to support GSHNJ’s leadership development programs, which empower Girl Scouts to become changemakers in their communities.
The morning brought together corporate and community leaders, Girl Scout members, volunteers, and supporters, all united to celebrate honorees who exemplify courage, confidence, and character—the very qualities at the heart of the Girl Scout mission.
Meet Our 2025 Women of Vision Honorees
T. and Cory Strong, Impact in Action Award
As founders of Dirty Soles Footwear Group, a Newark-based nonprofit, T. and Cory were celebrated for empowering youth through education and creativity, with a special focus on uplifting young people in Newark and inspiring them to pursue their dreams.
Debra “Debbi” Zvanut, Inspiration Award
A lifelong Girl Scout for over 65 years and a former GSHNJ camp director, Debbi was honored for her decades-long commitment to creating unforgettable camp experiences that have shaped generations of Girl Scouts and sparked lifelong confidence, resilience, and leadership.
Wanda Bryant Hope, Trailblazer Award
Recognized for her visionary leadership as the retired Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer at Johnson & Johnson, Wanda drove innovation, growth, and deeper customer connections through inclusive strategies that transformed the organization and set a new standard for the industry.
Voices of Leadership and Connection
The event featured remarks from Natasha Hemmings, CEO of GSHNJ, and Dr. Naima Ricks, Chair of the Board of Directors, who emphasized the importance of leadership through action and how the honorees inspire the next generation to make a meaningful difference.
“This event is more than a celebration—it’s a testament to what’s possible when we invest in leadership rooted in courage, confidence, and character,” said Natasha Hemmings. “We honor those who reflect the values of the Girl Scout Movement and inspire the next generation. A heartfelt thank you to our honorees, sponsors, and community for making this morning possible.”
Adding to the inspiration were heartfelt introductions delivered by Ambassador-level Girl Scouts Alyssa P. (Troop 60243, Hillsborough), Madelyn M. (Troop 40718, Scotch Plains), and Julianna A. (Troop 40370, Scotch Plains), who each introduced an honoree and reflected on how the awards’ themes connect to their own Girl Scout journeys.
Ambassador Girl Scout Samiyah H. (Troop 40188, Hillside) also shared her personal story on stage, highlighting how Girl Scouts has shaped her path as a leader, advocate, and changemaker.
“Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey gave me the space to grow, lead, and believe in myself,” said Samiyah. “Being part of the Women of Vision Awards today reminds me how powerful it is to see leadership in action. The honorees show us that leadership isn’t just about titles—it’s about making a difference. I hope to uplift others the same way this organization and these role models have uplifted me.”
Girl Scout alumna and Lifetime Member Olivia Altidor also addressed the audience, sharing her lifelong connection to Girl Scouts and encouraging guests to support programs that develop individuals of courage, confidence, and character.
New This Year: Girl Experience Booths
This year’s Women of Vision Awards introduced Girl Experience Booths—interactive tables that allowed guests to connect with Girl Scouts and explore the wide range of activities, programs, and leadership opportunities available. Booths featured the work of the Girl Scout Leadership Center Community Design Leaders, SheStormz Robotics Team, Astro Club, Gold Award Girl Scouts, Media Girls, and National Council Delegates, offering a dynamic showcase of the Girl Scout experience in action.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
The 2025 Women of Vision Awards were made possible thanks to the generous support of sponsors: Altice USA, Construction Specialties, Paramount Assets, Peapack Private, Rey Financial Group, and PNC. Their partnership ensures that more girls across New Jersey have access to life-changing opportunities to learn, lead, and thrive.
May 09, 2025
