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WRMSDC'S 2024 EXCELLENCE IN SUPPLIER DIVERSITY AWARDS GALA & FUNDRAISER

The Gala reflects a kaleidoscope of cultures, talents, and abilities, sending a powerful message that every individual is a star in their own right. Step right up to a grand celebration of diversity! This extraordinary event is a dazzling fusion of the enchanting world of "The Greatest Showman" and the vibrant spirit of diversity. Guests will be transported into a realm where individuality takes center stage. We encourage you to embrace your true selves and identities.

Join us under the glittering lights of this celebration, where the circus meets celebration, and love for oneself and others takes center stage. It's a night to remember, where the extraordinary becomes the norm, and acceptance is the greatest show of all.

During our 2024 Excellence in Supplier Diversity Awards Gala & Fundraiser, “This is Me: A Grand Celebration of Diversity,” join us as we honor the inspiring deeds of our MBEs, Corporate Members, and Partners who made deep impressions in 2023. The winners of our Excellence in Supplier Diversity Awards competition will be announced LIVE at the event.

Mission

We support the growth and welfare of minority communities by championing the use of minority-owned businesses in Northern California, Nevada, and Hawai‘i.

Date & Time

Friday, May 10th
6:00PM - 11:00PM

Location

Oakland Scottish Rite
1547 Lakeside Dr.
Oakland, CA 94612

TICKETS

ALL SALES ARE FINAL; NO REFUNDS!
Please *do not* purchase a ticket and ask for a refund, as we will not be able to accommodate you.

Corporate Members: use the code “G24-CORP” for $50 off
Diverse suppliers: use the code “G24-DB” for $50 off

Event Supporters, Premier Members, MBE Platinum Partners, & Make a Difference Supporters: Watch for a separate email describing how to register & claim your benefits.
Questions? Email sheena@wrmsdc.org

If you don't know how to use the discount code, please email carissa@storyvillerd.com for help!
ALL SALES ARE FINAL; NO REFUNDS!
Please *do not* purchase a ticket and ask for a refund, as we will not be able to accommodate you.

Corporate Members: use the code “G24-CORP” for $50 off
Diverse suppliers: use the code “G24-DB”for $50 off

Supporters

Please support our Gala! Click here for options:

Support The Gala

Gala Event Supporters

Make a Difference Supporters

Premier Members

MBE Platinum Partners

ANNUAL VIDEO PRODUCTION SUPPORTER

Awardees

Agenda

All times listed are in Pacific Daylight Time and activities may change

6:00 P.M. ⭐ Check-In & Reception
⭐ Food Stations
⭐ Live DJ
⭐ Networking
8:00 P.M. ⭐ Awards Show
Master of Ceremonies
Donna Ruff
President/CEO
WRMSDC
Master of Ceremonies
Christine Maddela
Managing Partner/Owner
Storyville Road
Master of Ceremonies
Roger Cheng
Sr. Supplier Diversity Sourcing Manager
AT&T
Headliner
Charis Garcia
Client Relationship & Business Development Manager
Diversified Protection Corporation
MBEIC Chair
Gerald Johnson
Principal & MBEIC Chair
Sabacon Consulting
Michael Balistreri
Vice President, Strategic Accounts Services and Law
Robert Half Inc.
Shabana Siraj
Founder & CEO
Trident Consulting
Florence McCrary
Director
Gilead
Debbie Marrs
Vice President, Enterprise Accounts
AMN Healthcare
Brian de Jong
Senior Vice President - Enterprise Strategic Client Solutions
AMN Healthcare
Lili Kwan
Senior Manager, Racial Equality and Justice Taskforce - Purchasing
Salesforce
9:45 P.M. ⭐ Afterparty
⭐ Late Night Snacks & Desserts
⭐ Dancing
⭐ Networking
11:00 P.M. ⭐ Gala Ends

Keynote Speaker

Sheryl Grant

TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADER, SPEAKER,
DOT CONNECTOR.

SHERYL GRANT IS A CATALYST FOR PERSONAL TRANSFORMATION AND TRANSFORMATONAL LEADERSHIP.

Sheryl Grant is a transformational leader and catalyst at the intersection of three of the most significant US economic, cultural and social trends; the economic power of the Baby Boomers, the rise of women of color executives and entrepreneurs, and the rapidly growing interest in health, wellness and longevity. Globally recognized for her tenured success as a 30+ year Silicon Valley veteran and revered for sharing her inspiring journey to Ms. Olympia fitness at age 57, Sheryl consistently seeks to elevate all stakeholders aiming to scale their impact globally.

Sheryl is the architect and creator of FIT for Life (Faith Intuition and Tenacity) which includes programming, content and resources dedicated to helping all women, particularly women of color, to break through self-imposed barriers and limitations to achieve success in career, business, life and beyond! Tens of thousands have experienced the impact of her mentorship and tens of millions have been inspired by her journey.

With her goal to reach 50 million individuals globally and unwavering commitment to physical health and mental wellness, Ms. Grant has become a leading AgeTech advocate, resource for ambitious individuals and global advocate for innovative brands seeking empower those who want to live their best, abundant and healthiest lives.

Sheryl also holds her Masters in Leadership from St. Marys College.

To Learn More, Visit https://www.sherylgrant.com/

Entertainment

DANCE BATTLE

Prepare to be transported to an electrifying arena where rhythm reigns supreme and every movement pulses with passion! Hold onto your seat as the CA team Electric Elegance battles the NV team Boogie Brigade, showcasing their mastery of movement and unparalleled creativity, all to raise funds to further WRMSDC's mission of impacting communities of color.

Who will win your vote with their artistry, energy, and command of the stage?
Captain
Roger Cheng,
AT&T
Name:
Ridiculiss
Erwin Villanueva,
Saitech
Name:
Eezy-E
Sharla Sullivan,
Webcor
Name:
Rhythm Rebel
Shabana Siraj,
Trident Consulting
Name:
Thalaivi

Support Team
CALIFORNIA
Electric Elegance

Captain
Rhoda Hassad,
MGM Resorts International
Name:
R. Boogie
Ray Arzate,
Storyville RD
Name:
Biggie Boogie
Karmin Bailey,
Southwest Gas
Name:
K Boogie
Juanny Romero,
Mothership Coffee LLC
Name:
Queen Juantifah

Support Team
NEVADA
Boogie Brigade

Ranjani Mohana,
R Mo Global Diversity Solutions
Name:
The Certification Lady
Mick Penn,
Swinerton
Name:
MC Mickey Hype
Scott Vowels,
Apple
Name:
MC 1X
Lili Kwan,
Salesforce
Name:
Lili-Palooza
Lynn Reddrick,
Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco
Name:
Lynnsanity
Babi Thapa,
Shirubaa
Name:
BabiTangoTyrant

EVENT ACTIVITES

Grab a Glass of Bubbly Welcome Champagne!

As you step into our enchanting gala, prepare to be greeted with a glass of bubbly served by our elegant champagne dress hostess, setting the tone for an evening of glamour and celebration!

Photo Fun! Get Your Picture Drawn by our Caricaturist

Visit our caricature station and let the show begin! We're offering you the chance to have your portrait transformed into a one-of-a-kind "masterpiece". Our talented caricature artist will be ready to capture your essence with a twist! NOTE: only limited slots available due to time constraints! Get to the Gala early to be one of the first in line.

Hula-Hoop Fun

Prepare to be mesmerized as an LED-lit hula-hoop artist dazzles with performances right on the dance floor, adding a touch of magic to our grand celebration of diversity! Be sure to take photos for your own social media!

360 Photo Booth Spinner

Take center stage on the 360 Spinner. Either alone or as a group, you’ll be able to create your very own 360 degree slow-motion video, GIF or boomerang, all with a touch of that Hollywood glitz and glamor!

Boomerang Photo Roamer

Experience a completely unique photo experience! Get your group together (or do it solo) and get your boomerang picture done right on the spot!

Know Before You Go

Coming Soon!

Hotels

SUGGESTED HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS

Oakland Marriott City Center
1001 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94607
  • 4 Stars on Tripadvisor
  • 1 mile from Oakland Scottish Rite
  • This hotel offers the following amenities:
    • Valet Parking
    • Wifi
    • Complimentary breakfasts, desserts, and hors-d’oeuvres at M Club on-site
    • Iron & Oak Restaurant and Bar for on-site dining
Hampton Inn Oakland Downtown - City Center
378 11th St, Oakland, CA 94607
  • 4 Stars on Tripadvisor
  • 0.8 miles from Oakland Scottish Rite
  • This hotel offers the following amenities:
    • Valet Parking
    • Free High Speed Internet (Wifi)
    • Complimentary hot breakfast
    • 2-minute walk from 12th St. Oakland City Center train station
Courtyard by Marriott Oakland Downtown
988 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94607
  • 4 Stars on Tripadvisor
  • 1 mile from Oakland Scottish Rite
  • This hotel offers the following amenities:
    • On-site Convenience store
    • Valet Parking

Access

Please contact sheena@wrmsdc.org if you have access questions or require accommodations to comfortably participate in the Gala. During the registration process, we ask each attendee for any accommodations they may need, including materials provided in formats like large print, text-only, electronic files, etc.; communication aids like American Sign Language (ASL) interpreting, other interpreting, etc.; and other needs.

Attire

Step right up, ladies and gentlemen, because this year we’re rolling out the red carpet with all the pizzazz and dazzle of the hit movie, "The Greatest Showman"! Come dressed to impress in your unique flair, just like the colorful characters on the big screen; Victorian-inspired fashion with a modern twist, featuring bold colors, luxurious fabrics, intricate detailing, and a touch of whimsy. It's not just a Gala, it's a WRMSDC extravaganza where your style steals the show!

Silent Auction

Contact

WRMSDC supports the growth and welfare of minority communities by championing the use of minority-owned businesses in Northern California, Nevada, and Hawai‘i. Our parent organization, the National Minority Supplier Development Council, helps over 12,000 minority businesses connect with major Fortune 500 corporations and their buyers every year. Please visit us online at www.wrmsdc.org.

Please contact sheena@wrmsdc.org for questions about the event.


Contact Us

WRMSDC Headquarters
80 Swan Way
Oakland, CA 94621
(510) 686-2555