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Special Service Area #31 – Servicing areas on Clark, Damen, Lawrence, Montrose, Wilson and along the Ravenswood corridor. Tickets include access to all experiences, your first drink, and snacks from women-owned businesses.
Registration closes at noon on Wednesday, May 21st. Tickets are limited.
Grow your network while connecting with inspiring women leaders, entrepreneurs, and artisans!
The Greater Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to invite you to our Women Leaders in Business: Spring Showcase on Thursday, May 21st at KOVAL Distillery. This special program celebrates the incredible women leaders who continue to shape and strengthen our community. All are welcome.
The event will kick off with an inspiring panel of women entrepreneurs hosted in the distillery, offering insights, stories, and practical wisdom from their journeys. Following the panel, guests will move to the tasting room for open networking and an interactive showcase featuring women-owned businesses.
Attendees will enjoy mini-makeup sessions from Chicago Makeup School, mini acupuncture sessions with Thistle & Thorne, a dried floral bar hosted by Indigo & Violet Studio, ice cream tastings from Bartleby’s Ice Cream, and bites from Spoken Cafe. Join us for an evening of connection, inspiration, and celebration with the women leaders, entrepreneurs, and creatives who make Ravenswood thrive!
Meet Our Panel
Dr. Sonat Birnecker-Hart
KOVAL Distillery
Dr. Sonat Birnecker-Hart is the co-founder and President of KOVAL Distillery, one of the largest independent, woman-owned craft distilleries in the United States. A former tenured professor, she transitioned into entrepreneurship to build a globally recognized spirits brand now distributed in over 55 countries. She is an award-winning business leader and active civic contributor, serving on boards including the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority.
Elea Nielsen
Erwin Law
Elea Nielsen is the lead Estate Planning and Probate attorney with Erwin Law, a local small business for over thirty years. Elea’s practice focuses on providing strategic, client-centered counsel to entrepreneurs, families, individuals, and organizations. She is dedicated to providing a personal touch when helping clients navigate legal complexities and achieving long-term success.
Jackie Taylor
Black Ensemble Theater
Jackie Taylor is the founder and CEO of the Black Ensemble Theater, a nationally recognized cultural institution she launched in 1976. An acclaimed playwright, producer, and performer, she has written and produced more than 100 original works and is a leading voice in using the arts to combat racism and foster community dialogue. Her decades-long impact has earned her numerous awards and recognition as a transformative leader in American theater.
Dr. Bianka Hardin
Centered Therapy Chicago
Dr. Bianka Hardin is a licensed clinical psychologist and owner of Centered Therapy Chicago, where she specializes in supporting individuals navigating trauma, identity, and life transitions. Her approach integrates evidence-based practices with a culturally responsive, client-centered lens. She is committed to helping clients build insight, resilience, and meaningful change in their lives.
Erica Trejo
Sail Her Dreams
Erica Trejo is the founder of Sail Her Dreams, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering young women through sailing, mentorship, and leadership development. Through her work, she expands access to maritime opportunities for underrepresented communities while fostering confidence and career exploration. She is a passionate advocate for equity, youth development, and experiential learning on and off the water.
Yasmeen Musa
EmpowerFit Chicago
Yasmeen Musa is the owner of EmpowerFit Chicago, where she helps people feel stronger—in both body and mind—while building a supportive, connected community. With a Master’s degree in Psychology, she blends fitness with a deep understanding of human behavior to support lasting change. Yasmeen is passionate about creating inclusive, empowering spaces that meet people where they are and help them reconnect with their inner strength, confidence, and resilience.
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