Who says Melanin magic isn’t possible? Cheresa Purnell can make you a believer when she brings 40 Under 40 Young Women Professionals all in one room to praise, congratulate, and collaborate. As she told Gyrlversion host Shartia Divine “Yes you can sit here” so we took a seat at the table to enjoy 40 women being inaugurated into a pool of wealth and ambition.
The organization started in 2015 as Cheresa Purnell spoke to her mentor on the issues she had with the stereotype that “black women” didn’t work together. So what do you do when you have an issue? … You solve it. The support group was developed to honor and recognize young women who are rising leaders making an impact in their field. On November 14th, 2019 Cheresa celebrated her 4th year ceremony inducting 40 new members into this dynamic platform. In celebration of her 4th year Cheresa also decided to pitch in a little surprise that has never been done before with the league. Gyrlversion was the first to break the news, as Shartia owned in on the details. Cheresa, “We are actually going to be starting what we call our Pretty Little Masterminds, which will enable other women to join and be a part of the organization, so I’m excited about that.”
The female power filled the room with a special drop in from future Chicago Mayor Amara Enyia. Amara Enyia is a public policy consultant and political activist who has been supported and endorsed by Kanye West and Chance The Rapper. Amara has ran before, but ended up dropping out of the race. This year she is more than ready as she dropped some Gems during her speech. Amara also received an award from 40 Under 40 YWPL.
The night was hosted by the Bravo’s T.V star, the beautiful Nakita Nicci with Co-host Dometi Pongo. Somehow Jill Scott entered the building and apparently sold multiple tickets to a special guest.
The entertainment had us “coming” with poet K Love.
We rose to celebrate with song and was graced with more Gems by mentor and the CEO of Demoiselle 2 Femme, Sherida Morrison.
Greatness flowed throughout the building as all 40 women were inducted.
It was a powerful night with many more to come as 40 Under 40 opens extended league opportunity to women of all ages. It is a move you don’t want to miss.
