In Honor of Women’s History Month, AFJ Hosted A Women Of Influence Panel: Stories of Success and Resilience

In celebration of Women’s History Month, Avenues for Justice (AFJ) hosted a Women of Influence Panel, to inspire and motivate our young people as they navigate their futures. In recognition of the significant contributions that our seven panelists have made in the workforce, they shared their personal journeys centered on resiliency and shattering barriers. AFJ Participants listened intently as our panelists shared the challenges they faced professionally as women of color, including breaking into male-dominated industries in construction, the judiciary system, corporate counsel, and labor relations.

Panelists

Lishawn Alexander – Chief Executive Officer, Lishawn’s Consulting
Stephanie V. Burns – VP & Director of Workforce Development & Engagement, Turner Construction Company
Hon. Lumarie Maldonado-Cruz – Supreme Court Justice, Queens County
Hon. Janette Cortes-Gomez – Family Court Judge, Bronx County
Paige Graves – General Counsel, Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA)
Sade Malcolm – Founder and Owner, Simplicity Events
Anita Miller – Chief Labor and Employee Relations Officer, Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA)

Moderated by AFJ Job Developer Shantel Brooks, the panelists spoke candidly about overcoming gender-based challenges, the power of mentorship, and the importance of perseverance. They expounded on common obstacles they faced, growing up in the same neighborhoods as our Participants and facing peer pressure, but ultimately prioritizing educational opportunities which led to successful careers. A common theme throughout the discussion was the importance of leaning on support systems, whether from family, mentors, or AFJ program staff to gain access to resources.

Judge Maldonado-Cruz and Judge Cortes-Gomez each shared their approaches to justice. Instead of viewing the courtroom as a place of punishment, they spoke to Participants about how judges can be allies, looking beyond the charges to understand the full story behind every young person who stands before them. Their insights helped Participants see that advocacy, support, and second chances can exist even within the system. The energy in the room was vibrant, as Participants continued conversations with our panelists. AFJ Participant Anailyn, inspired by Judge Maldonado-Cruz, left feeling empowered about her potential future in law. Max, a transit enthusiast, was captivated by the insights from Paige Graves and Anita Miller of the MTA, who opened his eyes to the variety of career opportunities beyond bus and train operator positions.

Panel Reactions

“I was honored to have been in the presence of such smart, educated, and successful women and leaders. Thank you for the work you do.” - Panelist Hon. Judge Janette Cortes-Gomez

“The panelists were so gracious to share their time with our youth and were both informative and inspirational. Their sharing of personal stories of challenges and subsequent triumphs, as well as guidance as to how to be successful, helped to create a roadmap of hope for our youth." - Karen Drakeford, AFJ Licensed Clinical Social Worker

“What resonated with me most was when Paige Graves spoke about how being laid off from her job pushed her to pursue a career that truly fueled her differently. I could see that our Participants were deeply engaged, not just by the intimate setting but also by the opportunity to ask questions—the same ones my younger self would have wanted to ask.” - Coniqua Johnson-Reed, AFJ Development Manager

“I cannot thank you all enough for the opportunity to share a little bit of my journey. It is always a humbling experience. One that keeps me grounded and reminds me why I do this every day.” - Panelist Hon. Judge Lumarie Maldonado-Cruz

"I had the chance to speak with Max. I was impressed by his confidence, wit and questions. During our conversation Max mentioned his interest in transportation, including the “Queens Bus Redesign” project and other transit focused issues. I shared with him that the 'Conference of Minority Transportation Officials' offers scholarships and free memberships to high school and college students." - Panelist Anita Miller

“I thought the speakers were very authentic. Even though it was a female-led panel in honor of Women’s History Month, it had an impact on everyone in the room.” - Julia Price, AFJ Harlem Court Advocate

"Kudos to the AFJ team whose multifaceted programs immensely help youth! It was wonderful to see young people so thoroughly engaged and inspired as distinguished panelists provided invaluable life and career coaching." - Former AFJ Board Member and AFJ Supporter, Antonio Seda

As the panel wrapped up, Sade Malcolm, Founder and Owner of Simplicity Events, left AFJ Participants with a parting message which resonated throughout the room: “Resilience isn’t about feeling strong —it’s about showing up, pushing forward, and proving to yourself that you are more than capable.”

At AFJ, we are committed to ensuring that every young person who enters our program is equipped with the tools, resources, mentorship opportunities and pathways to successfully course correct.