On Friday, October 25, SRQ MEDIA hosted its 9th Annual Together We Roar Leadership & Awards Luncheon at Michael’s on East to recognize exceptional women in the region. The celebration featured a pop-up boutique salon with fabulous gifts from local businesses, including Bookstore1, Bia Candle and Simply Jo's Boutique.

The ceremony opened with welcoming remarks from Lisl Liang, President, CEO/ Editor in Chief of SRQ Media Group who thanked event sponsors, Micheal’s on East, Saks Fifth Avenue, The Ritz Carlton Sarasota, Diamond Vault (for crafting the coveted Women Who Roar pin), Sarasota Trophy and Awards, Dolphin Transportation Specialists, Leaders Uplifted, Brsh Salon and Tropical Interiors Florist. She introduced champion partner/sponsor, Steve Altier of United Community Bank and producer sponsor, Ivory Matthews of Neal Communities and then went on to recognize the ambassadors of the Women Who Roar Leadership Circle who were in attendance at the event.

Ashley Grant, SRQ Media’s Senior Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Engagement then took the stage to introduce stand up comedian, podcaster and social media star, Elyse DeLucci, recipient of the 2024 SRQ Women Who Roar Illuminator Award, described as a woman who inspires others to live life with gusto. “Mix a dash of Mrs. Maisel with liberal shots of Fran Drescher in The Nanny and you have the essence of DeLucci’s special sauce,” said Grant. “Part best friend, confidant, honorary Italian mother, she is an absolute treasure.”

The 2023 Trailblazer Award was later presented to Kate White who has made a name for herself as a trailblazing writer, editor and speaker. “If there were ever an ambassador for the philosophy of Go Big or Go Home it would be Kate White,” Grant said.

Following the award acceptance speeches, Blair Bloomston, Founder & CEO of Leaders Uplifted, one of the most respected firms in communication, leadership and team building training, and a fabulous Leadership Circle ambassador took the stage to lead the audience in an energy-boosting interactive presentation. The special afternoon came to a close with the presentation of the 2024 Leadership Circle awards.