Background
The Women of Concern Awards Luncheon is a celebration of the accomplishments of women and girls around the world and Concern Worldwide's work to break the cycle of poverty by improving livelihoods — helping to financially empower women and their communities through improved income-generating activities, business training, and grants. This year’s Women of Concern Awards Luncheon will highlight Concern’s “Graduation” Program that does exactly that.
We hope you will join us for the Women of Concern Awards Luncheon that has for over 25 years propelled us towards an equitable future while paying tribute to those who embody justice, generosity, and compassion in their work and daily lives.
All proceeds support Concern Worldwide’s Women & Girls Fund, an always-on approach to collecting and deploying funds that reach women and girls who are disproportionately impacted by conflict, climate shocks, extreme hunger, and economic instability within the communities we partner with across 25 countries.
Honoree: Melissa Ben-Ishay
Melissa Ben-Ishay is the Co-Founder & CEO of Baked by Melissa, the NYC-based dessert brand famous for its handcrafted bite-size cupcakes and treats. Now in its 16th year of business, Baked by Melissa operates 11 retail locations and an online storefront with nationwide shipping. With its highly acclaimed assortment of handmade flavors, gift boxes for every occasion and custom shipping packaging, Baked by Melissa has become a premiere gifting destination across the U.S.
In 2020 Melissa gained popularity on TikTok with videos of her salads and everyday meals like her viral Green Goddess salad. She has since been recognized as one of the internet's most influential recipe creators by INSIDER, Mashed, Yahoo and more, and has been featured on the Drew Barrymore Show, TODAY Show, and GMA to name a few. Her newest cookbook, Come Hungry was released January 2024 and became an instant New York Times bestseller. Today, Melissa continues to share everyday meals with her community cupcakes. Follow Melissa at @bakedbymelissa on TikTok and Instagram, and visit bakedbymelissa.com for more.
Host & Auctioneer: Sophie Colgan
Sophie is originally from Ireland and has been working with nonprofits and charities in New York for 8 years. She is a Master of Ceremonies and Auctioneer, and has already fundraised over half a million dollars for non profits on stage in 2024. Sophie ran the NYC Marathon in 2018 for Concern and is passionate about supporting the work Concern does. She is known for her infectious energy and trademark Irish charm.
Moderator: Gemma Allen
Gemma Allen is a New York based writer, communications, and marketing consultant. She has almost 20 years of experience in the technology industry, advising C-level executives on international growth strategy since 2015. Her expertise spans government relations, go-to-market strategy, and corporate development. A Forbes contributor since 2023, Allen focuses on female advancement and the technology industry. Her work spans topics like the role of AI in women’s everyday lives and the impact of female change agents. She was raised in Ireland, has an MSc from University College Dublin, and is a prominent member of the Irish-American business community, holding various board positions. She also writes for Nasdaq on the nexus of technology and culture. Follow Allen for insights into the lived realities of female employees, founders, leaders, and mothers.
Women of Concern Co-Chairs
