NJFDW celebrates distinguished leaders whose public service, advocacy, professional achievement, and commitment to community are creating lasting change across Essex County and beyond

NEW JERSEY — The New Jersey Federation of Democratic Women (NJFDW) proudly hosted its Excellence in Community Leadership Awards Ceremony, “When Women Lead, Change Follows,” on Saturday, October 17, recognizing an exceptional group of changemakers whose leadership, service, advocacy, and dedication continue to strengthen communities throughout Essex County and New Jersey.

The celebration brought together Democratic leaders, community advocates, public servants, professionals, activists, and supporters to recognize individuals who embody the power of leadership rooted in service.

“When Women Lead, Change Follows” reflects the central mission of NJFDW: to unite and promote women of the Democratic Party, support women leaders, and encourage the full participation of women at every level of the Democratic Party structure. Through networking, community activism, civic engagement, and mutual support, NJFDW works to create opportunities for women to lead, influence public policy, and make meaningful contributions to their communities.

The organization was especially proud to recognize leaders whose work demonstrates that meaningful change happens when individuals are willing to serve, advocate, mentor, organize, and open doors for others.

2026 Excellence in Community Leadership Honorees

Honorable Blonnie Watson
Former Freeholder President & Community Advocate

Tara Dowdell
President, Tara Dowdell Group & MSNBC Political Analyst

Blanca Lopez
Retired Essex County Sheriff’s Officer

Tajalah Bell, BSN, RN
Vice President, Essex County Young Democrats

Monica Honis
Former Bergen County Elected Official & Community Activist

John Robinson
Director/Senior Clinical Scientist & CEO, Gotta Go Gaming Hub

Aziza Kibibi
Author, Activist, Entrepreneur, Survivor & Advocate for Aziza’s Law

Renada M. Williams, Esq.
Senior Vice President/General Counsel, Kenneth Cole Productions

Honorable Assemblywoman Rosaura Bagolie
New Jersey Legislative District 27

Sara Pena
Director, PSE&G

Honorable Renee Baskerville
Mayor of Montclair

Keith DaCosta
Executive Director, CareSparc Community Connections

The honorees represent a wide range of fields and experiences, but they share a common commitment: using leadership as a vehicle for service and positive change. Their contributions span government, public safety, healthcare, business, law, advocacy, community development, civic engagement, and the nonprofit sector.

“This celebration is about recognizing people who understand that leadership is not simply a title—it is a responsibility to serve, to advocate, and to create opportunities for others,” said [President, Bessie Walker]. “Our honorees have demonstrated that commitment in extraordinary ways. Their work reminds us that when women lead—and when communities support courageous, inclusive leadership—change truly follows.”

NJFDW operates under the umbrella of the National Federation of Democratic Women (NFDW), an organization dedicated to advancing women’s participation and leadership within the Democratic Party. The NFDW holds representation within the Democratic National Committee, including one seat on the DNC Executive Committee and three seats on the DNC general committee.

Through programs, partnerships, political engagement, and community-based initiatives, NJFDW continues to build a stronger network of Democratic women and allies committed to public service, civic participation, and developing the next generation of leaders.

The “When Women Lead, Change Follows” Excellence in Community Leadership Awards Ceremony served not only as a celebration of achievement, but also as a call to action: to continue building pathways for women to lead, ensuring that diverse voices are represented at decision-making tables, and recognizing the community leaders whose everyday work moves New Jersey forward.