Berkeley College, a career-focused institution, held its 10th annual Women’s Entrepreneurship event last month at the school’s Woodland Park campus.
The event, titled “Trailblazers of Today, Leaders of Tomorrow,” recognized the voices of accomplished women in business and elevated the stories of aspiring entrepreneurs on campus and in the community.
“True entrepreneurship always starts with passion,” said Stella Cicarone, a strategist who has led marketing initiatives for brands including Martha Stewart, Emeril Lagasse, and other organizations. “You have to make time every day to build what you love.”
Cicarone, who recently launched her business, Stellar View Events, presented a masterclass titled “The Business of BOLD: How to Make Your Branding Impossible to Ignore,” alongside Panagiota Babadelis, senior director, marketing and communications, Berkeley College. Cicarone spoke about brand identity, knowing your audience, the impact of artificial intelligence, and the strength of women in business.
Cicarone, a Berkeley College alumna, also shared the importance of higher education in her career journey.
“To every student at Berkeley College today, know that your education is your launchpad,” Cicarone said. “The lessons you are learning, the people you are meeting, and the courage you are building will take you further than you ever imagined.”
Diane Recinos, president of Berkeley College, presented Cicarone with the 2025 Women’s Empowerment Award. The annual award was established in 2021 to recognize the entrepreneurs and business leaders who have shared their career advice, personal experiences, and journeys to success with students and the community.
The event also featured remarks from Ashley Martinez, a Berkeley College student who is pursuing a degree in justice studies, with the goal of becoming a victims’ advocate.
“Events and programs like these are necessary to show the possibilities beyond statistics and opinions,” said Martinez, who is also an entrepreneur in the beauty industry. “Each of us carries a story – a journey marked by challenges, triumphs, and the courage to keep going even when it feels impossible. Whether you are a student still finding your path, a mother balancing responsibility, or a professional carving out a space in your field, you belong here, and your dreams are valid.”
Aamira Garba, CEO of LoveLee Wine, was a sponsor of the networking portion of the event. The winemaker from Orange shared her mission to create a path for more Black women to flourish in the wine and spirits industry.
“Since 2015 Berkeley College Women’s Entrepreneurship Week has opened doors to aspiring entrepreneurs by giving them opportunities to find mentors, gather inspiration, and connect with women in prominent positions across the professional landscape,” said Kelly J. Depsee, senior director, communications, Berkeley College.
Berkeley College, founded in 1931, is a career-focused institution that offers students master’s, bachelor’s, and associate’s degree and certificate programs in more than 20 career fields. The college also offers continuing education programs to enhance career credentials.
