On October 7th, The Centre for Women welcomed entrepreneur and designer Gretchen Bauer, founder of BSWANKY, for an energizing Women’s Leadership Luncheon that blended candid insights with community celebration. In a lively conversation moderated by Bridgette Bello, CEO & Publisher for TBBW, Bauer shared lessons from building a purpose-driven brand, the importance of risk-taking, and how women leaders can scale impact without sacrificing values.

Hosted at the Westshore Yacht Club, the afternoon featured exceptional hospitality and a vibrant room of business, civic, and philanthropic leaders. The event was presented by E&Y, with special thanks to Board Vice President Christy Rolland for championing this gathering. Guests also enjoyed special-opportunity prizes curated by Gretchen and a beautiful diamond pendant donated by the Diamond International Center, adding sparkle to an already memorable program.

Proceeds from the luncheon power The Centre for Women’s mission across Tampa Bay—fueling the Women’s Business Centre for entrepreneurs, Counseling & Wellness services, Tampa Bay Works for Women career programs, and critical home-repair assistance for seniors. Together, these services open doors to economic mobility, mental well-being, and stability for thousands of women and families each year.

Thank you to our sponsors, partners, and every attendee who showed up, leaned in, and invested in women’s leadership. To stay involved—become a sponsor, join our League of Extraordinary Women, or make a gift—visit The Centre for Women and be part of what’s next.

For more information about the luncheon; go to the Women’s Leadship Luncheon with Gretchen Bauer Event Page

Our 33rd Annual Gourmet Feastival was a glittery, groovy, gourmet getaway as guests danced, dined, and sang along to Almost ABBA. Sequins sparkled, bell bottoms swayed, and disco fever filled the air while more than 30 of Tampa Bay’s best restaurants, breweries, and distilleries served up irresistible bites and sips.

From the moment the first canapé was passed to the last high note of “Dancing Queen,” the room was buzzing with joy, laughter, and the spirit of giving. Guests boogied between tasting tables, bid on fabulous auction items, and took home hearts full of gratitude—knowing they were supporting The Centre for Women’s life-changing programs.

Bloom TV Anchor Gayle Guyardo was the perfect guide to having the time of our lives. Julie Ward took the stage to share how proud TECO was to empower the community as presenting sponsor of Feastival, helping keep the fun – and the future – bright.

It was truly a night of “Thank You for the Music,” delicious flavors, and the kind of community magic that can only happen when 1,000 people come together for a great cause. Until next year… Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! another Feastival just like this!

For more information; go to the 2025 Gourmet Feastival Event Page

A Waves of Change to Remember! 

What an incredible success this year’s Women’s Leadership Luncheon turned out to be! With the incomparable Brooke Shields as our national honoree, the room was filled with inspiration, empowerment, and a whole lot of wow! 

The tidal wave of positive response that has followed is proof that when strong women come together, unstoppable change happens. Thank you to everyone who attended, supported, and helped make this event a momentous celebration of leadership, resilience, and the power of women lifting each other up.

An enthusiastic audience of 675 attendees packed the festive ballroom at the Tampa Convention Center. Channel 8’s Deiah Riley kept the program entertaining and on track. 

A heartfelt thank you to our Presenting Sponsors — The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Valley Bank — and to all the amazing supporters, sponsors, and attendees—your generosity and passion fuel our mission and create lasting change. This event would not be possible without you!

To our local honoree, Dr. Moira J. Burke, congratulations on your well-deserved recognition. Your dedication continues to inspire us all. Special thanks to Honorary Chair Darcie Glazer Kassewitz, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor, Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, Valley Bank’s Angelie Spurling, 2025 Waves Chair Renee Vaughn and Board President Elizabeth Hapner for each playing a significant role in the celebration. 

Together, we are making waves and shaping a brighter future. 

Here’s to keeping the momentum going—because this wave is only getting bigger!

This year’s Gourmet Feastival theme was Tropical Nights: A Tribute to Jimmy Buffett. This fabulous food fest didn’t disappoint the more than 1,000 people who came out to enjoy signature dishes from Tampa Bay’s finest restaurants and beverage purveyors.

Yes, it was a foodie heaven, with fabulous entertainment from Billy Lindsey with his “Tribute to Jimmy,” and an impressive silent auction filled with unique items.  

The tropical vibes were flowing the entire night.  We are so glad that you came out for this fun-filled night. It will be hard to surpass this event!