MEET OUR PAST 2018 EMERGE AWARD HONOREES!
In 2018, we honored 3 extraordinary women who have made an impact using their gifts to help other women to "eMErge®"!
FIRST LADY SERITA A. JAKES
Serita A. Jakes is an author, speaker and visionary. She serves alongside her husband, Bishop T. D. Jakes of the legendary 30,000-member Dallas-based church, The Potter’s House. Mrs. Jakes serves as executive director of women’s and children’s affairs at The Potter’s House, where she oversees the internationally acclaimed God’s Leading Ladies Life Enrichment Program, the nationally acclaimed Distinctively Debs Youth Program for academically astute girls, and Starting Over, a ministry committed to the betterment of women who encounter life altering challenges such as abuse, divorce, joblessness and grief.
GWENDOLYN JONES
Gwendolyn Jones founded ARISE! International, Inc (Adults in Recovery and Informed Against Sexual Exploitation) during her journey of recovery which began in 1994 from the effects of sexual violence as an adolescent, by her step-father. ARISE! International, Inc. is a faith based organization which operates on Christian principles and utilizes Scripture and prayer for truth and guidance. Their mission is to help survivors of sexual violence heal emotionally, socially and spiritually from the devastating effects of inappropriate sexual behavior. Since its inception, they have helped countless women to find help and healing through support and sisterhood.
DEBra BOWLES
Debra Bowles is the founder and president of Women Called Moses, a nonprofit organization that helps battered women and their children. Her passion for this is driven by her own personal experiences with domestic abuse in her childhood and as an adult. Debra is committed to helping others achieve their “Goals of Excellence” and has devoted countless hours to educate and empower individuals that are affected by domestic violence. She is committed to helping others overcome obstacles, break down barriers, and ACHIEVE!