Girls Inc. Launches Strong. Smart. Bold. Awards to Honor Local Leaders

Girls Inc. of Boston and Lynn has established the Strong. Smart. Bold. Awards to celebrate distinguished local leaders and highlight the organization's impact. The inaugural awards ceremony will take place on November 2, 2026, at Galleria in Boston.

The event aims to convene Greater Boston's business, civic, and philanthropic communities to honor individuals whose accomplishments reflect the qualities Girls Inc. aims to instill in every girl: being strong, smart, and bold. "Boston is stronger when we lift up the women leading it today and invest in the girls who will lead it tomorrow," said Natalie Martinez, CEO of Girls Inc. of Boston and Lynn.

Prizes will be awarded in the Strong, Smart, and Bold categories. Honorees include Elaine Stokes, former Executive Vice President & Portfolio Manager at Loomis, Sayles & Company, and Massachusetts State Senator Liz Miranda, recipients of the Strong Award. Christina Gordon, Chair of the Women's Foundation of Massachusetts, will receive the Smart Award, and Boston City Councilor At-Large Ruthzee Louijeune will be honored with the Bold Award. Boston's Mayor's Office of Women's Advancement will also receive special recognition.

Girls Inc. of Boston and Lynn serves over 3,000 youth aged 5–24 across Greater Boston and Lynn, empowering them to build strength, confidence, leadership skills, and the capacity to navigate their futures. Proceeds from the event will support the organization's programs.