Staten Island Women in Business 2024: Meet the Honorees!
Staten Island’s business community is flourishing, thanks in large part to the growing presence of women in leadership roles. From influential figures in educational institutions to entrepreneurs driving small businesses, one thing is clear: women are shaping the future of the borough. Their leadership is essential not only for economic growth but also for creating a more diverse, equitable, and thriving Staten Island.
Women in high-ranking positions bring unique perspectives that help drive innovation, foster collaboration, and promote inclusivity. Entrepreneurs and business leaders on Staten Island are not only building successful companies but are also role models, inspiring the next generation of women to pursue their ambitions.
It should come as no surprise that many of the women we are featuring in this section were heavily inspired by their own mothers and grandmothers, some of whom built their own successful careers while raising children, others merely by demonstrating the qualities of a leader that any family matriarch would possess naturally.
“My mom, Rosalia (RIP), was my greatest inspiration. Her unwavering belief in me, selflessness, and devotion to family shaped my values. She taught me honesty, respect, and integrity, and the importance of keeping traditions alive as a grounding force. Through her example, I learned to lead with kindness and serve others, which has been the foundation of my work in the community. Her simple yet profound wisdom continues to guide me in everything I do.’ — Gina Biancardi, President/ Founder, The Italian Cultural Foundation
“My mother inspires me, first and foremost. She was a nurse and physician herself and I was blessed to see firsthand what a powerful woman, wife and mother looks like. She exemplifies hard work, tenacity, and selflessness in family and professional life. Elizabeth Blackwell, the first woman in America to earn a medical degree, also inspires me. She faced every challenge you can imagine, and not only accomplished her goals, but thrived and became a trailblazer for the rest of us.” — Dr. Fiona Shehaj, Chief, Women’s Cardiovascular Health, Richmond University Medical Center
“I come from a line of remarkable women, including my mother, whose unwavering work ethic inspires me daily. I also draw inspiration from activists like Yuri Kochiyama, whose dedication to human rights empowers many, artists like Frida Kahlo who inspire with their creative vision and resilience, leaders like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez exemplify the power of advocacy and businesswomen such as Leah Penniman, founder of Soul Fire Farm, who embody the importance of committing ourselves to help others.” — Kelly Vilar, Founder and CEO, Staten Island Urban Center
The contributions of women in leadership positions cannot be overstated. Their influence extends beyond the boardroom, shaping the cultural and economic landscape of Staten Island. As more women rise to leadership roles, they will continue to pave the way for future generations, demonstrating that when women lead, entire communities thrive.
We celebrate the accomplishments of successful women not to further the gender divide, but to bridge the gap created by years of imbalance in the work environment. It is no secret that women face more challenges than their male counterparts at work, ones that can impact their careers and leadership opportunities. Gender bias and stereotypes, pay inequality, work-life balance difficulties, lack of representation in leadership, and even low self-confidence are just some of the obstacles women are much more likely to face as they attempt to climb the corporate ladder than men. When women are seen in positions of authority, it challenges outdated gender norms and inspires a cultural shift toward greater equality in the workplace and beyond.
Many of the women we are honoring this year faced — and overcame — those obstacles to become a symbol of female empowerment and success. When asked what advice they’d offer their younger selves, many expressed a strong tenacity to power through those tough moments to reach their ultimate goal, offering helpful advice to any woman about to embark on her own professional journey.
“I would tell my younger self to embrace every opportunity and take risks. Trust your instincts, and don’t shy away from asking questions or seeking mentorship. Authenticity is key—stay true to who you are, as it will attract the right people and opportunities. Surround yourself with supportive individuals and adhere to your values. Finally, celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, as they all contribute to your growth and journey.” — Tatiana Arguello, Executive Director, Nonprofit Staten Island
“If I could give my younger self one piece of advice, it would be to embrace every opportunity for growth, even the challenges. I wish I had known that setbacks are just stepping stones to success.” — Dr. Chikodiri Gibson, CEO/CMO, Chi Aesthetics Medspa & Wellness Center
“Whether through my lived experience or via history, strong women have inspired me to become my own greatest asset. Learning that assertiveness doesn’t equal aggression, criticism can be constructive for growth, and that opinions and standards do not equal attitude; I am a mosaic of all the female leaders in my life.” — Jennifer Larsen, Associate Executive Director, On Your Mark
Our Staten Island Women in Business section aims to highlight just a few of the women making waves in our borough, but we know that there are countless other such women leading the way forward in our local business community. We hope that even more women are encouraged to follow their passions and continue to show the wider community that women are here, they’re powerful, and they’re excelling in the business world.
