“Our roots are service. Our branches are opportunity. And our legacy is hope.”

Newark, NJ — October 15, 2025 — Odyssey International Production (Odyssey IP) will celebrate its 26th Anniversary with the 2025 Business Networking Award Gala on Friday, November 14, 2025, at the Newark Museum of Art. The evening will spotlight exceptional leaders, innovators, and changemakers who uplift communities through service, entrepreneurship, and vision.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Odyssey IP empowers individuals, entrepreneurs, and communities by creating access to opportunity, connection, and sustainable growth. Founded by M. Persia Oliver, an award-winning entrepreneur and philanthropist, the organization serves as a catalyst for collaboration—bridging local businesses, civic leaders, and community organizations to strengthen the economic and social fabric of New Jersey and beyond.

“This year, we honor those who plant seeds of opportunity — people who use their power, purpose, and persistence to change lives,” said M. Persia Oliver, Founder and CEO of Odyssey IP. “Our 26th anniversary is more than a milestone — it’s a movement rooted in service, branching into opportunity, and blossoming into lasting hope.”

Programs That Build Power and Possibility

• The Power of Health & Wealth: Planting Seeds of Opportunity — a holistic initiative connecting wellness and financial empowerment to help communities thrive.
• Season of Giving Event — uniting volunteers, businesses, and families to spread joy and generosity during the holidays.
• Back-to-School Backpack Drive — providing students with the essential tools to achieve academic success.
• Community Love Celebration — championing kindness, inclusion, and connection.
• Cancer Prevention & Genetic Testing Awareness — educating families about proactive health choices and genetic awareness.
• Sleep to Achieve Initiative — delivering beds and bedding to families in need, offering stability, rest, and comfort.

2025 Odyssey International Award Honorees

This year’s distinguished honorees represent the heart of Odyssey IP’s mission—leaders who embody resilience, service, and innovation.

Legacy of Hope Award
• Dr. Sharyn N. Lewin, MD, FACS, FACOG — a trailblazing gynecologic oncologist whose work in women’s health exemplifies courage, innovation, and compassion.

Special Recognition Award of Excellence
• Dr. Dionne Ledford — visionary educator and superintendent dedicated to equity and excellence at Roseville Community Charter School.
• Reginald V. Clark — Newark Board of Education educator shaping the next generation through leadership and mentorship.

Business Award of Excellence
• Harvetta Lynch — Senior Vice President at PNC Bank, championing inclusive growth and opportunity across the Mid-Market Region.
• Erica Bell — visionary founder of Girl Talk Meetup, creating platforms that empower women and strengthen business networks.

Trailblazer Award of Excellence
• Amber T. Rodriguez — Bank of America executive redefining leadership through innovation, mentorship, and access in global banking.

Educator Award of Excellence
• Laticia Lewis — owner of SE Productions LLC, inspiring youth through creativity, education, and empowerment.

Entrepreneur Award of Excellence
• Maria Sparacio — CEO of The Pink Room Shapewear, turning empowerment into enterprise and confidence into commerce.
• Dr. Leenette Joseph & Robinson Joseph — co-founders of RLK Team Solutions Inc., driving community development through collaborative strategy.
• Hilda Mera — Co-Founder & CEO of S&A Auto Center, a dynamic entrepreneur paving the way for excellence in business leadership.
• Any P. Oliva Valera — CEO & Editor-in-Chief of A&R Media Group, amplifying diverse voices through media and storytelling.

Community Service Volunteer Award of Excellence
• Hussain Aziz — founding member of Epic Properties Real Estate Group, known for mentorship and community investment.

Kyle Abercrombie Entertainment Award of Excellence
• Erica Carrington — model and creative force using her platform to inspire authenticity, artistry, and empowerment.

Vernest C. Moore Visions Award of Excellence
• JustRaymona — designer and president of JustRaymona Inc., transforming fashion into a movement of vision and purpose.

Community Service Award of Excellence
• Dr. Anana Phifer-Derilhomme — CEO & Founder of BlessedGirl, empowering people worldwide through mentorship and service.
• Patricia Guerra Frazier — Founder & Director of Hispanic Organization for People Empowerment (H.O.P.E.), advancing equity and access in underserved communities.
• Austin Wright Sr. — owner of Wright Mixed Martial Arts Academy, empowering youth through discipline, focus, and leadership.

Tickets & Sponsorship

Tickets for the 2025 Business Networking Award Gala are available at www.OdysseyIP.com/events. For sponsorship or media inquiries, please contact info@odysseyip.com.