To mark a successful silver anniversary, Odyssey International Production will honor the behind-the-scenes heroes that have been going above and beyond in their commitment to community development

Odyssey International Production (Odyssey IP) has officially announced the date for its 2024 Business Networking Award Gala, set to take place on November 22, 2024. This significant event will commemorate the organization’s 25th anniversary and celebrate the often-unrecognized contributions of everyday heroes. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Odyssey IP has dedicated itself to uplifting underprivileged communities by empowering women, children, and marginalized populations. They are currently inviting partnerships and sponsorships for the gala.

Founded by M. Persia Oliver, a woman entrepreneur and philanthropist, Odyssey IP stands as an inspiring example for the nation’s youth. Her commitment to promoting diversity, inclusivity, and women’s empowerment has not gone unnoticed. The organization has played a vital role in supporting start-ups and family-owned businesses, championing innovative ideas that frequently face challenges due to limited resources. By connecting small businesses with established institutions, Odyssey IP fosters a more integrated entrepreneurial ecosystem that strengthens the domestic economy.

Persia’s passionate dedication to social work and her service to underserved communities have earned her numerous accolades, including recognition as one of New Jersey’s Top 25 Leading Women Entrepreneurs, a position on Diversity Plus Magazine’s Top 25 Women in Power Impacting Diversity list, and the prestigious Shirley Chisholm Award for Public Affairs.

Among Odyssey IP’s most impactful initiatives are holiday celebrations for families in need, aimed at bringing joy and normalcy to their lives. The Tie-A-Tie Drive has successfully equipped young men with professionalism, while the Back-to-School Backpack Drive ensures every child has the necessary tools for learning. The upcoming Community Love event is highly anticipated, promoting sharing and acts of kindness. Additionally, Odyssey IP is dedicated to raising awareness about cancer prevention through its community event focused on understanding genetic testing, aiming to educate and empower individuals about their health. The Sleep to Achieve initiative also provides beds and bedding to those in need, offering comfort and stability.

The media spokesperson released a detailed statement from the organization, highlighting the notable attendees who will receive awards and recognition. Calvin R. Ledford Jr., President of the PSEG Foundation and Director of Corporate Social Responsibility at Public Service Enterprise Group Inc., will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding commitment to corporate social responsibility and community impact. The recipients of the Outstanding Achievement Award of Excellence are Georges Joseph, Regional Sales Manager at Myriad Genetics Inc., and Dr. Luis A. Gonzalez, MD, MPH, Uveitis Specialist and Vitreoretinal Surgeon at NJRetina Northern Jersey, for their commitment to equitable, affordable, and more accessible healthcare across New Jersey. The fashion industry revolutionary force Veronica James, a costume designer and wardrobe stylist, for her people-first approach to promoting sustainable and cruelty-free fashion, will receive the Trailblazer Award of Excellence.

After much discussion for the Special Recognition Award of Excellence, Leslie Anderson, President and CEO of the New Jersey Redevelopment Authority (NJRA), and Gus Penaranda, Executive Director of the NJ Pride Chamber of Commerce, are decided upon as well-deserved individuals for the award for their tireless efforts to revive communities and advocacy for the LGBTQ+ business community, respectively. Adonis Abreu, Manager of Outreach & Operation Support at NJ Transit’s Office of Business Development (OBD), will receive the Business Award of Excellence for his services and sheer commitment to community development. Julia Barney, MAT & Ed.S., Newark Public Schools teacher and owner of BARNEY The Pre-K Teacher LLC, will be honored with the Educator Award of Excellence for her distinctive work in education and community development. Dr Patricia Campos-Medina’s work for better social justice and the development of labor rights qualifies her for the Community Activist Award of Excellence. She is a labor educator, academic researcher, and political leader.

Next in line, the Vernest C. Moore Vision Award of Excellence will be given to ShaVi Lewis of ShaVi Lewis The Studio for her hard work in the development of the art industry. The Entrepreneur Award of Excellence has selected six accomplished individuals as deserving this year. The names include Jennifer Tran, owner of Tea-RX Cafe; Violet Marrero, founder and CEO of Thrive in Relationships; Jessica A. Johnson-Cope, president and principal of Johnson Security Bureau Inc.; Carrie Booker, event planner and co-owner of KPR The Venue; Shanique Taliaferro, visionary and founder of Black Women New Jersey (BWNJ); and Gladys Vonglahn, founder and CEO of Glady’s Cleaning Service. Samuel C. Arnold, President & Manager of Perry Funeral Home Inc., Dr Diane Hill, Assistant Chancellor of University-Community Partnership at Rutgers University Newark, NJ, and Ligia Spencer De Freitas, Deputy Mayor of the City of Newark, NJ, will be honored with the Community Service Award of Excellence.

The celebration night will feature a vibrant display of magenta, fuchsia, purple, and silver decor, creating a regal and cherishing atmosphere. The event will also reminisce on Odyssey IP’s achievements and successes and present its potential future endeavors.

To buy tickets, please visit https://www.odysseyip.com/. For potential partnerships, collaborations, or donations, please contact at https://www.odysseyip.com/contact. To become part of the event through paid partnership or become a sponsor, please get in touch with Persia Oliver via her email.