Pictured from top left to bottom right: Keynote Speaker - Lori Conrad, Masonite International; 2024 International Person of the Year - Consuelo Sanchez, Florida's Sports Coast; Laura Bedingfield Memorial Undergraduate Scholarship Recipients - Alyce Yoder and Mia Johnson. 

Tampa Bay, FL (September 24, 2024): For nearly 30 years, since 1997, the Tampa Bay Organization of Women in International Trade (TBOWIT) has empowered women in the region to excel in international business. As part of the OWIT umbrella and a network of 27 chapters with over 2,000 professionals worldwide, TBOWIT fosters international-focused education, networking, and scholarships for its members.

TBOWIT will celebrate the achievements of the organization and community leaders during the TBOWIT Annual Awards & Scholarship Luncheon on October 10, 2024. An inspiring keynote will be titled “Passport to Your Future” by Lori Conrad, Director of External Communications at Masonite International. This year, Consuelo Sanchez, Tourism Deputy Director at Florida's Sports Coast, will be honored as the 2024 International Person of the Year for globally representing our community in international sports tourism events and conferences. Sanchez has been playing a pivotal role in developing Florida’s Sports Coast brand and significantly elevating the national and global awareness of Florida’s Sports Coast brand. Sanchez has also been leading valuable international efforts and affairs while fostering meaningful connections and relationships that promote our community as a destination. Additionally, TBOWIT will present the Laura Bedingfield Memorial Undergraduate Scholarships to Alyce Yoder and Mia Johnson, both of whom are currently studying at the University of Tampa. Congratulations to all the honorees!

Jennie Sammur, the 2024-2025 President, is leading TBOWIT in its new chapter with a vision that is both inspiring and forward-thinking. Sammur states, "It has been a privilege to build on TBOWIT's strong foundation and expand our reach to empower even more women in Tampa Bay to succeed in the international business community. We will offer exciting new programming and host events connecting members with industry leaders like Lori Conrad and Consuelo Sanchez." Sammur is CEO of TP & JS Enterprises, where she assists foreign and Florida businesses in connecting with the resources to expand their global footprint. Sammur has an extensive background in international affairs, real estate/site selection, community development, and leading international economic development projects. Her forward-thinking vision promises an exciting future for TBOWIT and its members.

Supported by a dedicated board of local international businesswomen, TBOWIT remains steadfast in its commitment to providing its members with valuable resources and connections to thrive in the global marketplace. With such a diverse industry mix in the Tampa Bay region, including international trade, business policies and regulations, commerce, supply chains, and more, TBOWIT offers networking business-focused events throughout the year. These events are designed to cater to our members' unique needs and interests, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their specific industry, feels included and part of our vibrant community.

Join TBOWIT and Expand Your Global Network

Join a group of powerful women in international business right here in Tampa Bay and learn to strengthen your reach, expand your business, and make lasting connections. Visit www.tbowit.org to learn about TBOWIT and register to attend or sponsor the upcoming awards luncheon.