The Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce will recognize six exceptional women at Women of Influence, a signature event honoring leadership, dedication, and impact within the local business community. Taking place on Thursday, March 6, 2025, at Sunrider International, the event will highlight individuals who have strengthened industries, fostered connections, and contributed to the growth of businesses and organizations throughout the region.
In addition to the awards presentation, Rheina Ale, Head Coach of Women’s Basketball at Bishop Montgomery High School, will deliver the keynote address. Known for her leadership both on and off the court, Ale has dedicated her career to shaping young athletes into confident, disciplined individuals who carry the lessons of teamwork and perseverance into their professional lives.
This year’s Women of Influence honorees are:
- Athena Award – Sister Terrence Landini, Providence Little Company of Mary
- Community Catalyst – Sacha Duncan, Malaga Bank
- Dedicated Leader – Kim Turner, City of Torrance Transit Center
- Inspirational Leader – Athena Paquette Cormier, Mortgage Advisor
- Small Business Award – Casey Schwartz & Kit Wertz, Flower Duet
- South Bay Spirit Award – Belma Demirovic Chinchoy, Immigration General Counsel
Each of these honorees has made a lasting impact in their field, demonstrating leadership, innovation, and dedication to their community. For some, this recognition carries personal significance, reflecting years of commitment to the Torrance area and the businesses within it.
“This award is particularly important to me—having grown up in Torrance and spent most of my life here, being a catalyst for the community is such an honor. To be recognized for my support of Torrance and my participation in community events—I’m just thrilled.” – Sacha Duncan, Community Catalyst Award, Malaga Bank
Duncan also spoke about her involvement with the Chamber, saying, “My involvement with TACC has been nothing but beneficial. TACC programs and networking offer so many ways to connect with other businesses in the South Bay.”
For Athena Paquette Cormier, recipient of the Inspirational Leader Award, this recognition is deeply meaningful.
“I feel at my core that through our stories, all of us inspire others to be greater versions of themselves and tap into our superpowers that create greatness. I am so pleased to inspire other women to shine their light.”
She also highlighted how the Chamber has supported her business.
“For me, the Chamber gave me and still gives me a resource for regular compliance. They are advocates for small businesses. They are a link to other businesses that you need as sources for all things. They are also creating a space to learn and build lifelong friendships.”
For Casey Schwartz and Kit Wertz, co-owners of Flower Duet and recipients of the Small Business Award, this honor reaffirms their commitment to the local economy.
“Receiving the Small Business Award is a tremendous honor and validates our dedication to cultivating community connections by sourcing our flowers and floral supplies from Torrance businesses, thereby strengthening our local economy.”
They also emphasized how their work extends beyond business and into community enrichment.
“Our floral design workshops empower local citizens—including schoolchildren, Girl Scouts, garden clubs, hospital groups, and retirees—with a joyful new skill, enriching their lives and fostering creativity within our community.”
Their connection with the Chamber has been a valuable resource for their continued success.
“The Chamber has provided invaluable networking opportunities, connecting us with fellow business leaders, especially during the pandemic shutdown, which was instrumental in helping us prosper and grow.”
Thank you to the sponsors of this event: Presenting Sponsors Providence Little Company of Mary and UCLA Health; Patron Sponsors Roadium Open Air Market and Sunrider International; and Supporting Sponsors American Honda Motor Co., Inc., Athena Paquette Mortgage Advisor, Athens Services, Aura Seating, California State University Dominguez Hills, Dignity Health Sports Park, El Camino College, Green Hills Memorial Park, Kaiser Permanente, Kinecta Federal Credit Union, Rose Equities, Torrance Bakery, and Torrance Refining Company.
Reservations are now available at torrancechamber.com/event/influence2025. Secure your seat today to be part of this inspiring celebration of leadership, innovation, and community impact.
