10th Anniversary Celebration
Building a Legacy of Leadership
Corinthian Houston
202 Fannin Street | Houston, Texas
Wednesday, March 4, 2026 – 11:30am to 1:30pm
City of Houston Council Member Tiffany D. Thomas Talks about WIF
The Wells International Foundation’s (WIF) is a U. S. non-profit organization whose mission is to empower women, children and youth, and persons of African descent to realize their highest potential through arts, literacy, study abroad, and other educational and cultural programs. We are building a network of global citizens who embrace inclusiveness and foster a spirit of cooperation throughout the world.
As a 501(c)3 nonprofit incorporated in Houston, TX on October 1, 2015 (and now domiciled in Pearland, TX), we provide programs, partnership, and mentoring in five Strategic Focus Areas:
- The Arts
- STEAM Education: Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math
- Literacy
- Travel/Study Abroad
- Women’s Empowerment
Impacting over 2 million people globally, we collaborate with organizations such as the City of Paris (France) and BASIS International (Guangzhou, China). Our programs touch lives through the National Museum of Women in the Arts (Washington, DC), Big Brothers Big Sisters (Houston), and community organizations in Chicago, Los Angeles, and beyond.
Having joyfully celebrated our 10th anniversary on October 1, 2025, WIF is delighted to carry that spirit forward with a vibrant International Women’s Day luncheon honoring women’s leadership, service, and empowerment. This special event honors the extraordinary women, men, and organizations whose leadership, service, and advocacy embody WIF’s mission to empower women and girls worldwide.
WIF’S COMMITMENT TO WOMEN AND GIRLS
WIF believes that the power to change the world lies in the hearts, minds, and hands of women. Values-driven entrepreneurship and woman-based leadership in corporations, government, and nongovernmental organizations are effective means of engendering this change.
Through our Women’s Empowerment group, the L³ Alliance,* we facilitate the ability of professional women to achieve their greatest accomplishments through clarity, authenticity, and aligned action.
We focus on providing opportunities for these women to:
- Adopt the mindset and learn the skills they need to succeed professionally and personally
- Receive emotional and logistical support to bolster their success
- Cultivate a culture of philanthropy
We also believe that mentoring girls is one of the premier ways successful women can give back to the world. It is a fundamental part of the legacy that we encourage our members and like-minded women to build.
*”L³” stands for lifestyle, legacy, and leading by example.
ABOUT INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
A global movement powered by the collective efforts of all.
International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity. Significant activity is witnessed worldwide as groups come together to celebrate women’s achievements or rally for women’s equality.
Marked annually on March 8th, IWD is one of the most important days of the year to:
- celebrate women’s achievements
- educate and raise awareness about women’s equality
- call for positive change advancing women
- lobby for accelerated gender parity
- fund raise for women-focused charities
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY AWARDS
In keeping with our women’s empowerment initiative, the L³ Alliance, we are pleased to present awards that celebrate individuals and organizations whose leadership, service, and advocacy uplift women and girls—honoring both those who have achieved excellence in their fields and those who empower the next generation to pursue their dreams.
Extraordinary Public Service Award
VANESSA WYCHE
For public service that advances the policies and issues relevant to the lives of woman and girls while supporting the growth and success of women through mentoring.
Unsung Heroine Award
KARA BRANCH
For working without expectation of recognition to better the lives of women and girls. The awardee works behind the scenes, providing support – including mentoring – to help others succeed.
Spirit of Equality Award
PAPIA GAMBELIN
For demonstrating through service to others, either at work or as a volunteer, a commitment to improving people’s lives and creating equality for all.
Community Leadership Award
DR. TEDDY MCDAVID
For improving the lives of women and girls in her community and demonstrating a desire to share her talent with girls, encouraging them to grow into confident, successful women.
Community Advocate of the Year Award
DR. RUTH ALLEN OLLISON
For serving as the voice of her community, advocating for change to resolve issues for the betterment of the entire community, while lifting women and girls for future leadership.
Annie Powell Youth of the Year Award
SEANTE JOHNSON
For a young adult who has persevered and is succeeding against incredible odds.
Malcolm Wells Man of the Year Award
JEFF SHAW
For the man who has used his influence, position, and personal commitment to champion the rights of women and worked to ensure that women are equal partners in all professional and community endeavors.
Organization of the Year Award
BLACK GIRLS DO ENGINEER
For outstanding accomplishments by a nonprofit organization, including staff and volunteers, that demonstrate its dedication to “doing good” for the benefit of women and girls in our community.
WIF CONTACT INFORMATION
SBell@WellsInternationalFoundation.org
415-749-1083 (Direct)
Wells International Foundation (WIF)
3104 Trail Hollow Dr.
Pearland, TX 77584
