YWCA Silicon Valley has revealed the 55 Honorees who received this year’s Tribute to Women and Emerging Leader Awards. The Tribute to Women Awards recognizes the achievements of women who have excelled in their field and have made significant contributions to Silicon Valley through their leadership.
The 34th annual Awards are an effort to encourage women’s leadership and promote equal advancement opportunities for women of diverse backgrounds–cultivating a Silicon Valley where women are welcomed and respected in all positions.
Amongst the winners were SAP Silicon Valley’s very own Moya Watson, Product Manager, SAP HANA Cloud Platform and Thao Leatherman, Learning Operations.
Moya on winning the Tribute to Women Award:
“When I started rejuvenating our local Pride@SAP presence in Silicon Valley in 2010, as the only out lesbian I knew in the office, I felt vulnerable and alone. There were only about 100 people globally on the Pride distribution list, despite being the oldest employee network at SAP. Since then, the network has welcomed over 8000 members and allies around the world. I’ve had the honor of participating in many initiatives, have become an SAP Mentor because of this work, and now due to amazing support of my SAP colleagues, I’m receiving this YWCA honor. But my greatest achievement? It’s if I’ve helped even one person feel less alone at work and stronger being who they are.”
Thao on winning the Emerging Leader Award:
“Winning an award at this point in my career is surreal. I have so much to learn and feel more than blessed to be surrounded by strong and inclusive leaders to help guide my path. I'm thankful for my managers Manette Chadwick and Jenny Dearborn who have afforded me opportunities where my passions were more important than my work experience, and of course, for the global teams at SAP who have shared their knowledge and skills with me as I venture into new areas of work and growth.”
The Tribute to Women Awards shines a powerful light on leaders and the companies that employ them. “Now, more than ever, we’re starting to see women acknowledged and applauded for their achievements,” – Tanis Crosby, YWCA Silicon Valley’s CEO.
Moya and Thao will be awarded during the Tribute to Women Awards Dinner on April 26. Congratulations to them both on this much deserved recognition!
