Newport City Councilor Angela Lima is set to receive the Change Agent Award at the Rhode Island Black Business Association’s (RIBBA) Annual Awards Gala on Oct. 25. The event, held at the Crowne Plaza Providence-Warwick, will celebrate Lima’s transformative contributions to the community.
“Councilor Lima is a groundbreaking member of the Newport City Council, serving as the second woman of color and the first queer woman from the LGBTQ+ community in this role,” RIBBA shared on LinkedIn. “Over the past six years, she has been a strong advocate for environmental justice, emphasizing carbon reduction, electric and solar initiatives, and stormwater management”.
RIBBA continued to shared that Lima’s leadership “led to the implementation of Equitable Development zoning in New England and introduced a two-tiered tax system that saved homeowners thousands. She also advocated for Rhode Island’s first Pride Crosswalk”.
Lima’s advocacy extends beyond her council duties. She facilitates the Women’s Policy Institute Leadership Training with the Women’s Fund of Rhode Island, empowering women in policy and advocacy.
RIBBA also celebrate Lima’s efforts to supported crucial legislation on voter access, reproductive healthcare, fair pay, and workplace pregnancy protection.
Beyond her council duties, Lima facilitates the Women’s Policy Institute Leadership Training with the Women’s Fund of Rhode Island, empowering women in policy and hashtag#advocacy. Her efforts have supported crucial legislation on voter access, reproductive healthcare, fair pay, and workplace pregnancy protection. As a public speaker and coordinator of gubernatorial debates, Councilor Lima’s influence drives significant change.
We commend her for her transformative contributions to our community!” RIBBA stated in their announcement.
RIBBA, a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing business opportunities for minority entrepreneurs in Rhode Island, expects over 600 guests at the gala. Attendees will include business owners, corporate leaders, professionals, and state and local representatives.
“I am honored to be recognized as the change agent of the year award! Sooo excited for this event!!” Lima said in response to the announcement.
The event serves as RIBBA’s largest annual fundraiser, aiming to tackle systemic inequities faced by Rhode Island’s minority entrepreneurs.
The gala will highlight the community’s resiliency. Funds raised will support the organization’s ability to provide transformational programming.
RIBBA offers business development resources, entrepreneur training, contracting, business advocacy, investor services, workforce development, and access to capital for minority-owned businesses and career professionals in Rhode Island.
The organization recognizes individuals who exhibit excellence in leadership, professional achievement, and a commitment to giving back to their communities. Award recipients demonstrate a dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion, contributing to Rhode Island’s economic and community development.
Lima’s term on the Newport City Council will end on Dec. 1, 2024, as she is not seeking re-election. The upcoming award serves as a recognition of her impactful tenure in public service.
The gala, scheduled from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., promises to be an “extraordinary and unforgettable night” of networking, celebration, and honoring outstanding achievements in the community.
Tickets for the event are limited, and those interested in attending or supporting RIBBA’s work can purchase tickets or become members through the organization’s website.
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