(ELMONT, N.Y.) - Nassau County Legislator Carrié Solages (D - Lawrence) commemorated Women’s History Month by honoring three local leaders for their contributions to the Third Legislative District. The honorees - Raven Brewington, Anayo Michel, and Jasmine Williams - received Nassau County Citations from Legislator Solages in recognition of their dedication to community service.
Raven Brewington (pictured, left) is an Elmont resident and community leader. As an alumna of Elmont Memorial High School, Raven served on the board of Elmont Alumni Growing Leaders through Education and Service (EAGLES) Network, where she helped to spearhead a growing mentorship program that gives current Elmont students the resources they need to succeed. Raven also serves as a troop leader, delegate for Elmont with the Girl Scouts of Nassau County, and a national delegate for the Girl Scouts of America.
Anayo Michel (pictured, center) is a mother, small business owner and social advocate. As the artistic director and owner of Layla’s Dance and Drum for almost 10 years, Anayo teaches African, Caribbean and Latin dance and culture to students from all backgrounds. Along with dance competitions, her students also perform at community events and fundraisers. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Anayo has worked hard to keep her business going despite many challenges. Outside of Layla’s Dance and Drum, Anayo has been an advocate for more diversity amongst teachers and staff of the Valley Stream school district so faculty more authentically correlates with the student body.
Jasmine Williams (pictured, right), who was recently crowned Miss Long Island 2021, has organized successful toy and canned food drives, completed a 3K for Autism Speaks, and served various organizations to strengthen her community and vulnerable populations during the initial months of her reign.
Upon graduating from Elmont Memorial High School, Jasmine attended St. John’s University and Howard University, where she studied speech language pathology. Today, she applies the knowledge she gained to serve children with special needs. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Jasmine launched “Together We Talk,” a program that provides free parent workshops and resources geared toward expanding speech and language skills in children. The program is specifically geared toward parents who have children with intellectual disabilities and those who have children with autism.
“Raven, Anayo and Jasmine are already applying their God-given talents and passions to efforts that make the world a better place,” Legislator Solages said. “I am so proud to recognize them during Women’s History Month and celebrate their passion for giving back to the community.”
PHOTO CREDITS - Office of Legislator Carrié Solages