By Ahna Boyce | Photos by Rob Jinks
On March 5, Prince William Living’s annual Influential Women awards event took place at Sweeney Barn. Held each year during Women’s History Month, the event celebrates women making an impact in the community while also providing an opportunity to network and gain visibility. It was the largest women-focused event in Prince William, with over 150 people in attendance, including two local mayors. In line with Prince William Living’s values, ticket sales for the event went to Give Back Prince William, a non-profit.
This year’s awards featured 26 women who were nominated by their peers for their work and service – the largest pool of nominees ever. As the nominees and their supportive family and friends arrived at the venue, the room was quickly teeming with people, a visual representation of the significant impact women make in our community. “We are in a room full of women who do things,” said Rebecca Barnes, Publisher of Prince William Living, who hosted the event.
2026 Influential Women Award winners: Damita Frye, Dr. Rachel Payne, Dr. Megan Franco, Dr. Rebecca Sinclair, Tarrazzia Martin
As is the custom, five of the 26 nominees were selected as winners, though all the women received a certificate and a warm round of applause. The winners were Dr. Megan Franco, Damita Frye, Tarrazzia Martin, Dr. Rachel Payne, and Dr. Rebecca Sinclair. You can read about each of the winners, as well as all the nominees, in the articles published by Prince William Living.
Woodhouse Spa provided gifts for the winners
Cakes by Happy Eatery provided desserts
Ahna Boyce is a high school student and an intern at Prince William Living.
