NJBIA honored five standout college students with “Rising Star Awards” at its 2025 New Jersey Women Business Leaders Forum.
“Each year we recognize future business leaders, who are currently working toward educational milestones who have demonstrated leadership, a passion for their anticipated field and a commitment to volunteering and community involvement,” NJBIA President & CEO Michele Siekerka said.
There were an overwhelming number of nominations for the award and NJBIA selected five winners, whom Siekerka described as “amazing, incredible, female leaders who are going to be even more amazing as their stars continue to rise in their leadership journey.”
The 2025 NJBIA Rising Stars are:
- Alicia Brownstein of Paramus (Bergen Community College)
- Melissa De Cunto of Hopatcong (New Jersey Institute of Technology)
- Laasya Kandakurti of Belle Mead (Rutgers University)
- Zeynep Nalan Kus of Clifton (New Jersey Institute of Technology)
- Alusha Olivier of Irvington (Berkeley College)
Go here to watch the awards ceremony video.
NJBIA’s 11th Annual WBLF, a two-day event that drew over 550 attendees to Somerset on Sept. 17-18, included inspirational TED-style talks, multiple breakout sessions led by expert panelists, and numerous networking opportunities. The WBLF has been helping women build successful careers and diversity in the C-suite and boardroom since 2015.
