In 2011, Houston-born Beyoncé Knowles-Carter released “Run The World (Girls)”, affirms itself as the anthem of female empowerment for women. Fast forward to 2022. The women of Houston have broken down barriers, solidified their presence and taken over spaces that keep the city moving. Family co-founders Stephanie and Katie Tsuru, business owner Tausha Sanders, celebrity chef Dawn Burrell, fashion influencer Nicole Mehta, and LGBTQ+ activist Adriana LaRue have all influenced the city through their creative-led collaborations. women, their inspiring achievements and amplifying their voices to support and advocate for those in need.

Tausha Sanders, Founder of Her Grails

After 10 years of retail experience, including a degree in fashion marketing and a position as media manager at Sneaker Summit, Her Grails founder Tausha Sanders (@taushaquan) uses her platform to educate and inspire women. Sanders, along with event coordinator Wendy Franklin, hosts monthly events in conjunction with Graceful Laces for the Sneaker Charity Ball, Tipping Point Coffee for the Kicks & Coffee mixer, and The Fomo Factory for Air Max Day, a celebration of women and of their favorite pair. Nike Air Max sneakers.

Nicole Mehta, fashion blogger

With 124,000 Instagram followers, it’s clear that Nicole Mehta (@nicolemehta) is a force in the Houston style scene. Tech consultant by day and fashion blogger by night, the social media influencer offers style through her shopping, fashion guides and wellness advice, creating a mood board for a trendy lifestyle . The graceful millennial has also been featured in high-profile publications such as PopSugar, where she was named one of the Top 50 South Asian Influencers Bringing Fashionable Representation. She was also selected by Instagram to try out its latest shopping initiative to provide a seamless affiliate experience for its users.

Dawn Burrell, Chief

Dishes prepared by Houston chef Dawn Burrell (@chefdawnburrell) have helped build a well-rounded resume for the culinary artist. She caramelized her career in the critically acclaimed Bravo series Excellent chef competetion. After reaching the season 18 finale, the alumnus makes an iconic appearance as a guest judge for season 19. In 2020, Burrell became a semi-finalist for the James Beard Foundation award for “Best Chef: Texas and can still be found at the historic restaurant in town, Lucille cooks up classic, heavenly Southern cuisine.

Stephanie and Katie Tsuru, founders of SheSpace

The philanthropy of Stephanie (@stephaniektsuru) and Katie (@katielady427) Tsuru has been widely recognized in Houston. The family duo founded SheSpace, the lively design coworking office in The Heights, providing a safe and inclusive space for women to network and work freely. Together with members of SheSpace, they run monthly workshops focusing on entrepreneurship and mental health, creating an environment for women to learn and connect. Stephanie Tsuru is also a board member of three of Houston’s major foundations: Hermann Park Conservancy, Houston Ballet and the World Affairs Council.

Adriana La Rue, trans activist

Fierce poses, electrifying glamour, and an endless supply of colorful wigs are what you’ll see on trans activist Adriana LaRue’s Instagram (@adrianaxox2). The drag superstar traveled through Houston to New York to perform high-end lip-syncing and championing the LGBTQ community, especially trans lives. Whether she exudes powerful stage presence in a shimmering purple dress and latex boots or models in a vibrant blue bodysuit with futuristic space buns, LaRue brings a captivating nightlife omnipresence to the show.