Amplify your voice, connect with policymakers, and ensure your business has a seat at the table!
Join NAWBO Columbus and our community partners to connect with your 2026 candidates from across the ballot! Our October Monthly Meeting is a non-partisan Candidate Forum designed to connect you with policymakers and give you insight into how this year's election could shape and affect your business.
NAWBO members and Ohio businesses are diverse in many ways, including the size of their business, the sectors and communities they serve, the stage of business development, race, ethnicity, geographic business areas, and political leanings that determine policy views. We recognize the ever-present need to represent all members while creating the avenue and environment to build sustainable women-owned and diverse businesses. Join us to connect with and hear from this election's candidates.
AGENDA HIGHLIGHTS (SUBJECT TO CHANGE):
MEET THE CANDIDATES:
The 2026 U.S. Senate & House candidates as well as the 2026 Ohio Gubernatorial and Ohio House & Ohio Senate candidates representing Central Ohio in Congress and at the Statehouse have been invited to attend. Participation will be confirmed when received.
CONNECT WITH OTHER COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS:
Network with several community organizations that represent and elevate businesses throughout Ohio and beyond.
GET INVOLVED:
Find out how your non-partisan Public Policy Committee is working to level the playing field for your business, how to hold policymakers accountable, and how you can get involved.
The following candidates have confirmed their participation: (subject to change):
- Cleophus Dulaney U.S. House District 3
- Don Leonard - U.S. House District 15
- Stacie Baker- Ohio Senate District 3
- Sen. Michele Reynolds - Ohio Senate District 3
- Rep. Latyna Humphrey- Ohio Senate District 15
- Sen. Bill DeMora- Ohio Senate District 25
- Rep. Dontavius Jarrells – Ohio House District 1
- Charity Martin King- Ohio House District 2
- Rep.Beryl Brown Piccolantonio- Ohio House District 4
- Matthew Jackson- Ohio House District 6
- Rep. Christine Cockley- Ohio House District 6
- Bill Mercier- Ohio House District 7
- Kelly Hunter-Kalagidis -Ohio House District 8
- Rep. Mark Sigrist -Ohio House District 10
- Rep. Crystal Lett- Ohio House District 11
Registration closes Friday, September 25th at 5pm.
To view boxed lunch choices click HERE
Tonisha C. Johnson is an Emmy Award-winning broadcast journalist and dynamic speaker with nearly two decades of experience engaging audiences through powerful storytelling and strategic communication. Known for her warmth, credibility, and commanding presence, Tonisha brings clarity, connection, and energy to every stage she steps on.
Throughout her career, she has covered stories spanning crime, education, politics, community leadership, and human-interest features that inspire action and understanding. She is the founder of L.E.A.P.S. Dream House, LLC, where she helps leaders, entrepreneurs, and organizations cultivate awareness, refine their message, and communicate with confidence and purpose.
Tonisha is also the visionary behind Just Leap Production House, where she is set to write, produce, and direct documentary projects centered on the experiences of women over 40, using storytelling as a tool for community-building, reconciliation, and healing.
She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications with a minor in Spanish from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and a Master of Divinity from Hood Theological Seminary. Currently, Tonisha serves as Vice President of Broadcast for the Columbus Association of Black Journalists and has been recognized in Who’s Who in Black Columbus for her leadership and impact.
Whether moderating panels, hosting conferences, or delivering keynote messages, Tonisha brings authenticity, insight, and a deep commitment to helping audiences feel seen, heard, and inspired to act.