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Broomstein Gets Women’s Leadership Award

Kenell Broomstein

Boston – IBEW Local 103 Business Agent Kenell Broomstein has been honored as a recipient of the 2019 New England Women’s Leadership Award (NEWLA) by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Dorchester (BGCD).

The award is given to recognize significant achievements by New England women, who are honored for excellence in their chosen fields, distinguished service in their communities, and perseverance in overcoming adversity.

Broomstein was named business agent for IBEW Local 103 last year. This is a leadership position within the electrical union.

“Becoming a union electrician has been life-changing for me and my two sons,” Broomstein said. “I want other women to know – you can do this! The job is interesting, it’s challenging, and more women should consider this career path. It also offers great pay and benefits.”

Broomstein with IBEW Local 103 Business Manager Lou Antonellis

Broomstein was given her award at a ceremony on May 9 at the Seaport Hotel, joined by elected officials, Boys & Girls Clubs of Dorchester youth and staff, fellow award recipients Yvonne Garcia and Noelle Lambert, and friends, family and supporters.

“Our organization has one purpose and that’s to serve the families of our community by creating a safe, nurturing environment for our youth,” said Bob Scannell, president and CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Dorchester. “Many of our young female members have challenging home lives, and all can benefit from positive role models like Kenell Broomstein, who has accomplished so much. She is a perfect fit for this award. Like us, she fights for young women each day. We can’t thank her enough for being a positive force for the youth in our community.”

Broomstein (left) gives a hug to the BGCD member who presented her with the award

Broomstein is passionate about expanding opportunities for women and people of color in the trades and has taken on a number of leadership roles in the community. She is a member of the Greater Boston Labor Council Futures Committee, where she is working to organize communities of color to join the labor movement and seize the many opportunities it has to offer. She also serves on the Lynn Technical Vocational High School advisory board, creating more opportunity for young people.

Broomstein poses for a photo with BGCD youth

Broomstein also participates in many outreach programs including Massachusetts Girls in Trades, which works to introduce young girls to meaningful, family-sustaining careers in the building trades, as well as Tradeswomen Tuesdays and the Build A Life campaign geared more toward adult women.

“Kenell has been an absolute rock star since her first day at IBEW Local 103,” said IBEW Local 103 Business Manager and Financial Secretary Lou Antonellis. “She’s such a light in our organization, and a true leader both inside our hall and out in the community. She’s an excellent role model for these young people and we’re just so proud of everything she has accomplished.”

“It means so much to me to receive this award. It comes from an organization that is absolutely critical to the community where I live and work, and IBEW Local 103 is so fortunate to have a strong partnership with BGCD,” Broomstein said. “I found a unique path to success, and I’m so happy to get to share my journey with the young people of my community.”

Broomstein’s role as business agent involves advocating for workers on the job, organizing members for various community and advocacy efforts, and lobbying local and state government for legislation that benefits working people.