Sway Events honors 2014 SWAGGER Award winners
Super SWAGGER Award Winners
Fabulous Philanthropist: Katy June
Having lived in The Valley for most of her life, Katy June appreciates that Phoenix is a city that is always evolving and reinventing itself. She is especially proud of the ‘localist’ energy that many Phoenicians believe in and adhere to.
When asked what volunteerism means to her, June said, it means “making your community the place you want to live! It’s giving back to make your space, your people and your world more enjoyable. I have made lifelong friends by engaging in volunteer activities because they are supported by groups of likeminded people working toward a common goal.”
Community Cultivator: Kenny Barrett
Valley native Kenny Barrett is Phoenix’s celebrated champion of urban agriculture and farming, local food, sustainable living, healthy eating and edible landscaping. Co-founder of Roosevelt Growhouse, Barrett currently works with HandsOn Greater Phoenix and plans their annual volunteer service events, including Make a Difference Day and Serve-a-Thon. He is an activist, artist and community organizer that has already made a huge difference in Phoenix.
“I hope we continue creating and adding to our sustainability plan and develop a workforce development program for young aspiring urban farmers so they can find sustainable ways to grow the abundance of food we’ll need in the future,” he said.
Creative Genius: Ruben Gonzales
Designer and pioneer Ruben Gonzales is a metro Phoenix native who grew up as a b-boy in Tolleson and has since made a significant impact on The Valley’s urban art scene and cultural transformation.
“It’s been amazing watching this city become the fifth largest in the country and seeing the resurgence of local shops and restaurants in Downtown and other Valley urban areas,” he said. “To be a part of that movement has been priceless.”
His company, 11th Monk3y, spotlights his original yet affordable apparel. He also builds bicycles, metal furnishings, artwork and anything else he can imagine. He hopes to host an LGBTQ printing class one day.