Leadership is not only about titles or accolades, but it is also about service, resilience, and the ability to uplift others. These values were beautifully reflected at the San Diego Business Journal Women of the Year 2025 event, where our CEO, Brooke Martindale, was nominated among an inspiring group of women leaders making an impact across San Diego.
The event, which recognizes and celebrates our local “superheroes” in business and leadership, was held at the Hyatt Regency in La Jolla, bringing together professionals from across industries for an afternoon together. Cheer Home Care and Cheer Health Care could not be prouder to be part of a community that intentionally takes the time to recognize women in leadership and the positive ripple effects of their work!
Honoring Excellence in Leadership
Special congratulations go to Kim Becker, President & CEO of San Diego International Airport, who was recognized as the Lifetime Achievement Honoree. Her career stands as a powerful example of what thoughtful, visionary leadership can accomplish over time. Events like this are an opportunity to celebrate women at every stage of their leadership journey, from rising leaders to those whose careers have paved the way for generations to come.
Why Honoring Women in Leadership Matters
As a woman-owned business, Cheer Home Care and Cheer Health Care understand the importance of representation and recognition. Honoring women in leadership is not just about celebration; it is about ensuring the next generation sees what is possible!
Women leaders bring diverse perspectives and heart-centered leadership styles that strengthen organizations and communities. By recognizing these contributions publicly, we help foster workplaces and industries where women are empowered to lead with confidence and authenticity.
We are grateful to the San Diego Business Journal, along with event sponsors PNC, Alaska Airlines, and Kaiser Permanente, for their continued commitment to uplifting and recognizing women in leadership. Their support makes these celebrations possible.
A Panel That Paid It Forward
One of the highlights of the afternoon was the panel discussion titled “Paying it Forward: Inspiring the Next Generation.” The conversation centered on mentorship, leadership responsibility, and the importance of lifting others as you grow.
The panel was moderated by Valerie Attisha, Vice President of Client & Community Relations at PNC Bank, Corporate & Institutional Banking. Her guidance set the tone for an engaging and impactful discussion.
The panelists included:
- J’Keren Sears, Senior Program Manager at Alaska Airlines
- Yameeka Williams, Chief Operating Officer at Kaiser Permanente
- Holly Smithson, Chief Executive Officer of Athena and TEDx Speaker
Brooke Martindale: Leadership Rooted in Purpose
Brooke Martindale’s leadership is rooted in purpose and personal experience. Her journey into aging services began when her grandmother, Verna, suffered a stroke at just 53, exposing Brooke to the emotional, logistical, and financial challenges families face when seeking trustworthy home care. This experience led her to begin her career as a Financial Advisor and Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor at Merrill Lynch, specializing in senior financial planning. Recognizing that finances were only part of the caregiving picture, Brooke founded her first home care company in 2009 at age 27, building a reputation for exceptional quality, service, and highly qualified caregivers. After selling the company in 2020, she relocated with her family from Boston to San Diego, where she founded Cheer Home Care to meet the growing need for concierge-level aging services. Today, Cheer reflects Brooke’s commitment to dignity, optimism, and excellence – creating a culture where clients, caregivers, and professionals alike are valued and supported!
Grateful to Be Part of This Community
Being part of an event that celebrates women in business and leadership is both humbling and energizing. We are incredibly proud of Brooke Martindale’s nomination and grateful to stand alongside so many inspiring women leaders who continue to shape San Diego for the better!
