In honor of Women's History Month, Westchester County is recognizing local women for their extraordinary work during the pandemic and beyond.

Seven women nominated by their peers have been recognized with the first-ever WOW Awards.

Awards categories included health and wellness, spiritual guidance and more.

A special award honoring a teenager who went above and beyond in her community was awarded to Joyce Lu, of Hastings. "Ardsley Face Masks has given me this incredible opportunity to help out the community and at a time where everyone is quarantine, I really hope this sort of helps show that people can help you when you're in need. And I really hope my actions help inspire other girls in my community," says Hu.

More than 150 nominations were submitted from all over the county and judged by members of the county executive's administrative team.

Awards were handed out in the following categories:

Healing Hands: Highlighting Health and Wellness. Nubia Earth Martin, of Yonkers

The Next Generation: Spotlighting a woman working with children in education or childcare: Frances-Ann Lightsy, of Mount Vernon

Women Supporting Women: Showcasing a local woman who continues to lift others: Mariana Alonso-Jusafaj, of New Rochelle

Charity Begins at Home: Identifying women helping the community with basic needs like housing or food. Donna Brown, of Tuckahoe

Keeping the Faith: For women who have provided spiritual guidance. Ida Silver Wiggins, of Peekskill

Not Business as Usual: Featuring an outstanding businesswoman or entrepreneur: Melissa Manice, of Larchmont

Young Woman of Westchester, a special award honoring a teenager in Westchester County for go above and beyond in their community. Joyce Lu, of Hastings