Author: IWN Staff

Leading Ladies, an Independent Women’s Network initiative, showcases and honors women who make a significant impact in their communities and beyond. Join us in sharing their inspirational stories and celebrating their remarkable achievements!

Irina Edelstein is an inspiring leader based in Brooklyn, New York. Having grown up in Soviet Russia, she offers a powerful and unique perspective on the challenges many Americans face today. We admire Irina’s boldness in speaking the truth and her unwavering commitment to standing up for freedom.

We asked Irina…

Where do you live?

Brooklyn, New York

How did you get involved with IWN? 

In the spring of 2024, I met Carrie Sheffield and shared my concerns about a men-only migrant shelter that was set to open right next to my children’s school. As a parent, I felt unheard and deeply worried about the potential risks this posed, especially given the limited security measures and lack of accountability from city leaders. Carrie immediately connected me with IWN, and to my amazement, the story quickly gained attention. I was invited to appear on Dr. Phil, and IWN produced a feature documentary to shine a light on the issue. Since then, I’ve been incredibly blessed to connect with fearless, inspiring women from across the country through IWN. It’s been a powerful and empowering journey.

Where do you fit politically?

I’ve always seen myself as an independent and used to avoid political news. Growing up in Socialist Russia taught me not to rely on the government, and I carried that mindset until COVID made me realize how much voting truly matters. To vote in primaries, I chose to register as a Republican because it aligned more with my faith-based views on life and traditional family values.

Have you changed politically over the years?

I don’t blindly follow politics, I examine each issue through a biblical lens. Not all Republicans or Democrats are the same, and political views often depend on local issues. Generalizing isn’t helpful because it shuts down honest conversations. As a mom in NYC, I’ve found that even moms who vote differently often share the same concerns, and those conversations really matter.

What do you consider the most important issues facing our country today?

One of the biggest issues facing our country today is the deep division among its citizens, often fueled by social media. We need to prioritize in-person conversations that build understanding, trust, and real connection across different views. Social media should be used for entertainment or light engagement, not as the primary place to form opinions or debate serious issues.

How do you spend your free time?

I don’t have much of it – being a mom of three, working full time, and staying focused on creating a healthy, balanced home keeps me very busy. When I do have a moment, I enjoy spending time in nature with my family. And to be honest, I really enjoy sleep because it’s a rare luxury I fully appreciate!

When did your Chapter launch? 

September 2024

How many members are in your Chapter?

7

What are the main issue areas and goals of your Chapter?

Our main goal right now is to support families in NYC who feel left out or silenced when it comes to healthcare, education, and public safety concerns. I aim to be both a listening ear and a source of encouragement for parents who hold traditional values. We’re also engaging in conversations around the mayoral elections, working to highlight the rise of socialist agendas and why they’re deeply concerning for the future of our city.

Leading Ladies, an Independent Women’s Network initiative, showcases and honors women who make a significant impact in their communities and beyond. Join us in sharing their inspirational stories and celebrating their remarkable achievements!

This month, we highlight Monica Yelin, a proud member of Independent Women’s Phoenix, Arizona Chapter. Monica leads with conviction and a commitment to common sense ideas that make a difference locally and beyond.

We asked Monica…

Where do you live?

Phoenix, Arizona

How did you get involved with IWN? 

I was invited by Christy Narsi to several events, and that opened the door for me to connect with other women who share my values. From the beginning, I felt at home with the Independent Women’s Network because it aligns closely with my lifelong conservative principles.

Where do you fit politically?

I have always leaned conservative.

Have you changed politically over the years?

While I have always leaned conservative, about 25 years ago, I experienced a profound shift, and I became pro-life. That conviction has guided my work ever since, particularly in areas such as family, community, and policy issues that impact future generations.

What do you consider the most important issues facing our country today?

The three issues I care most about are education, safety, and the economy. These are the foundations for strong families and thriving communities. Whether it’s protecting parental rights, ensuring public safety, or creating economic opportunity, I believe these priorities are inseparable from the American Dream.

How do you spend your free time?

My husband and I love traveling, road trips, hiking, and discovering clear blue lakes. We also enjoy watching movies and documentaries together. Volunteering is an important part of our lives, too; it’s both rewarding and a way to connect with others. To me, service is more than giving back; it’s part of building strong social bonds.