Freetown’s Mikayla Nogueira Adds Luxury to Power of the Purse

OK, ladies, get ready to grab your wallets (or bid on a new one).

The highly anticipated Power of the Purse event, hosted by Women United, is returning on April 24 at the Century House in Acushnet.

This year's Power of the Purse sold out fast, but it's still all about women uplifting women through giving, fashion, and community.

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Power of the Purse is more than just a fundraiser. It’s a movement.

Women United, a United Way initiative, launched the event in 2018 to support early childhood development and literacy programs. In October 2023, it expanded its mission to include financial literacy for women, making this event’s impact even broader.

Those who were fortunate enough to get their hands on a ticket can expect an exciting evening featuring entertainment, food, and of course, the signature purse auction, which boasts 80 to 90 handbags in various styles and price points.

East Freetown TikTok Superstar Gives Back in a Huge Way

This year, the event gained a major boost from TikTok star and East Freetown native Mikayla Nogueira Hawken, founder of POV Beauty.

Known for her viral makeup content, Mikayla donated a collection of luxury handbags – including Christian Dior and Louis Vuitton pieces – to level-up the auction and support local women.

Power of the Purse committee member Erin Nogueira, a dedicated Women United member, played a key role in securing Mikayla’s involvement after seeing her social media post about “regret purchases.” Erin boldly reached out with the idea, turning those luxury buys into something meaningful— a partnership that wouldn’t have been possible without her initiative.

Within 48 hours, Mikayla responded, and a partnership was formed.

READ MORE: Mikayla Nogueira on Her New Beauty Brand POV

Missed Tickets? You Can Still Give Back

Although the event is sold out, there’s still a way to participate. The Power of the Purse auction is open to the public, allowing anyone to bid online starting April 21.

Bidders can browse and follow their favorite bags until the auction closes at 8:30 p.m. on April 24.

As Women United Director Paula Montgomery puts it, the event embodies the spirit of women lifting each other up.

“Get involved in your community in any capacity,” she said. “Women supporting women is a powerful message, especially during Women’s History Month.”

With the overwhelming success of this year’s Power of the Purse, those who missed out on tickets can mark their calendars; next year’s tickets will go on sale on "Galentine’s Day," February 13, 2026.