Today, Senator Lea Webb presented EM13BRACE with a NYS Empire Award. The NYS Empire Award is the highest award a NYS Senator can bestow upon businesses and organizations in their district. 

Said Alexia Michitti, Founder of EM13RACE, "I am truly honored for EM13RACE to receive the Empire Award! Senator Webb has shown so much support to the limb-different and disability community, especially in the last few years. This recognition means so much to me, EM13RACE wants to continue to spread a message of finding confidence in clothing and empowering people to EM13RACE themselves and I appreciate the support from leaders like Senator Webb!"

“I am extremely proud to honor EM13RACE with a NYS Empire Award,” said Senator Lea Webb. “Alexia Michitti has continued to provide adaptive clothing to people with limb differences, which is a critical need for many who have been underserved in this area.” 

Founded by Alexia Michitti, EM13RACE is an adaptive clothing company designed to bring comfort, accessibility, and confidence to individuals living with limb differences, addressing a critical need that has long been underserved in the apparel industry.

Born from Michitti’s own lived experience, EM13RACE reflects a deeply personal and thoughtful approach to design. As someone born without her right hand, Michitti understands firsthand the daily challenges that traditional clothing can present. She has translated that understanding into practical, well-designed apparel that empowers individuals to navigate their daily routines with greater ease, independence, and dignity. Each piece is intentionally crafted to meet the needs of the limb-different community while maintaining comfort, functionality, and style.

Beyond its products, EM13RACE is rooted in a broader mission of empowerment and representation. Through her work, Michitti challenges perceptions of disability and highlights the strength, capability, and potential of individuals with limb differences. Her leadership extends beyond business into advocacy, using her platform to promote inclusivity and expand awareness of adaptive needs.

In addition to her entrepreneurial work, Michitti is an accomplished athlete and public speaker who brings her message of perseverance and self-confidence to audiences across the country. As a member and captain of the U.S. Women’s Amputee Soccer Team, she helped lead her team to a silver medal in international competition and earned recognition as a top goalkeeper. Through school programs, community events, and professional speaking engagements, she inspires young people and adults alike to overcome adversity, embrace differences, and lead with kindness and determination.

In the Senate, Senator Webb is the prime sponsor of a bill that ensures that individuals in need of orthotic and prosthetic care have access to and insurance coverage for the types of devices required for safe physical activity, bathing, and functional independence

###