Presented by the Washington Center for Women in Business and Thurston Economic Development Council
The 7th Annual INSPIRE Women’s Business Conference (WCWB) is returning for both in-person and live streaming on May 23 from 8am to 4pm. The program is designed to bring women in business together to learn and connect with each other. It’s a time and place to ignite one’s inspiration to successfully move ahead.
The conference will offer in-depth knowledge from experienced business owners who will speak about what it takes to find success. Four women will each have 30 minutes to talk about their paths. The areas will include construction, the arts, healthcare, and the beauty and skincare industry. Another group of four business owners will focus on the challenges of getting through those often-tough early years. Participants will be able to participate in a Q&A.
“We want to recognize how many women-owned businesses there are in the area,” says Ashley Whitley, Program Manager for the Center for Women. Conference participants will also be able to talk with 40 vendors about their products and services.
One of the keynote speakers is Vanessa Munson, Miss Washington. She will speak personally about hardship and resiliency. Munson advocates for people who have hearing impairments, as she experiences her own hearing challenges. She is in competition for the Miss America title while serving as a sergeant in the U.S. Army.
The spring conference can accommodate 200 people onsite at South Puget Sound Community College. Professional videographers will be live-streaming for those who are unable to attend in person. If you want a seat, it is recommended you sign up early.
The Center for Women in Business operates throughout the year. “We want our programs to teach the fundamentals as well as the details of the business,” explains Whitley. “We represent vets, BIPOC community, and those new to the area. I love helping other people succeed,” says Whitley, who began her first business at the age of 19. “I have always worked and had a business.”
The day will end with a cocktail hour for additional networking opportunities. A silent auction of donations from women-owned businesses will raise money for scholarships and special programs. Get in on the excitement!
For Additional Information
Washington Center for Women in Business
wcwb.org
BY MARY ELLEN PSALTIS