My first time attending an Empowering Women Event was in 2020 during the pandemic. Initially the event was scheduled to be in person, but like other events that year, it was pivoted to virtual. At first, I wasn’t sure how it would go, other online events were hours of sitting and listening to back-to-back speakers, but I was very much surprised. Engagement between the organizers, speakers, and attendees began weeks before the actual event and that engagement led to the sense of community that was felt during the conference. There was plenty of useful professional development content, awards presented to women doing extraordinary things in their industries, and there was a DJ and dance party! When I think of the women I met, they were supportive, encouraging, and rooted for one another. While l was involved as a speaker, I got so much from the speakers and attendees alike.
Being a former Information Technology professional, that environment of other amazing women showing up strong in male-populated fields was refreshing and encouraging. I knew I wanted to stay connected with this powerful organization that celebrates and empower women! In fact, I now serve on the conference committee. Three years and 3 conferences later (2 in person) and EWII is still one of the communities I want to be apart of.
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