Empowering Women: Alexandria Chamber of Commerce Celebrates International Women’s Day
From the Chamber ALX
Alexandria, VA – On March 8th, 2024, the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce proudly hosted the Women’s Leadership Forum at The Westin Alexandria, a vibrant morning program designed to foster discussion, inspiration, and professional development. This event, coinciding with International Women’s Day, aimed to unite individuals at all stages of their careers, creating a platform for empowerment and growth.
The agenda was thoughtfully curated to maximize engagement and learning opportunities. Attendees were welcomed with a buffet breakfast and the chance to network, fostering connections vital for personal and professional growth.
The highlight of the morning was a candid discussion among a diverse panel of accomplished women who shared their journeys, challenges, and triumphs, inspiring attendees with their stories of resilience and success.
Among the esteemed speakers were:
Lois Cook: A trailblazer in women’s football, Lois shared her journey from aspiring NFL player to advocate for women’s sports empowerment. Her dedication to growing the game both on and off the field serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes everywhere.
Maria Elizabeth: As the founder of Salon deZEN in Old Town, Maria exemplifies entrepreneurial excellence and community leadership. Her commitment to supporting her team and community underscores the importance of fostering environments where individuals can thrive.
Peggy Fox: With a distinguished career in journalism and now as a Spokesperson and External Affairs Manager with Dominion Energy, Peggy embodies the power of effective communication and community engagement. Her journey from Emmy-winning journalist to corporate leader highlights the diverse paths to success available to women in today’s workforce.
LaJuanna Russell: As President & CEO of Business Management Associates, LaJuanna’s journey from humble beginnings to leading a multi-million-dollar business is a testament to her visionary leadership and dedication to excellence. Her expertise in human resource management and commitment to diversity and inclusion serve as guiding principles for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders.
Stephanie Wright: Co-Founder and Executive Director of Together We Bake, Stephanie’s passion for empowering women through employment and skills training is truly inspiring. Her dedication to creating opportunities for women to thrive is a testament to the transformative power of community-based initiatives.
Following the panel discussion, attendees had the opportunity to network further over coffee, fostering connections and exchanging laughter, insights and professional development tips & opportunities.
To cap off the energizing and enlightening morning, attendees engaged in an interactive discussion with the panelists, delving deeper into topics such as leadership, entrepreneurship, and the future of women in the workforce.
The Women’s Leadership Forum hosted by the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce served as a powerful reminder of the importance of celebrating and uplifting women in all aspects of society. By providing a platform for dialogue, inspiration, and professional development, events like these play a crucial role in driving positive change and fostering a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
