Power In UNITY - 2018 YMCA Women's Leadership Conference
More than 470 Y leaders came together in Orlando Sept. 11-13 for the Y's first-ever Women's Leadership Conference. With engaging speakers, networking opportunities and workshops, participants focused on advancing gender equity in their careers, in their YMCAs and in society as a whole. The YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas sent 5 leaders to the conference. Here is what they said about their experience:
"I am so honored to be able to say I was in attendance at the 1st inaugural Women’s Conference for the YMCA. It was so exciting to meet different women leaders from all across the world and to be able to network with those who are in some shoes I may want to fill as I progress in my Y career. The energy at this conference was like no other… so many women inspiring each other and especially our CEO of Y of USA empowering us to claim our seat at the table. I am now even more motivated to continue to be a leader of influence and lead our team serve our community" – Navreet Pointer, SAS Operations Director
“It was such an honor to attend the inaugural YMCA Women’s Leadership Conference! I was excited to gain tools and resources for thriving as a female leader in the YMCA Movement, spend time in reflection of how I can contribute to a more diverse and inclusive culture, and have space to connect with others inside and outside of our organization to build on my skills and self-awareness. I came back refueled with a passion for become a better human, not just leader, and having built relationships with a few awesome women who exude confidence and a compelling stillness (a centeredness of sorts) that I can learn and grow from...SUCH fun and so much learning!” – Jodi Newman, School Age Services Executive Director
“What I loved most about the Women's Leadership Conference was not only the resources provided during the time we were there, but it was the connections we made with other female leaders across the movement. We had a chance to work together to discuss what the Y's role is in eliminating gender inequity as well as collaborate on solutions to benefit women not only in the United States, but globally. We cannot do this alone, but together with our male allies. I look forward to amplifying the voices of other female leaders and paving the way for more as we grow.” – Rebecca Lee, Vice President of Membership and Wellness
