The Indiana Roof Ballroom buzzed with energy Thursday night as hundreds gathered for the sixth season of Stand Tall in Your Story, an annual event celebrating women's empowerment and leadership. Hosted by Rebecca Fleetwood Hession, best-selling author and founder of the Rise & Thrive community, the evening featured seven speakers sharing personal, TED-like talks that left the audience inspired and uplifted.
Upon arrival, guests were greeted with shelves lined with champagne, setting the tone for a night of celebration. A fun backdrop on stage, designed to look like a magazine cover, provided the perfect spot for speakers to be captured in their own Stand Tall moment. The dining experience also offered a unique touch with beautifully presented salads served in coupe glasses, adding to the event's refined yet playful atmosphere.
Fleetwood Hession, the visionary behind the event, welcomed the crowd with enthusiasm, setting the stage for an evening of connection and kindness.
“I may not be a company, but with this event, I am in good company,” she said.
One of the night’s standout moments came from speaker Sarah Reisman, Telamon CFO, who took to the stage to share her personal journey of growth and self-acceptance and reinforced the event’s core message of embracing your true self.
“I’ve come to realize the label I want to wear most proudly is authentic,” Reisman said.
Throughout the evening, attendees engaged in conversations about leadership, career growth, and personal transformation. The impact of the event was felt, with many leaving feeling empowered and ready to take on new challenges.
Rebecca Bormann, an attendee and advocate for women in leadership, summed up the atmosphere perfectly.
“This is one of those fill-your-cup-up type events. This is a room full of women and allies here that want to support women,” she said.
As the final speaker left the stage, the night ended with a sense of renewed purpose and community. Stand Tall in Your Story continues to be a beacon of inspiration, reminding women to embrace their narratives and lead with confidence.