Event speakers delivered a strong emphasis on professional development
Four dynamic keynote speakers and eight session leaders empowered and engaged more than 500 attendees Wednesday during the 2024 Professional Women’s Conference at the Blue Chip Casino Hotel Spa in Michigan City.
The event, presented by the Northwest Indiana Influential Women Association (NWIIWA) and sponsored by ArcelorMittal and ArcelorMittal Global Research and Development, returned to the area after an eight-year hiatus. The conference attracted women professionals from across a wide range of industries who came to network and learn more about the ways they could elevate their careers and strengthen their leadership abilities.
“To say the conference was an invaluable experience is an understatement. The insights I gathered from just the first keynote speaker and breakout session alone were worth the price of the entire conference,” said attendee Patti Komara, owner of Patti’s All-American. “I took so many notes, and I am ready to take it all back to my business and implement. It was an incredible experience.”
The morning keynote address was delivered by Christine Sandman Stone, author and CEO, who shared strategies for navigating today’s business environment. Life and business strategist Mark Dolfini also gave a keynote speech focusing on the importance of creating a personal vision for professional growth. Those in attendance also heard from metaphysic healer and CEO Kimberly Tocco, who shared insights about finding joy in the workplace. The closing keynote speaker, business coach and author Missy Shopshire, guided participants in unlocking their full potential.
Breakout sessions were tailored to meet the interests and career levels of the attendees. Topics covered a range of areas, including time management and organization, self-care and balance, building social media, overcoming failure, effective networking, aligning passion and purpose, identifying reasons for procrastination, and a look at the intersection of technology and female leadership.
Breakout speakers included: Valentine Torres, author and teacher; Stephanie Jones, author and business coach; Cortney Spencer, social media influencer; Jessica Tepas, writer and speaker; Elizabeth Volini, executive director and presenter; Dr. Uzoma F. Obidike, career transition coach and networking strategist; Amanda Decker, journalist and communications expert; and Elyssa Smith, trauma-informed life strategist.
“We get so tied up in our busy day-to-day work that it is often difficult to find time to meet and learn from others. This conference was a great opportunity to step away from our offices, network, and find ways to elevate our careers,” said Heidi Morgan, owner of Belle Ame Boutique. “I was so inspired by all of the speakers. We really needed something like this in our area, and I am already looking forward to next year’s event.”
A photo gallery highlighting the event is available at www.professionalwomensconference.com.