The conference theme, “Adapt. Connect. Lead.,” focused on helping women in business overcome challenges, build meaningful connections, and grow their influence to take their careers to the next level. Keynote speakers Dima Ghawi, Alana Muller, and Tara Renze shared inspiring stories and practical advice on how to achieve success in the business world.
Attendees also had the opportunity to hear from Kansas business and community leaders about their own experiences of adapting, connecting, and leading.
Stephanie Moran of GoTopeka led the Women in the Workplace panel discussion with Jamie Shiek of the Kansas Bankers Association, Sree G of Accenture and Sarah Brent Seel of Sarah Brent Seel Photography. The panel shared about their career paths, the transformations they made, and how they overcame obstacles to their success.
Tara Dimick of Compass Marketing & Advertising Partners took attendees through a rapid-fire session identifying personal limitations and how they can overcome them.
Heartland Black Chamber of Commerce President Kim Randolph lead a rapid-fire session that helped attendees practice transitioning their networking into making meaningful connections.
Kansas Chamber Vice President of Political Affairs Christie Kriegshauser shared what it takes to run for public office and then led the Women in the Community panel discussion featuring women elected to different levels of government leadership.
Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt, Kansas State Senator Kristen O’Shea, and Topeka City Councilwoman Hannah Naeger shared why they decided to run for public office and what it is like to serve their communities.
Key takeaways from the conference:
- Adapt to shatter limitations and thrive. The business world is constantly evolving, so it’s important to be able to recognize personal limitations and to adapt to new challenges and opportunities.
- Connect with others. Building relationships with other women in business can provide you with valuable support and mentorship.
- Lead with confidence. Believe in yourself and your abilities, and don’t be afraid to take risks.
The WIB offers value for all Kansas women in business, regardless of industry or stage of career development. Attendees left the conference feeling empowered to take their careers to new heights.
