The 3rd Annual Women’s Leadership Conference: Carrying Your Light & Living Well hosted by the Newark Board of Education on Saturday, March 23, 2024, was a truly empowering event for current and aspiring women leaders. Nearly 200 participants attended and were captivated by the committee dressed in theme colors, highlighting Carrying Your Light & Living Well. Throughout the conference, attendees were encouraged to recognize and harness their inner strength and leadership potential.
Dr. Yolanda Méndez, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resource Services, kicked off the event with a warm welcome, followed by inspiring greetings from Superintendent Roger León, and Board President Hasani K. Council. The keynote speaker, Dr. Mariel Buqué, delivered a powerful message that resonated with all in attendance. The message included her reflections during her time as a student at Dr. William H. Horton and the impact Superintendent León had in her life. She went on to share how her childhood impacted her to pursue a career in psychology. Another dynamic speaker, Judge Pratt, shared an empowering speech that guided participants through the necessary steps to put themselves first so they can unleash their gifts and unlock their full potential.
Seven breakout sessions were led by women leaders who offered a variety of topics for participants to choose from, Trust Your Magic and Light; Repair Your Light! Identifying and Coping with Childhood Trauma; Shining Through: Building Capacity and Wellness in Leadership; Powerful Essential Communication Skills Every Woman Needs to Shine Brightly in Business; How Right NOW; Parenting Support for Academic Success; and Be Powerful, Be You. Engaging conversations and interactions took place throughout the day, culminating in participants raising their candles to symbolize unity in Carrying Your Light & Living Well. Additionally, Wellness options such as Smoothie Bar, Massage Chair, Self-Care 101, Mindfulness, Meditation and Cooking Demo were available for participants to explore, adding an extra layer of rejuvenation to the conference experience.
The District extends a special thank you to the committee for their exceptional organization of an in-person event, and to all conference attendees who enthusiastically engaged and enjoyed the full conference experience.
Click here to view photos captured during the conference.