Leadership Forums

This is your opportunity to experience the impact of the award recipients’ leadership in a personal way. Select one recipient and participate in a deep dive on critical issues impacting women in Texas through a moderated discussion. Questions will be welcomed from the audience.

4:00-4:45 PM

EmPOWERing Representation

Adeeba Raheem – El Paso, TX
University of Texas at El Paso

Making space for women and economically disadvantaged students in the areas of civil and construction engineering programs has been Adeeba Raheems’s mission as a professor at the University of Texas at El Paso. She has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to fostering gender diversity in construction by creating more inclusive environments in her classroom and programs. In this forum, we will explore the significance of diversity in underrepresented fields and discuss strategies for fostering transformative change across various industries to empower women and girls.

4:00-4:45 PM

EmPOWERing Wellness

Hilda McClure – Dallas, TX
Cannenta Center of Healing and Empowerment

Prioritizing the mental health empowerment of women is crucial for their overall well-being and happiness, and this has been Hilda McClure's primary focus as the Chief Operating Officer of the Cannenta Center for Healing and Empowerment. With a specific emphasis on Latinas, she has been instrumental in supporting them to achieve both their professional and personal aspirations through the implementation of self-care and mentorship programs. In this forum, we will engage in conversations about dismantling barriers and overcoming stigmas associated with mental health across all cultures, recognizing the potential to strengthen communities for the better.

4:00-4:45 PM

EmPOWERing Mentorship

Jamila Thomas – Dallas, TX
Big Brothers, Big Sisters

Jamila Thomas has been a passionate advocate for fostering the growth, development, and leadership of the next generation of women leaders. Her impactful efforts in establishing programs and services designed to educate, inspire, and empower young women have left an indelible mark. In this meaningful conversation, the spotlight will be on exploring how individuals can leverage their talents and experiences to contribute to the personal and professional development of young women, enabling them to realize their full potential.

5:00-5:45 PM

EmPOWERing Resilience

Heather Bellino – Austin, TX
Texas Advocacy Project

Fighting for the rights of all victims so they can flourish despite their past trauma is the service that Heather Bellino has provided to many. Throughout Texas, she has been a beacon of service, employing innovation, integrity, courage, and empowerment in her leadership to tackle the intricate challenges posed by sexual assault, domestic and dating violence, child abuse, and human trafficking. This discussion aims to illuminate the pivotal role each of us plays in using our voices to bring about positive change.

5:00-5:45 PM

EmPOWERing Authenticity

Marsha Clark – Dallas, TX
Marsha Clark and Associates

Marsha Clark places a strong emphasis on the conviction that maintaining authenticity throughout life's journey and goal achievement is paramount. Through her leadership development programs, meticulously designed for women, Marsha has created a vibrant initiative aimed at nurturing the growth of dynamic leaders. Her objective is to empower women to bolster each other by fostering authentic connections and creating opportunities for others to join them in leadership. This enlightening conversation will explore the individual and collective power women possess to discover and embrace their unique strengths.

5:00-5:45 PM

EmPOWERing a Spirit of Service

Cimajie Best – Dallas, TX
Allyn Media

When you build people up and encourage them to achieve their goals, it strengthens your own self-worth and confidence. Through her commendable community engagement and program development initiatives, Cimajie Best has skillfully paved the way for success, particularly for young girls and the community at large. With foresight and innovation, she has demonstrated a commitment to creating pathways for others to thrive. In our upcoming conversation with her, we will delve into the significance of channeling passion and dedication towards serving those in your community.