Young & Empowered Women's 3rd Annual Empow[her] Conference: Addressing the Gender Wage Gap and Beyond
More than 175 young professionals gathered on June 24th for Young & Empowered Women’s 3rd Annual Empow[her] Conference.
Marking its founding anniversary, the Scottsdale-based nonprofit organized a professional development event featuring esteemed guest speakers such as Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, Anna Maria Chávez of the Arizona Community Foundation, and Angelee Andorfer-Lopez of Manifest House. The event, emceed by Nicole Crites of Arizona's Family, delved into vital topics like combating the gender gap, overcoming imposter syndrome, and effective salary negotiation strategies.
Veronica Aguilar, Y&E Founder, emphasized the significant purpose of the organization, stating, “We must always keep in mind the bigger picture—the persisting gender gap in our society. Women, especially women of color, continue to face systemic inequities that hinder their progress. This is unacceptable, and it is why Young & Empowered Women exists. We're committed to closing this gender gap, breaking down barriers, and envisioning a future where every woman enjoys equal opportunities to succeed and flourish.”
Mayor Kate Gallego shared her journey to becoming the second female mayor for the city of Phoenix which encouraged attendees to ask the hard questions and fight for what we deserve.
During her keynote address, Anna Maria Chávez emphasized the importance of growth and self-advocacy: “In the journey of success, cherish the ten individuals in your front row—they fuel our growth. Share your value persistently, for unseen value gains no recognition. Express your needs openly, for unexpected allies may fuel your dreams."
The afternoon featured a mentorship roundtable, allowing young professionals to seek career advice from 19 influential female leaders representing diverse industries in the Valley:
Catherine Anaya
Angelee Andorfer-Lopez
Ashlee Atkins
Laura Capello
Rebecca Childress
Elora Diaz
Kathleen Duffy
Debbie Esparza
Sandy Martinez
Tamala McBath
Carletta Miller
Breanna Naegeli
Erin Oliphant
Stella O'Rourke
Doris Savron
Christina Spicer
Velma Trayham
Monica Trejo
Jennifer Villalobos
A powerful mindfulness session led by Angelee Andorfer-Lopez of Manifest House focused on envisioning one's future self, leaving many attendees deeply moved.
The event also showcased a female-owned and operated business expo, featuring sponsors like Girl Scouts–Arizona Cactus-Pine, YWCA, and the Sparkle Bar. With the support of these organizations and individual donors, the event successfully raised over $7,000 in honor of the upcoming induction of Young & Empowered Women’s 7th cohort.
About Young & Empowered Women
The values of Y&E were first introduced in 2020, a time when networking and career coaching would be redefined. In the past two years, members have been able to expand their networks, be introduced to powerhouse female leaders and receive personalized skill development and coaching. Learn more at www.yewomensassociation.com/
