Over 80 people came together on Nov. 15 for YWCA Glendale’s second annual EmpowHER Networking Brunch and Women’s Leadership Panel event. With the theme of “Becoming a Woman of Influence,” the panel discussion featured marketing, finance, technology, real estate and civil service leaders who are striving to support emerging women leaders in the community.

The event opened with a reflective statement by YWCA Glendale’s executive director, Tara Peterson.  

“YWCA Glendale’s 92-year history has been shaped by women of influence, women who used their power and resources to address injustices and to elevate those less privileged,” said Peterson. “Today, I am proud to see so many women and men come together to use our power to empower others.”

Moderated by Tamar Sadd of the City of Glendale, panelists Ana Quintana of She Ventures in Tech, Kendyl Young of DIGGS, Jessica McConnell First of Kilter, Catherine Nguyen from the City of Glendale Forensics Lab, and Toni Beck Espinoza from Morgan Stanley gave insight into their paths to success, and how their successes have consequentially influenced other women in their fields. During the Q&A, panelist Kendyl Young discussed setting goals and achieving them, regardless of any obstacles. When asked about being open to opportunities, she said, “Adopt an attitude of ‘yes’ to walk through the door; leave fears and doubts to the side to do it.”

Many generous sponsors helped to ensure broad participation by subsidizing student tickets and underwriting on-site childcare, free to event participants. Proceeds from the event will go toward YWCA Glendale’s services to women and families in the Glendale and surrounding communities.