On May 11, 2019, I moderated the Economic Empowerment panel at the City of West Hollywood’s 13th Annual Women’s Leadership Conference, a full-day gathering bringing together hundreds of attendees for leadership workshops, advocacy training, networking, and conversations on advancing equity and opportunity.

Presented in partnership with the City’s advisory boards and community organizations, the conference explored topics ranging from civic engagement and media representation to social impact, entrepreneurship, and public leadership.

Panelists included Elisabeth Caren and Heather Hope-Allison, who shared reflections on leadership, entrepreneurship, and navigating career growth.

The discussion centered on an important question: What helps create conditions where women can succeed economically and lead with greater agency?

Economic empowerment influences more than income. It can shape opportunity, decision-making, representation, and participation across communities.

The conference reflected the City of West Hollywood’s broader commitment to invest in leadership development, advocacy, and spaces where diverse perspectives shape community conversations.