The 25th Annual Texas Conference for Women, held in Austin, Texas, on October 2nd, was a powerful gathering celebrating women’s leadership, personal development, and empowerment. Attended by thousands of women from diverse backgrounds, the conference provided a platform for networking, education, and inspiration.
The event kicked off with morning sessions dealing with executive insights, wellness, learning, and networking. Then, there was time for attendees to visit all the different partners in the exhibition hall, which included a women owned business hub, career hub, wellness hub, and more.
After the brief intermission, the dynamic keynotes began in a conversational format, starting with author and social activist Isabel Allende, who spoke of her experiences growing up, her past marriages and current marriage, and where she found her courage to stand up for women’s rights in a time and place that made it very dangerous to do so.
Actress, social media personality, and Emmy Award winning host (among other things) Tabitha Brown, was also a keynote speaker. She told of how she always knew she was going to be famous, but not sure of what would bring her notoriety. Tabitha also shared about dealing with her mother passing away and also fighting through life threatening issues of her own plus how it taught her to live her life freely. “I think my assignment is to be free and to show others that they can be free too. Be your true self,” Tabitha Brown stated.
Sara Blakely, owner and founder of Spanx, and actor, producer, and activist Julia Louis-Dreyfus were keynotes as well, each telling how they reached success in their respective fields and boundaries they are still overcoming. Dreyfus mentioned, “As women age, they become hidden by society. We always hear about the old wise man but never the old wise woman.”
Following the keynote, attendees had the opportunity to participate in various breakout sessions and workshops led by experts in fields such as entrepreneurship, technology, wellness, and leadership. Topics ranged from negotiating salaries and workplace strategies to mental health and maintaining work-life balance. These sessions provided actionable insights and tools that women could apply in their careers and personal lives, fostering an atmosphere of growth and empowerment.
Networking opportunities were abundant throughout the day, allowing attendees to connect with like-minded women and potential mentors. The conference’s exhibit hall showcased innovative products and services from women-owned businesses, further reinforcing the spirit of female entrepreneurship. Many participants left with new contacts, collaborative ideas, and a renewed sense of ambition to pursue their dreams.
The event concluded with a rousing end-of-day party and book signings. The party was led by DJ KICKIT, a Mexican-American artist who blends classic hip-hop, funk, and Latino favorites into her mixes. She has played all over Austin, has performed at ACL Music Festival, and has even received a Proclamation from the City of Austin, marking May 17th as “DJ KICKIT Day”.
It was announced that the 2025 Texas Conference for Women will be held at the Moody Center on October 29, 2025. So be on the lookout for more information and ticket sales.
Overall, the 2024 Texas Conference for Women was a remarkable success, leaving attendees inspired and energized to take action in their personal and professional lives. The event not only celebrated the achievements of women but also fostered a sense of solidarity and support among participants. As a result, many left the conference feeling empowered to pursue their ambitions, armed with new tools, connections, and the invaluable reminder that together, women can break barriers and create lasting change.
Learn more about The Conference for Women and its multiple state conferences.