Inspired By Real Life: 2 Power Tool Champions Offer Needed Support To Global Communities
What does it take to transform challenge into change?
For two outstanding leaders and Take The Lead Power Tool Champions, their stories of advocacy and excellence changed not only their lives, but the lives of so many others as well as systems that now support them.
At the Power Up 2025 Conference on Women’s Equality Day August 26, Dr. Winter Okoth, PhD., ScM, infectious disease scientist, is honored with the Trailblazer Award; and Kathy Jefferson, children’s disability advocate, is honored with The Change Catalyst Award. Both embody the drive and selflessness of entrepreneurs directing effective change, reflecting the conference theme, Courage To Lead.
The Power To Reshape Fashion Around Women’s Real Lives
By Natalie West
I was leaving a meeting with a U.S.-based manufacturer when he asked what sizes I offered. I said, “Extra small through extra large.” His response? “I can’t believe you’re encouraging women to be fat and out of shape.”
In that instant, I knew I couldn’t work with someone whose views were not only discriminatory but fundamentally opposed to my values. Walking away set my production back, but it was the only choice. I will never compromise on creating clothing that celebrates and supports women of all shapes and sizes, nor will I tolerate inequity in my business relationships.
I once read that "You Are Not Alone" is the all-time most opened newsletter headline. At first I thought that was kind of pathetic. Then I realized it is exactly how I want to feel right now. Unlike the famous Greta Garbo plea for solitude, I don't want to be alone. I'd especially love to see your shining face at the Power Up Concert and Conference on August 26 in Washingto, D.C..
The conference theme is “Courage to Lead,” and the first essential element of courage is simply showing up.
Attend.
Register for the Power Up 2025 Conference so you can learn, share, connect and create with courageous leaders and entrepreneurs.
🚨 7 DAYS LEFT: Power Up "Courage to Lead" 2025 🚨 August 25-26, 2025 | Washington, DC In just one week, 300 of the most powerful leaders will gather for the leadership event of the year. Will you be there? 🔥 Why You Can't Miss This We're living in times that demand extraordinary courage from leaders. This isn't just a conference—it's your blueprint for leading through disruption and owning your power. ⭐ Meet Your Incredible Honorees 🎵 Marina Arsenijevic - Wear the Shirt Award The Serbian-American singer who left her homeland with one suitcase after courageously performing concerts promoting tolerance despite political pressure.
🏆 9 Leadership Power Tools Champions Women who've transformed their careers using our proven framework—each leading exclusive workshops.
💼 Leading Women - Margery Kraus; Leading Media - Christine Brennan & Leading Men - "Good Guys" W. Brad Johnson & David Smith Trailblazers who broke through barriers others were afraid to tackle.
🚨 What You're Missing If You're Not There The Conversations: Real connections with leaders solving the challenges you face The Insights: How each honoree chose courage over comfort—and how it changed everything The Community: Joining a movement that continues long after DC The Transformation: Leave with clarity, purpose, and an action plan
🎟️ Final Call Limited spots. Intimate round-table setting. Spaces filling fast. This is your week. Seven days from now, you could be at a table with women who've shattered glass ceilings and built movements. Or you could be reading about it later, wishing you had been there. Register now: www.thepowerupconference.com
Eye-Opener of The Week:
Do You Have The Courage To Lead?
Take The Lead's Power Up Conference 2025 on Women's Equality Day 8/26 in Washington, D.C. offers a day of speakers, champions, panels, networking, goal-setting and mentoring. You need this call to action whether you're running a company, a team, or just trying to lead your life with intention, this conference is your launchpad.In a complicated and chaotic culture, you can learn how to leaad with vision, clarity, authenticity and enact the power to change your life and work.
Take The Lead prepares, develops, inspires, and propels all women of all diversities and intersectionalities to take their fair and equal share of leadership positions across all sectors by 2025. Learn more at www.taketheleadwomen.com.