(Next)Woman Up

Challenge

Amongst the increasing conversations around the experiences of women, the #MeToo and #TimesUp movements emerged. Women felt more empowered to share their own stories, and these movements gave them a platform unlike any other.

But the more conversations that took place, the more everyone realized that some voices were being lost in the mix or simply weren’t represented. And in many cases, while the problem was accurately depicted, it wasn’t always balanced with new perspectives and solutions to enable action.

People were looking for more intimate, safe places to wrestle with these issues and channel their energy toward moving the country forward, but those opportunities for conversation weren’t always easy to find.

Solution

My business partner and I wanted to bring solutions forward that would positively contribute to the overall conversation. Identifying the need to redefine what’s possible for the experience of women in today’s world, I devised a branded speaker program that would elevate examples of action, proactivity, and empowerment. 

I created (Next)Woman Up, showcasing successful and inspiring female influencers, leaders, artists, and activists. The event served as a call-to-action to our event attendees—to work for the difference they want to see made in the world. Through this meaningful dialogue, my business partner interviewed women across numerous industries, painting a comprehensive picture of the impact women have on organizations when they have a seat at the table. Through the sharing of their individual experiences, the program raised further awareness of the old ideas and beliefs that limit the potential of people and organizations while celebrating the impact women have in every field.

Speakers included: 

• Laurel J Richie
  Former President of the WNBA, Board Chair at Dartmouth College

• Cassandra Gaddo
  Managing Director of Step Up, Chicago Chapter

• Michelle B Larson, PhD
  CEO of Adler Planetarium

• Jenn White
  Host of The Morning Shift on WBEZ

• Eva Maddox
  Former Design Principal at Perkins + Will, Co-Founder of Archeworks

• Wendy Clark
  Global President & CEO of DDB Worldwide

• Dr. Teresa Garate
  Former State Officer in the Gov. Quinn Administration

• Justice Anne M Burke
  Illinois Supreme Court Justice, Founder of the Special Olympics

• Liz Dozier
  Founder & CEO of Chicago Beyond

• Betsy Ziegler
  CEO of 1871

• Alicia Driskill
  Founder & CEO of evolveHer

• Johanna Grange
  Co-Founder of Oak Street Social

My role: Strategy, Creative Direction, Design, Copywriting

I love your vision, passion, and aspirations—as well as the opportunity to connect and inspire.

—
Laurel J Richie, Former President of the WNBA, Board Chair at Dartmouth College

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