The fifth annual Women’s Empowerment Conference, a Signature Event hosted by YWCA Northcentral PA, is set to take place on Wednesday, March 11, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Pennsylvania College of Technology. Designed to motivate, uplift, and empower women, this full-day event promises a dynamic lineup of inspirational speakers, engaging breakout sessions, and an insightful panel discussion focused on various aspects of women’s wellness. This year’s conference is poised to leave attendees inspired and motivated, offering ample opportunities for networking and connection.
Now in its third year at the Pennsylvania College of Technology, the conference has grown significantly, utilizing the Field House for the full group and classrooms across the campus for breakout sessions. This year’s event introduces a significant change, allowing participants to choose two breakout sessions, a response to feedback from previous attendees seeking more engagement opportunities.
Beth McClain, YWCA Director of Development, expressed enthusiasm about the event’s evolution, “It’s been great to see this event evolve over the years. Each year, we take the feedback of our guests and try to outdo ourselves the following year. One of the biggest things we heard back is that selecting just one breakout session was too hard and they asked for two, so that’s what we’re giving them this year!”
Though each conference has offered networking opportunities in the past, McClain says it’s one thing guests can’t get enough of and always ask for more.
“Our guests revisit the conference for a number of reasons, but the biggest one seems to be the opportunity for connection,” McClain said. “The ladies truly enjoy meeting new people and having time specifically carved out to do just that. This year, we’ll deliver that for them by wrapping it into some fun networking activities which will be led by Katie Ecker. I think they’re going to love what we have mapped out for them!”
Headlining the conference is Linh Huynh, international keynote speaker and former refugee turned global adventurer. Linh plans to inspire her audience to thrive in uncertainty through curiosity, resilience, and bold action. Her message will resonant particularly for women seeking empowerment, connection, and clarity during transitional periods.
Also joining the speaker lineup is Williamsport native Kim Brown. As a motivational speaker, Kim emphasizes that transformation starts with honesty, courage, and connection. Attendees can look forward to hearing her share her inspiring journey, which has been shaped by personal challenges, reinvention, and philanthropy, all underscored by her strong dedication to personal growth.
Breakout session speakers include:
– Angela Miele, owner of Angela Miele Healing Arts, presenting “A Sound Healing Journey” (guests are encouraged to bring a yoga mat &/or blanket)
– Elisa Allen, founder of e360fit, discussing “The 7 S’s for Transformation: Supporting Metabolism, Hormones, and Long-Term Health”
– Keshia McDonald, owner of Keek’s Boutique, guiding attendees in “Discovering a ‘YOU’nique Style”
– Brianna Rybka, Civic Engagement Manager for the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania, with “Women Leading Change: Tools for Civic Action”
– Sonya Miles, Family Nurse Practitioner at River Valley Health, exploring “Your Hormones, Your Health: Making Sense of the Connection”
Detailed descriptions of each breakout session are available online. Due to classroom sizes, seating is limited and sessions are offered on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Rounding out the conference, guests will participate in an interactive panel discussion on “Empowering Wellness” where we will focus on nurturing the whole self of women — mind, body, and soul. Panel moderator will be Jennifer Lake, founder and Executive Director of Dwell. Panelists include conference breakout speakers Sonya Miles, Angela Miele, and Elisa Allen.
Participants seeking event updates, sponsorship details, and ticket information are encouraged to visit the Women’s Empowerment Conference on the YWCA’s Facebook event page. Tickets are available by visiting https://tinyurl.com/YWCA2026-WEC. Online registration closes on March 6.
Sponsorship opportunities for the Women’s Empowerment Conference are still available. Sponsors will gain exposure to nearly 250 women from Lycoming County who are eager to learn, connect, and grow. Those interested in sponsorship can contact Beth McClain, YWCA Development Director, via email at bmcclain@ywcawilliamsport.org or by phone at (570) 322-4637, ext. 127.
YWCA Northcentral PA remains committed to community engagement through various special events each year. These initiatives aim to raise awareness, foster community involvement, and provide crucial funding for the organization’s programs. With each event bringing unique themes and energy, the consistent goal is to connect with the community, share a message of hope and resilience, and support life-saving programs.
