HomeNewsLocal newsPhoto Focus:  Second Annual Women of Resilience Conference Highlights Connection and Leadership

Photo Focus:  Second Annual Women of Resilience Conference Highlights Connection and Leadership

Attendees gather for the Women of Resilience Conference at the Elridge Wilburn Blake Sports and Fitness Center. (Source photo by Melissa Bryan)

Professionals from across the territory gathered Friday at the University of the Virgin Islands for the second annual Women of Resilience Conference, a full-day program focused on personal development, leadership, and building meaningful professional networks.

The UVI Research and Technology Park shares opportunities for innovation and development with participants during the event. (Source photo by Melissa Bryan)
Janette Millin-Young leads the discussion on the value of networking and relationship building. (Source photo by Melissa Bryan)

Hosted by Janette Millin-Young of Notable Events by Janette, the conference brought together presenters and attendees representing sectors including technology, tourism, law, entrepreneurship, and public service.

Attorney Marjorie “Jorie” Rawls Roberts discusses the power of negotiation in a session focused on strategic communication. (Source photo by Melissa Bryan)

Held at the Elridge Wilburn Blake Sports and Fitness Center, the program featured panel discussions, breakout sessions, and curated networking activities designed to foster collaboration and mentorship.

WTJX staff members connect with attendees at their information booth, sharing details on programming and outreach. (Source photo by Melissa Bryan)
Angela Dingle presents on artificial intelligence in the workplace, offering insights on ethical use and productivity tools. (Source photo by Melissa Bryan)

Sessions throughout the day addressed timely topics such as financial literacy, negotiation strategies, customer service leadership, and the ethical use of artificial intelligence in the workplace. Presenters shared practical tools while emphasizing the importance of continued education, strategic empowerment of teams, and representation in industries that have historically lacked gender balance.

Jane DiCola guides attendees through a brief mindfulness meditation as part of the program’s wellness segment. (Source photo by Melissa Bryan)
RaeNiece Cosmetics features a selection of locally made beauty products during the conference’s vendor showcase. (Source photo by Melissa Bryan)

A key theme across sessions was the importance of visibility and mentorship. Participants spoke to the value of authentic leadership, supporting one another’s growth, and ensuring that younger generations can see themselves reflected in professional roles. Organizers also introduced a men’s panel for the first time, providing space for conversations on inclusion and allyship in both professional and personal spheres.

Attendees take part in a networking activity during the Women of Resilience Conference, engaging with fellow professionals from across the Virgin Islands. The event encouraged relationship-building as a key part of personal and professional growth. (Source photo by Melissa Bryan)
Samuel Rey presents on customer service, emphasizing the importance of empowering teams to lead with care and confidence. (Source photo by Melissa Bryan)

Now in its second year, the Women of Resilience Conference continues to grow as a cornerstone event for business and leadership development in the Virgin Islands, offering attendees a platform for connection, collaboration, and collective advancement.

Participants network during a breakout session at the Women of Resilience Conference. (Source photo by Melissa Bryan)
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