East Bay Women's Conference

San Ramon Marriott

There is one time a year when I can really open my mind and heart for a full day to listen and learn and laugh.

With one exception, since 2010 my group, Invera Wealth Advisors, has been a sponsor of the East Bay Women's Conference, presented by the Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau. And already I look forward to sponsoring next year’s conference—that’s how extraordinary the conference is in design and impact.

This year's keynote speaker was the incomparable Ashley Judd, feminist, social justice humanitarian and award-winning actor. Special featured guests were Amaryllis Fox, writer, peace activist, and former CIA Clandestine Service Officer; and Debi Hemmeter, founder and co-advisor at Lean In. These articulate and passionate women brought us to our feet and goose bumps to our arms. Amazingly, each of them shared the same essential message in these times of frustration, disillusion and fear: Listening is not the same as agreeing. Each of us must engage in active conversation, even (or maybe especially) with people we really do not understand. Only then can we find points of convergence that will lead our country forward. I left the conference with a deep sense of responsibility, and even hope.

Every year I say, “How can this get better?” And yet, every year it does. I have clients from all walks of life—all ages, political leanings, and religious backgrounds—and this conference speaks to each and every one of them. The culture of the conference is respectful; the charged atmosphere generated by the attendees is profound. This is an experience like no other. The all-day EBWC sells out every year, drawing close to 600 professionals, entrepreneurs, community leaders—mothers, sisters, daughters—who come together to learn, network, socialize, and explore possibilities.

How do I account for the success of the EBWC, now in its 12th year? The conference always stays relevant. The talented and innovative Agenda Committee always finds and secures speakers who speak to the driving issues of the day—plus, they like to have fun! We can have fun while learning, and this conference proves that.

This is what I would like for you to know: The East Bay Women’s Conference is not a pajama party! This is a unique combination of high-level business advice; lifestyle help; and personal, soul-baring sharing under one roof, within one day, amidst close to 600 of the most intelligent, influential, and interesting women you could ever meet. I look forward to next year’s 2018 East Bay Women’s Conference at the San Ramon Marriott on Monday, March 5—and I hope you will join me!