Celebrating Women’s History Month: Real Talk, Bold Moves, and Building Your Path

This Women’s History Month, Girls with Impact brought together an incredible community of future leaders and trailblazing professionals for a powerful virtual Breakroom event. Facilitated by Anyah Lewis, GWI Director of Engagement and Research Manager, the session welcomed over 50 attendees for an evening of honest conversation, connection, and inspiration.

A Powerhouse Panel

The event featured a dynamic group of women across industries:

• Kendall Ellis: 2x Olympian and Olympic medalist

• Tianna Soto: Journalist and keynote speaker; former editor at Women’s Health Magazine 

• Maya Eaglin: On-air reporter for MSNBC NOW

• Christina Cevetillo: CEO and founder of Sage Marketing & Media

• Ymorah Blakley: Visa Leadership Accelerator Associate and founder of The Up & Coming

Each panelist shared candid insights into her career journey, highlighting both the wins and the realities behind success.

Key Takeaways from Women Leading the Way

1. Advocate for Yourself; No One Else Will Do It for You
A major theme of the conversation was the importance of self-advocacy at every stage of your career. As Soto shared, “You have to have your own back… people won’t always advocate for you, no matter how hard you work.” Panelists emphasized that speaking up, asking for opportunities, and owning your value are critical skills, especially early in your career.

2. Confidence Comes Before You Feel Ready
Imposter syndrome showed up for every panelist in different ways, from walking into rooms where they felt underdressed to navigating male-dominated spaces.

Ellis offered a powerful mindset shift, saying, “If I'm walking to a space where I don't necessarily feel like I belong, I like to try to think: I wouldn't be presented this opportunity if I wasn't supposed to have it. I wouldn't be in this room if I wasn't supposed to be here. I'm here for a reason. I am valid in being here.” Even when confidence doesn’t come naturally, practicing that belief can change how you show up.

3. Your Path Will Change. Lean Into It.
There was strong consensus that career journeys are rarely linear, and that’s a good thing. Blakely opened up about her own journey, sharing, “I studied business economics and thought I wanted to go into wealth management and finance. And then I had my first finance internship and realized that I didn’t like the day-to-day practice of being deep in the numbers and it wasn’t what I wanted to do for a career. What you’re studying is not always going to look the same in the actual position or role, so you have to be willing to examine your interests and move forward from there.”

As Ellis added, “You don’t know what you don’t know until you’re in it… and there’s no shame in changing paths.” Exploring different roles, internships, and opportunities helps clarify what you actually want, and gives you permission to pivot when needed.

4. Be Intentional About Your Circle
Success isn’t just about what you do, it’s also about who you surround yourself with. Maya Eaglin spoke candidly about outgrowing relationships and the importance of boundaries:

“One thing that I've had to learn as I continue into adulthood and continue my career is the power of editing your circles. It's really difficult in your late teens and early twenties. People are evolving and changing so quickly, and everyone's on their own path. Just because you started an era together doesn’t mean you’ll end it together.” She encouraged attendees to understand “what they were willing to accept as a friend” and invest in relationships that offer truly mutual support, accountability, and encouragement.

5. Growth Happens in Discomfort
Stepping outside your comfort zone was a consistent piece of advice throughout the evening. As Christina Cevetillo put it, “I would suggest putting yourself in places that are uncomfortable. And I guarantee you're going to make a friend there because they're also going to be uncomfortable. My favorite motto is: seek discomfort.” Whether it’s trying something new, entering unfamiliar spaces, or taking on a challenge that feels intimidating, those moments often lead to the greatest growth and connection.

A Space to Reflect and Celebrate

The evening wrapped with breakout sessions where attendees shared personal wins and reflected on what they’re letting go of, creating a powerful sense of community and celebration.

At GWI, we’re proud to create spaces where young women can learn, connect, and be inspired by those leading the way. This Women’s History Month, we explored the real stories and challenges behind success, while celebrating wins along the way.

Thank you to our amazing panel who shared their time, expertise, and insight with our attendees. Here’s to continuing to show up, speak up, and lift up the next generation.