Happy Women’s History Month! What an incredible month filled with celebrations! I’ve had the pleasure of attending numerous events and programs dedicated to honoring women and their remarkable achievements in life. It’s been more than just a time of revelry; it’s been an opportunity for learning and connecting with other empowered women.
One of the standout moments for me this month was participating in a panel discussion hosted by Meetings Today magazine, a premier publication in the meetings and events industry. Titled “Women’s Leadership Through the Generations,” the webinar brought together five women from different generations and diverse cultural backgrounds, each sharing insights on navigating and succeeding in our industry over the years.
While the meetings and events industry predominantly comprise women, top leadership positions still remain male-dominated. During the discussion, we delved into our experiences, addressing the question of whether there’s ample room at the table for other women or if we’ve encountered barriers erected by fellow women.
I spoke candidly about experiencing both sides of the coin — encountering disrespect and disregard from women in leadership roles, but also receiving invaluable support and mentorship from others who championed my growth and success. Celebrating 23 years as an entrepreneur on March 16, I’m grateful for the opportunity to pave the way for other women in my field.
Collaboration has always been my guiding principle. I’ve never believed in hoarding knowledge or viewing fellow women as competitors. Recently, I was even told not to involve a young woman in our planning committee meetings for fear she might “steal” from me. My response? If she can embody my integrity, professionalism, confidence and decades of industry expertise, then she deserves it.
In life, both personally and professionally, collaboration is the key to progress.
As I grow older, I realize the importance of surrounding myself with a supportive tribe who can uplift, guide and inspire me. While it’s crucial to be discerning about who we allow into our circles, we must shift away from the mindset of competition and embrace collaboration.
Joining forces with other women not only fosters growth but also nullifies the need for unnecessary rivalry. Let’s uplift and support each other in our endeavors. I am proud to be THAT WOMAN, and I invite you to join the movement at www.iamthatwomanmovement.org.
Moreover, I invite you to celebrate Women’s History Month with us at our upcoming event honoring Media Mavens, including Dyanna Knight Lewis, Publisher of the Chicago Defender. Join us on Sunday, March 24, at Gibson’s Steakhouse for an enriching afternoon featuring an awards ceremony, panel discussion on Women & Wellness in the Workplace and a delectable lunch provided by Gibson’s Steakhouse. Dress to impress for the photobooth! Tickets are available for only $75.
Twyler L. Jenkins is one of the most sought-after event planners in the City of Chicago, since she founded Strategic Events Solutions in 2001. With more than 25 years in conference management, special event planning, and registration facilitation, she is considered an expert in optimizing event profitability. Ms. Jenkins has managed to provide these core competencies services to some of the most notable nonprofit and corporate organizations in Chicagoland. She has efficiently executed her services with excellence for The University of Chicago, The University of Chicago Medicine, McDonald’s, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Rainbow PUSH Coalition, Chicago Urban League, ComEd/Exelon, National Black MBA Association, the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, The Chicago Guardsmen and the Emmett Till Foundation, to name a few. In addition to her event management company, in 2018 Ms. Jenkins launched the I Am That Woman Movement and Retreat in Riviera Maya, Mexico. The IATW Movement and Retreat provides holistic wellness resources, events and programs locally and internationally to women.
Ms. Jenkins serves her community with the same creative and developmental excellence. She is the co-president of the board of directors for the South Side Community Art Center. She remains relative and connected as a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Meeting Professionals International, the Professional Convention Management Association, and the Alliance of Independent Meeting Managers.
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