The seed for what has become the “I Am That Woman Movement” was planted in 2014, during my 43rd birthday celebration with 43 women who had inspired, influenced, and deeply impacted my life. It wasn’t just a birthday—it was an exchange of wisdom, as we discussed health and wellness, relationships, spirituality and how to truly live life.
I had an inner yearning to “check-in” on my life’s direction, to hear from elders, mentors and girlfriends about their journeys. As an old soul, I’ve always loved listening to the life stories of wise women. So, I created an intentional experience where I could listen, learn and reflect. What I didn’t realize then was that God was planting a seed of purpose in me—a passion for holistic wellness for Black women.
Mrs. Jacqueline Jackson, wife of Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr., and one of my mentors, encouraged me to keep this vision alive beyond that birthday celebration. She shared her wisdom about the power that manifests when we, as women, gather and share our truths. And she was right—I witnessed that power firsthand. From that moment, the “I Am That Woman” movement and retreat was born.
This year, we celebrate a major milestone—our 5th Annual “I Am That Woman Retreat,” held October 2-6 at the Westin Beach Resort and Spa at Frenchman’s Reef in St. Thomas.
It exceeded all expectations! The journey hasn’t always been easy, but through faith and perseverance, I’ve learned that when God gives you a vision, He will always make provision.
Our world-renowned speakers—Dr. Portia Lockett (Grief Specialist), Karyn Calabrese (Nutrition Specialist), Tori Prince (International Beauty Expert), Valerie Tyler (Certified Physical Fitness Trainer), Cassandra Cummings (Financial and Investment Expert), Dr. Jeanne Porter King (Leadership Coach), Attorney Adrienne Dudley (USVI Attorney), Latia Vaughan (Futurist), and Orlena Nworkah Blanchard (Entrepreneurial Expert)—shared transformative insights, resources and personal stories that set a new trajectory for our lives.
Since the first IATW Retreat in Mexico in 2018, our focus has shifted from merely what’s next to “Learning How to Live” through the six pillars of wellness: mental, emotional, physical, spiritual, financial and nutritional. This holistic approach offers a roadmap for our next life chapter. This year’s retreat, I believe, laid the foundation for the future of the “I Am That Woman Movement.”
Our focus on wellness as the path to professional productivity has empowered us to let go of the “Superwoman” myth that leaves us burned out, overwhelmed and stressed.
Instead, we are becoming healthier, wiser and more balanced women. The emphasis on personal and professional development encouraged us to reflect on how we care for ourselves and others. By taking the time to breathe and engage in self-discovery, we learned the value of leading from the heart—something we, as Black women, often overlook in our care for others and ourselves.
The luxurious destination in paradise, the 5-star Westin Resort, world-class speakers and the sisterhood of like-minded women from across the country marked this retreat as a significant milestone. We’re now moving forward with expanded online programs, resources and future events.
It is vital for Black women to embrace holistic living—mind, body, and spirit. The statistics on our health, particularly regarding chronic, stress-related illnesses, show that we are disproportionately affected compared to other ethnicities.
The “I Am That Woman Retreat” is more than just an event; it’s a MOVEMENT. We are setting a new standard for Black women to live healthier, wiser lives, both personally and professionally.
As Dr. Jeanne Porter King so powerfully said, we are no longer striving to be Super Women—we are becoming Well Women.
To hear the powerful sessions from the IATW Retreat, visit our YouTube channel and watch the replays. Learn how to live holistically in mind, body, and spirit!
Join the I Am That Woman Movement’s Learn How to Live series at www.iamthatwomanmovement.org.
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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