The SBN provides resources to help women in the automotive aftermarket advance in their careers. The SBN Women's Leadership Forum, which took place earlier this month in Southern California, is no exception.
Over 60 women participated in the second annual program, which featured new and inspiring keynotes, education sessions, and networking opportunities to help women reach their personal and professional goals.
"I really enjoyed my experience. This was my first networking event with the SBN and it was exactly what I hoped," said Penelope Moroso of Moroso Performance Products, Inc. "I met a lot of very inspiring women and connected with women who share similar challenges. It was nice to hear how they overcame obstacles and how their experiences helped them reach their personal and professional goals."
New to the 2023 program was an Education Roadmap that helped women learn how to elevate their impact and influence. Sessions included "Six Keys to Building a Winning Team," "Gender Equity and HR," "Being Fit to Lead," and "Face Failure Fearlessly." Daily sunrise activities, networking breakfasts and action planning sessions allowed members to share their own experiences and give each other support and advice.
"I met some great women through networking and have already exchanged conversation with them after the event," said Aliceje Keyburn of Yamaha Motor Corp. "I loved the 'queen bee' syndrome Angelia spoke about. I also enjoyed Shaundra's story of her first failed talk but not giving up. Erin King brought a lot of energy and I loved the 'borrow someone's cape' tip. I took a personal impact on the importance of my own health and fitness and how that effects my day-to-day decisions, energy level and my ability to work better."
Desiree Chandler of Dee Zee Manufacturing added, "I'm already looking for ways to implement the things I've learned into my own presence and leadership style."
The event also served as a venue to kick off SBN's 30th anniversary being celebrated this year in 2023, and included a photographer offering members a chance to receive professional headshots, and a display of the All-Female Bronco Build that debuted at the 2022 SEMA Show.