During the first ever CWIP Virtual Career Expo hosted by the GIRLS committee on February 15, you could truly feel the warmth despite winter storms and bitter cold thanks to the passion of the professional women and enthusiasm of the girls.12 professional women participated in the Virtual Career Expo representing a diverse range of careers including entrepreneurs, legal professionals, a lobbyist, a pediatrician, a visual artist, a make-up artist, a news anchor, and a yoga instructor. Young women representing high schools from across Chicagoland participated, including Intrinsic High School, Saint Ignatius College Prep, and Oak Park River Forest High School.The speakers shared their experience of how they discovered their passions and how that led them to their career, how to juggle multiple interests, navigating career changes, and managing career burn-out. Thoughtful questions from the young women participating drove a lively and rich conversation. The event was filled with encouraging words, offers to share additional opportunities and resources, and requests to follow-up and learn more. “I am extremely appreciative of the speakers for taking the time to talk to us and it really provided me with more insight on how I want to approach my decisions after college and for my career,” one young woman shared. “Fabulous speakers and very engaged young ladies!”, another participant commented.Here is some of the best career (and life) advice shared during the Virtual Career Expo:
“You don't have to stay in one career for the rest of your life. It's always ok to make changes.”
- Colleen Norton, Holy Family Ministries
“Figure out what brings you joy, curiosity, and excitement and this will help you find your path. Your job should give you energy.”
- make-up artist Brenda Arelano
“Discover your superpowers by asking yourself these three questions: What do other people say you are good at? What do you think you are good at? What is holding you back?”
- lawyer, podcaster, and disability activist Qudsiya Naqui
“Find something you love, and build off of that. Learning what you like and don't like is key”
- Courtney Mahoney, Senior Vice President of Operations for Chicago Wolves Hockey Team
“Don't be afraid to try different things. Commit to a project, complete that project, and then move on to something new.” - lobbyist Anne Schaffer“It takes guts to start your own business.”
- restaurateur Chermaine Rickette
“Wearing a lot of different hats is what makes an entrepreneur successful, and I realized I was an entrepreneur.”
- Rachel Hanley, founder of PicDiversity
Shoutout to speakers Brenda Arelano, who impressed with her chic hairstyle, and Chermaine Rickette, who dazzled with her stylish accessories. #cwipwhozoomedbestThe GIRLS (Girls Igniting Real Leadership & Service) Committee is co-chaired by Clare Butterfield and Gwen McNutt and focuses on the needs of girls. This committee provides mentoring and service opportunities with and for girls. This committee was formed to advance the CWIP mission to build an inclusive community educating and empowering Chicagoland women and to support young, emerging female leaders to develop their leadership skills and find their voices.The GIRLS Committee is currently seeking additional members, and is specifically looking for volunteers interested in communications. To learn more about the GIRLS Committee and how to become involved, email info@cwiponline.org.
