women_of_color_web.jpgFORT LAUDERDALE — The Second Annual Women of Color Empowerment Conference lit up Fort Lauderdale Aug. 11 with sessions that included a special luncheon featuring nationally recognized Atlanta-based powerhouse Xernona Clayton, president/CEO of the Trumpet Awards, as keynote speaker.

Several organizations – including the North Broward County Chapter of The Links, Inc.; the Broward County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority; The Right Group; and the Zeta Rho Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority – were involved in planning the conference, held at the Urban League of Broward County’s new Community Empowerment Center on Northwest 27th Avenue.

BUILDING

With the theme, Building Relationships Uniting Leaders, organizers said, the event focused on educating and motivating “dynamic Women of Color” to more effectively lead organizations, launch effective campaigns and take full advantage of technology in today’s marketplace.

The conference drew federal, state and local leaders of color, including women at the top of their fields, such as Florida Supreme Court Justice Peggy Quince, whose retention attendees were encouraged to support in November.

The day ended with a presentation from Judy Smith, top American crisis management expert and the inspiration behind the hit television show Scandal.

In between, performing during the luncheon was noted jazz artist Simone, daughter of Nina Simone.

INSPIRATION

Concurrent seminars throughout the day included leadership training in areas ranging from corporate management to health care, technology and government.

Burnadette-Norris Weeks, an attorney and the conference chair, said the event “was a huge success and met all of our expectations. Knowledge is power and when we share it, the sky is the limit.”