As Women’s History Month draws near to a close, the women of Gatesman reflect on another successful annual International Women’s Day (#IWD) celebration. This year, more than 50 female executives, across industries, were invited to Have a Seat at Our Table for an afternoon luncheon that included high-energy and empowering speakers that delivered one critical message: Before we shoulder the care of others, we must first take care of ourselves. The day’s programming addressed whole-health topics including movement and nutrition, financial acumen and planning, and mental health and stress management.

IWD is more than just an annual event at Gatesman—it’s a passion and a purpose that runs deep. The agency proudly boasts 70% female C-suite leadership, a testament to its unwavering belief that the world thrives when women are leading and empowered. The agency also announced its newest research initiative: Women ReKNOWN. Led by SVP, Director of Strategic Communications Susan English, the research report will explore the complexity of female consumers and the best ways to connect, influence and sell to this influential audience. Backed by statistical insights and AI-augmented analysis, and balanced with first-hand perspectives, it builds a fresh understanding of women from the ground up.

The Speaker’s Lineup

In addition, this year’s celebration featured three powerful speakers tapped to help women take control of their wellness and empowerment:

  • "The Power of Movement" presented by Coach Ally Gipson, writer, editor and photojournalist: It all started with the reminder to “put the mask on first.” By making time to move, women can infuse more energy into their day and show up more fully for themselves and others. Movement isn’t just exercise; it’s a commitment to feeling more alive, more present and more powerful.
  • "Women Driving Financial Wellness" presented by Lisa Haley, Market Executive, JP Morgan Chase & Co.: It’s not just about making money; it’s about owning your power as an investor. The discussion underscored that women are equipped with the solid tools and resources to build financial wellness—and when they do, they can achieve incredible things.
  • "Healthy Mindfulness" presented by Janne Alexander, Owner of TAN’ATARA Healing LLC: In the midst of life’s busyness and chaos, learning to recognize stressful patterns is crucial. The wellness conversation focused on how to reset, even through something as simple as a five-minute breathing exercise. Breathwork is a journey of going within, reconnecting with yourself, releasing stress and tension from the body and finding calm, relaxation and ease.

Together, these sessions empowered attendees to embrace a holistic approach to self-care, driving home the point that when women thrive, the world flourishes. 

From establishing community to engaging discussions, to wellness activities and dynamic speakers, the event was all about giving women the tools they needed to recharge, refocus and rise to their fullest potential. When women thrive, the world flourishes!

So whether you joined us in person or want to catch the highlights online, we captured every empowering moment on social media, and throughout the year you can follow us to experience the energy, wisdom and sense of community we cultivate at Gatesman.

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