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Meet the Gubernatorial Candidates – ELC Reception 2025 REGISTER

YWCA Northern New Jersey will bring together thought leaders, entrepreneurs and community advocates for its upcoming Women’s Leadership Conference featuring dynamic panel discussions and a keynote by media industry titan Michele Thornton Ghee. 

The event will take place on Wednesday, March 26, at 8 a.m. the Westmount Country Club in Woodland Park. This year’s conference theme, “Gratitude, Grace and Growth” serves as a reminder that in difficult times leaders must embrace their resilience, appreciate their progress, and continue to evolve with purpose and strength. 

“We are at a pivotal moment where women’s voices and leadership are needed more than ever,” said YWCA Northern New Jersey CEO Helen Archontou. “Our Women’s Leadership Conference is an opportunity for women to make powerful connections, consider life changes, and embrace healthy mindsets. 

“The thought-provoking discussions, dynamic networking opportunities, and the inspiring keynote will provide our attendees with the necessary tools to live a more intentional and fulfilled life,” Archontou said. 

YWCANNJ will also be distributing 30 scholarships at the conference to women who are supported by various YWCA Northern New Jersey programs.  

The conference’s keynote address will be delivered by Michele Thornton Ghee, chief content officer at Essence Ventures. Ghee is an accomplished media executive who has worked with some of the world’s most influential companies including Ebony, Jet, CNN, BET Networks, and A&E. As the founder and CEO of Expectant Media, she is dedicated to connecting diverse content creators with brands that target diverse audiences. 

Ghee’s career highlights include her leadership in revitalizing Ebony and Jet, as well as creating BETHer, the first network solely dedicated to Black Women. Throughout her career, Ghee has been a trailblazer in advocating for diversity and furthering equity in the media landscape, while driving substantial revenue.  

For more information on YWCANNJ’s Women’s Leadership Conference and panel speakers, as well as other events, programs, and ways to get involved, go here.