(Getting Empowered)
San Jacinto Valley Women’s Conference inspires and supports women in community
On Friday, Feb. 27, San Jacinto Valley Women’s Conference (SJVWC) held its 9th annual event at Soboba Resort and Casino.
This year, approximately three-hundred thirty people attended the event whose theme was “live your journey.”
The SJVWC began in 2010 and aspired to have an all-female run conference that would be inspirational, educational and empowering, while ensuring all proceeds go into a scholarship fund.
Nicole Holt, President of SJVWC, says that, “In the last eight years, we’ve been able to give back over $40,000.”
Keynote speaker, Chef Rosie O’Connor 
SJVWC President, Nicole Holt
Holt explains that scholarships are for women who are returning to school, who’ve maybe been a stay-at-home mom for a while and are ready to advance their educational goals.
Guest speakers shared their journeys, one of whom was keynote speaker, Chef Rosie O’Connor – an award-winning chef who has appeared on numerous Food Network television shows. She shared her story of overcoming obstacles to get where she is today, saying, “I started my life again at the age of forty…it’s never too late. I wanted to start enjoying this life, so I surrounded myself with people who are passionate and inspiring.”
An attendee expressed how she felt inspired by the women’s stories, saying, “I love how the stories are so different, but the message is the same-finding your identity, living your purpose. I was super inspired by Erica [London] and her story of turning survival into thriving, and the work she is doing with the youth.”
Guests listen to stories from inspirational women speakers 
SJWC crowd: About three-hundred and fifty attended SJVWC
“I want to be the woman that I needed as a girl,” says Holt. “The only way we’re going to have positive role models out there is if we are.”
As SJVWC continues its mission and provides a source of encouragement, inspiration and empowerment through its annual conference, the non-profit has been gaining support from its sponsors and the community.
For more information on San Jacinto Valley Women’s Conference, visit www.sjvwc.com
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