Create Yours: A Women’s Empowerment Brunch

Is there a better way to spend a rainy, spring Saturday morning than at a women’s empowerment brunch at the Dixon Gallery and Gardens surrounded by their glorious tulips?  Because this was the perfect vibe for the Create Yours: Annual Women’s Empowerment Brunch—and Memphis women showed up.

On Saturday, March 29, the Dixon Gallery and Gardens was full of inspiration, spring dresses, waffles, and a whole lot of good conversation as Choose901 Alumni and local professionals came together to connect and celebrate being a woman in Memphis.

What Is “Create Yours”?

It’s more than just brunch (though the food was amazing). It’s about carving your own path, owning your future, and joining with other women doing the same.

It’s a great event. They have a lot of business professionals, a lot of networking opportunities. And you meet old friends—it’s just a really good time.
— Jordan Harding, Class of 2018, The Soulsville Charter School Alum

This event, hosted by the Choose901 Alumni team, was designed to spotlight and support women during Women’s History Month. This brunch is a reminder that we see each other, we celebrate each other, and we’re not doing this alone.

Why Events Like This Matter for Women

Every woman’s journey looks a little different—but one thing’s for sure: it helps to have a community that understands each other. Whether you're figuring out your next move, building your dream career, or just looking for a moment to be poured into, spaces like this make a difference.

From mentorship to networking, from meaningful conversations to unexpected opportunities—this event is all about connection and encouragement.

We’ve got vendors in the room, some of our alumni, and local professionals all here to mix, mingle, and empower each other. We’re having a great panel and diving into conversations every woman can relate to—as they grow, personally and professionally.
— Brie Smith, Choose901 Alumni Talent Coordinator

The Impact of this Year’s Event

This year’s panel featured an incredible lineup of women—from media trailblazers and tech founders to nonprofit leaders and community advocates. Panelists included KJ Wright (NBA Reporter & Host), Angela Trillo ( Bank of America AVP Corporate Banking and Investment Relationship Manager for Tennessee, Delaware and Maryland ; Co-founder & Chair of Amigo Community Center), Tecia Marshall (Executive Tech Services Leader for ALSAC/#StJude ; Chapter Technology Lead for Black Girls Code), Stacey Greenberg (Editor in Chief, Edible Memphis), Cici Ebersole (Chief Talent Officer at Ducks Unlimited), and Kontji Anthony (Hostess of Live at 9 on WREG CBS Memphis ; CEO of Youdle)—each bringing their own unique journey and insight to the table. They shared lessons in leadership, career development, and how to keep showing up for yourself and your community.

And that’s what it’s all about. Creating space for women to feel seen, heard, supported—and plugged into the power of this city.

(Left to right) Tecia Marshall , Cici Ebersole , Kontji Anthony, Angela Trillo, Stacey Greenberg

How You Can Get Involved

Whether you’re an alum, a mentor, a professional, or just someone who cares about Memphis youth—there’s a role for you.

✨ Want to connect your company with our alumni?
✨ Have internships or jobs that could benefit them?
✨ Want to sponsor or host an event?

Reach out to Jayce, our Alumni Talent Coordinator, at jayce@cityleadership.org. Let’s build this thing together.

Because When Memphis Women Rise, We All Do

Want more empowering stories like this? Be sure to sign up for the Give901 Newsletter by entering your email address at the bottom of the page!

Previous
Previous

let the adventure begin: summer camps with st. george’s Independent School

Next
Next

send future choose901 alumni on an educational outdoor trip