Kansas City, Kansas, women’s leadership panel focuses on building future leaders

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (KCTV) – Kansas City, Kansas, Mayor Christal Watson and local leaders gathered at Nebraska Furniture Mart Saturday for a women’s leadership panel.

The event brought together women leading in different lanes. The panel featured Watson, CEO and creative entrepreneur Jess Rogers, DJ Dawna, Katie Wedekind and homebuilder Fran Sutton.

Organizers said they wanted the truth about the work behind the wins.

“It’s something we are very passionate about. Being a female leader myself, being a mother of a daughter it’s very important that we help inspiring and lead the way for other women,” said Nastasia Williams, store director at Nebraska Furniture Mart and event organizer.

The panel focused on what comes next for women’s leadership. Watson said meeting people where they are is key to success.

For women juggling work, family and bills, the takeaway was permission to ask for help, to take up space and to learn as you go.

“You can lead with grace and love and still be the power in the room and be the power at the table,” Rogers said.

Ticket proceeds benefit Win for KC, an organization empowering girls and women through sports.

Watson was also recognized at the event, receiving the “Lift Her Up Award” for her work in the community.