Walking into the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce Professional Women’s Forum, I expected to take a few notes, shake a few hands, and maybe leave with a helpful career tip or two. What I didn’t expect was to walk out feeling ambitious—like I had just been handed the ultimate game plan for success! – Paige Deno

Like Paige, I walked into the forum expecting to learn, but I left with so much more. As a project assistant here at SMPR and graduating FAMU PR student, I am continuously learning how to stay present and to be where my feet are. 

As I networked with trailblazing women at the forum, I was reassured that I was exactly where I needed to be after an inspirational fireside chat between SMPR President and Partner Heidi Otway and FAMU Athletic Director Angela Suggs.

As I sat and actively listened to two FAMU alumnae, who happened to be my sorority sisters, I envisioned myself on that stage one day—sharing the knowledge and wisdom obtained from my personal and professional experiences to a room filled with ambitious women. One day, I hope to share my story with a crowd of women who may not have it all figured out. One day, I want to be the person that both Heidi and Angela are to me for someone else. – Germanie Bozeman

From my perspective, Angela isn’t just making waves in the world of sports—she’s shattering the glass ceiling in a traditionally male-dominated field. Hearing how she pushed through obstacles to become the head of FAMU’s athletic program wasn’t just inspiring; it was proof of what’s possible when women refuse to be sidelined. 

These multifaceted Black women serve as top leaders in their respective industries, who never viewed the sky as the limit. In the conversation, they touched on life’s most pivotal moments, success not being linear and how to choose what chooses you. Their stories served as a testament to resilience, ambition, and the power of community.

As a college senior figuring out what’s next, I can’t express how much I needed to hear that message. It was one of those “light bulb” moments where you realize the only limits are the ones you set for yourself.

That’s what makes events like this so special. The chance to be surrounded by women who are carving their own paths, succeeding in their careers and still making the time to mentor and connect with others is a gift I’ll carry with me for a long time. 

Plus, it’s a perfect fit for this year’s International Women’s Day theme: “Accelerate Action.” By supporting one another, sharing knowledge and pushing each other forward, we can build a future where women take the lead in every industry.

On top of that, Florida is a place where women’s opportunities are expanding, especially in business. Organizations like the Tallahassee Chamber continue to pave the way for women to meet, inspire and support one another—fostering a community where we can all thrive together. 

For me, the forum offered invaluable lessons—to remain true to myself in any room, cherish the present, and always challenge the status quo. With the advice shared and questions answered, I left feeling empowered and ready to take on the next pivotal moment in my life: graduation.

Events like this remind us of the power of connection, mentorship, and resilience. To all the women in Florida: Seek out spaces that challenge and inspire you. Surround yourself with ambitious, supportive women, and together, we can accelerate action, break barriers and create the future we deserve. 

Thank you to the women who made me feel seen, heard and acknowledged at the forum; that will never be forgotten. 

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