Join Us in 2025!

The Women in Leadership (WiL) Expo is now a bi-annual, regional event highlighting women in leadership while inspiring all women, no matter their stage of life and career.

This empowering expo equips women with the knowledge, connections, tools, and inspiration to excel in their careers or wherever they are in life and make a lasting impact. We have many new and exciting ideas on the horizon, which is why we are now holding WiL Expo every other year so that we can bring you more opportunities and connections. We can’t wait to see you in 2025!


2023 Recap

Last year, we focused on the significance of personal branding - from how you present yourself to how you speak to being confident in you. Attendees heard from keynote speakers, Lauren Messiah, a personal & celebrity stylist and business coach from Los Angeles, CA, and inspiring entrepreneur/farm girl/social media personality, Chelsey Wald as well as breakout session speakers; local, women-owned boutiques and vendors; Chamber and other community leaders; and each other.

The speakers covered topics such as personal brand building, effective communication, and leveraging social media for professional growth. Additionally, attendees updated their professional profiles with headshots.

Meet the Speakers

  • LAUREN MESSIAH

    Lauren Messiah is revolutionizing the way people dress through her comprehensive approach to elevating one’s life through style, working from the inside out. With her signature method of combining style with personal development, Lauren bridges personal styling and life coaching to curate a closet and look that supports one’s goals and takes the stress and self-doubt out of looking one’s best. The stylist, educator and digital influencer has coached over 6,000 clients globally through her online courses, leaning on her personal journey of self-discovery through fashion and her years of being one of the most sought-after celebrity stylists.

    Lauren's latest book, Style Therapy: 30 Days to Your Signature Style (Abrams), as a 30-day active approach to building a personal style and shedding emotional baggage. Through her book, she empowers readers to shop like a stylist, find clothes that support goals and build confidence to tackle any situation with the right look and attitude.

    Videos:
    https://youtu.be/lCfOuiJxojA

    https://youtu.be/-agmp83plQg

  • CHELSEY WALD

    Chelsea Wald wears many hats. She's a devoted wife to Wayne and a loving mom to their son, Wren. Chelsea's roots trace back to a dairy farm, but her journey took her to college where she pursued her passion for cosmetology, dedicating fourteen years to the craft before retiring. Now, she thrives as a full-time farm wife, a nurturing mom, a dedicated animal keeper, and an avid beauty enthusiast.

    Chelsea lives by the words of Mother Teresa: "Let no one come to you without leaving happier," and she strives to empower women from all walks of life. She engages with various platforms, maintaining two Instagram accounts—one for all things beauty and one dedicated to farm life. She's active on TikTok and LinkedIn for insightful business discussions, and even though she's still learning the ropes on Pinterest, she's on the lookout for an assistant to help her shine there! (Applications welcome! 🤪)

    In her journey, Chelsea faces challenges like infertility, the quest for organization, and the eternal tug between her love for travel and the warmth of home with her cherished animals. She indulges in simple pleasures, savoring pulled pork, grooving to the latest pop hits, and cherishing those occasional mornings when she can sleep in until 7 A.M.

  • summer wilda

    Summer Wilda is a connector to coaches and a Multipassionate Entrepreneur who cherishes faith, family, and freedom above all else. With nearly 25 years of entrepreneurial experience, my journey began in my teens when I ran my house cleaning and babysitting businesses, inspired by "The Babysitter's Club" books. Over the years, my entrepreneurial spirit led me to become an apprentice in small business coaching and strategy.

    Throughout life's changes, including marriage and starting a family, my business mindset never waned. I took on various roles such as Craft and Art Show organizer, Kindermusik franchise owner, Voice Over Artist, Network Marketer, Affiliate Marketer, Online Attraction Marketing specialist, and Online Business Coach. My true passion for guiding fellow entrepreneurs was ignited as I coached individuals and businesses in their transition to the online world.

    I firmly believe in the power of self-belief and unwavering persistence as the keys to success. That's why I founded The Persistent Entrepreneur, a platform dedicated to offering personalized guidance, clarity, and direction for your entrepreneurial journey. My specialization lies in matching clients with the right coaches, professionals, and resources tailored to their unique needs and goals.

    On top of it all, my husband and I are proud franchise owners of Dirty Dough in Williston, ND, a venture that opened its doors in May 2022.

  • Alissa Renner

    Chief Operating Officer of Spruce Row

    Bio coming soon!

  • Sarah Trustem

    Imagine navigating the complexities of life as a mother, a wife, and a professional, all while facing unimaginable challenges. Sarah's journey is a testament to resilience and triumph over adversity.

    Starting as a Field Representative in the Office of United States Senator Heidi Heitkamp, Sarah's career has been marked by purpose and strength. From Executive Director of the Dickinson Chamber of Commerce to City Commissioner, she demonstrated a dedication to public service at the local level. Her journey continued with the role of Director of Communications & Community Relations for the Dickinson School District, highlighting her adaptability and commitment to effective communication.

    In her talk, Sarah will share profound insights on strength, life balance, and the power of perspective. How does one navigate life's fiercest storms? How do you balance personal challenges and professional responsibilities? Sarah's journey is a powerful reminder that in moments of chaos, our true strength shines through.

    Get ready to be inspired and motivated by Sarah's extraordinary life. Her story is not just about survival; it's about thriving against all odds. Join us at WiL Expo to be moved, motivated, and reminded that the human spirit has the power to endure, persevere, and triumph.

  • Courtney Law

    Courtney Law is a licensed Family Nurse Practitioner and Realtor who is learning to navigate life's challenges with grace and humor.

    In life, she believes that laughter is often the best medicine. Whether in healthcare or real estate, Courtney works to educate, empower, and encourage people on their journeys. She believes that we are all stronger together, and that when we create spaces for compassion and understanding, we thrive.

    In this session, Courtney will share her journey with past failures, successes, and what to do when Imposter Syndrome rears its ugly head. Join as we discuss how to overcome self-doubt, take chances, build a supportive community, and walk away with crafty tools to take home.

Meet the Strong Women. Strong Connections panelists

  • Laiken Aune

    ND Women’s Business Center
    Strong Women. Strong Connections. Moderator

  • Jody Cymbaluk

    Little Scholars + Deja Brew Coffee

  • Angela Skogen

    Cooks on Main

  • Leticia Kirkwood

    Hair Society Institute

  • Bre Staal

    Lilac Lane Children’s Boutique

  • Katie Shannon

    ConnectUs Therapy

All Things Women in Leadership Expo

JOIN US in making a difference!

Our passion lies in supporting our community, and we're excited to contribute to restocking the Family Crisis Shelter with essential donations. Together, let's empower these families and fill their lives with love.

You can participate by contributing donations on both days of the WiL Expo, which takes place on October 26th and 27th.

As a token of our appreciation, attendees who make a donation will receive (1) one extra drink ticket for Thursday night AND (1) one extra entry for a door prize. Let's come together and create a positive impact!

HOTEL accomodations

We aim to ensure you have an exceptional experience! Immersing yourself fully in the expo, without the need to leave, often leads to the most enjoyable moments. For your convenience, we have reserved a number of rooms at The Grand Williston Hotel & Conference Center.

Mention WiL Expo 2023 to get your $89/day rate:
Email Gina Carpenter

Supporting our childcare and preschool providers!

We are putting a portion of your ticket and sponsorship to use in the community, helping those who take care of and educate our young children!

The Western Star Foundation will earmark 12% of the net proceeds from WiL Expo to support the Williston Early Educators Alliance which is organizing FREE, hands-on trainings for childcare workers that are mandatory for licensing.

childcare

Kenzi Brown with Coyote Pups Learning Den has opened up several spots for moms who want to attend the Expo!

Ages 0-17 months: $75/day

Ages 18-35 months: $65/day

Age 3: $55/day

Ages 4/5's: $50/day

Please be sure to reserve your spot as this is a first come, first served basis. Mention the WiL Expo and get $10 OFF!

Email: coyotepupslearningden@gmail.com

Call: (719) 314-6436

Located at: 1905 26th St. W, 5003 2nd St. W

BE IN THE SPOTLIGHT WITH US!

We're on the lookout for local boutiques specializing in women's apparel, shoes, accessories, and women-centric products to showcase their offerings at WiL Expo 2023.

Anticipate an audience of 150+ women from all across North Dakota. This is your chance to shine and connect with a diverse and engaged crowd!

WHAT TO DO IN WILLISTON

Welcome to Williston! Here you can experience the best of the west in arts, culture, dining, entertainment, outdoors and more. Whether it’s a relaxing evening exploring local shops and restaurants, an exciting adventure camping and hiking in one of our local or state parks, or anything in between – you’ll see for yourself why we love Williams County, and why you will too.

thank you to our sponsors

pREMIERE SPONSOR


GOLD SPONSOR


SILVER SPONSOR


Bronze SPONSOR

breakfast SPONSOR


COCKTAIL SPONSOR

 Want to volunteer at the event?

We have different shifts available to fit different schedules including morning, afternoon or evening, depending on the day.
Let us know how you would like to participate!