Soroptimist Club Dream It, Be It Conference

The latest episode of the Hanford Insider shines a spotlight on an important community event, the "Dream It, Be It" conference, which is organized by the Soroptimist International of Hanford. This initiative aims to empower young women aged 14 to 18 by providing mentorship, workshops, and the resources necessary to help them overcome barriers and pursue their dream careers. The episode features Marlene Tapia, a key figure in organizing this impactful event, discussing the background and objectives of the conference, as well as the various activities planned.

Marlene Tapia’s journey with the Soroptimist Club began when she discovered the conference through her daughter. Intrigued by the mission of the Soroptimist International, which focuses on improving the lives of women and girls, Marlene joined the club and quickly became an advocate for its programs, especially "Dream It, Be It." The conference, held on February 15th, offers a range of activities including mentorship sessions, workshops, and interactive icebreaker activities designed to foster community and comfort among participants. The icebreaker, in particular, serves as a catalyst for the girls to engage with one another, alleviating any initial shyness and encouraging open communication.

At this year's "Dream It, Be It" conference, participants can expect to learn from inspiring speakers, including a successful alumna from last year’s event who is now thriving at Fresno State. This showcases the tangible impact such conferences can have on young women's lives, as they see someone who was once in their shoes now pursuing higher education and career opportunities. Workshops will also include discussions on body positivity led by local business owner Amy Gomez, yoga sessions focused on stress management, and advice on building positive relationships. These activities not only equip the young women with practical skills and knowledge but also emphasize the importance of self-care and mental well-being.

Marlene highlights the significance of representation in mentoring, sharing her own story of overcoming challenges as a teenage mom and immigrant. This drives her passion for ensuring that young girls can see role models who look like them and share similar backgrounds, thus inspiring them to pursue their goals. One poignant moment from last year’s conference involved a young girl expressing joy and motivation after meeting a professional who shared her cultural background, reinforcing the idea that connections formed during such events can have lasting effects.

The importance of mentoring cannot be overstated. Young girls often face self-doubt and uncertainty regarding their future careers. By providing a platform for young women to connect with successful mentors who can guide them through their professional journeys, "Dream It, Be It" aims to instill confidence and belief in these young ladies. Marlene strongly advocates for mentorship as a vital resource, emphasizing that the barriers young women face can often be overcome through guidance and support.

Looking ahead, Marlene shares that the conference will also incorporate fun elements like raffle prizes with significant value, such as a 50-inch television and numerous gift cards, making participation even more rewarding. The event aims to create an engaging and inclusive atmosphere where young girls can feel valued and seen, prompting them to engage and share their dreams openly.

Listeners of the Hanford Insider are encouraged to support this initiative not only by attending the conference but also by volunteering or donating to the cause. This community-driven event is set to create a ripple effect of positive change, impacting the lives of young girls today and shaping the leaders of tomorrow.