Having a safe, supportive environment to share challenges and successes is critical to any community. Discussions about experiences and how to create a better future leads to a bond that far exceeds what you may find within typical gatherings. When that community embraces and lifts each other up to achieve something great, that is when the community begins to THRIVE.
THRIVE, the professional women’s group facilitated by the Chamber, has continued to earn its name thanks to the dedicated volunteer leaders and professional women from throughout the Charleston region. Both Chamber members and non-members have welcomed the opportunity to connect and learn from regional leaders on how to address issues like Mental Health & Work Life Integration, Women Empowering Women and Women Driving Industry. Beyond the knowledge shared by event panelists, THRIVE has provided an outlet for meaningful connection among attendees that allows for normalizing experiences that may be unique to women in the workplace. These types of connections have provided elevated levels of empowerment and confidence for those heading back into their careers, knowing they have the ability to facilitate change and the community backing to help them do so.
Grace Hamilton, Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at the Chamber, heads efforts, along with volunteer members of the THRIVE Steering Committee. Grace spoke to what makes this community such a desirable place to be for professionals. “Many of the women who have attended THRIVE events talk about how welcoming and safe of an environment they experienced. They feel like they can be their authentic selves and discuss issues that really matter to them. THRIVE provides a unique space for authentic conversations.” One of the opportunities that have come from connections are the bonds formed over common beliefs. “Its been amazing to see the partnerships that have come from networks formed at events. It’s not uncommon to hear stories about people meeting at THRIVE and developing professional relationships that reach beyond the event. Seeing such a strong group of women rely on one another has been incredible to experience.”
With overwhelming support, it is not uncommon to see a sold-out room of motivated professionals, ready to learn and grow. Currently, THRIVE holds events every other month, with the THRIVE Luncheon taking place on Thursday, August 10 at the Embassy Suites by Hilton, Charleston Harbor, in Mt. Pleasant, SC. During the event, attendees will hear from Jordi Yarborough, VP of Stakeholder and Government Relations Engagement, SC Ports and Laura Ullrich, Senior Regional Economist, Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, on their experiences with “Power Dynamics in the Workplace”.
