Director of Economic Opportunity, AmplifyGR Connector Danielle Williams has built networks and friendships all over the world, always led by the mantra of staying true to who you are and never conforming. Backed by many years of experience in corporate communication,...

Founder, SWAN (Strong Women Arise Network); Client Executive, Hylant Connector You may not know it by meeting her, but Angela Schalow is an introvert. As an insurance agent, she knew networking was crucial. Yet, she often felt drained after meeting strangers at...

Director of Talent & Leadership Programs, Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce Connector Monica Mendez firmly believes that magic happens when we find common purpose with those outside of our usual circles. Born and raised in Mexico, Mendez’s journey has been a...

Project Coordinator, Social Innovation, Steelcase Emerging Leader A West Michigan native, Ashley Fermina Soto is a strong leader grounded in her commitment to justice. Raised by a single mother, Soto is a first-generation college graduate who served as president of...

Strategic Communications Manager, Grand Rapids Community Foundation Emerging Leader Heather Gill Fox is a book lover, storyteller, wife, mother, woman of faith and dedicated community member who uses her skills for connection and communication to challenge systemic...

Marketing and Communications Manager, Gerald R. Ford International Airport Emerging Leader Haley Abbas is a dynamic marketing and communications professional who recognizes the influence women mentors and advocates have had on her career and how they’ve inspired her...

Founder & Co-Owner, Cellar Door Preserves Entrepreneur What started as a canning hobby and way to eat as much local food as possible, became a business for Zenobia Taylor-Weiss in 2016. After attending college in Grand Rapids, she became convinced the world’s best...

Founder, Your Legacy Brand Entrepreneur Tiffany Neuman is a visionary branding strategist who helps highly-motivated women business owners and leaders up-level their brand. After 15 years in the corporate world, working with brands like FedEx, Adidas, Stoli Vodka and...

Owner & CEO, El Granjero Mexican Grill Entrepreneur Originally from Mexico City, Mercedes Lopez-Duran grew up in a humble home, raised by her grandmother and siblings. She left school to get married at an early age and started a family. New to the restaurant...

Chief Financial Officer, Hope Network Mentor With a deep appreciation for the support she received as an immigrant to the U.S., Heather Zak has dedicated over two decades to giving back to the West Michigan community through nonprofit leadership, volunteering and...