Yall, I had a time in New Orleans this summer!! Talk about boss moves- That’s exactly how it felt as soon as I landed in the Big Easy on July 1st. Felt like I was there standing on business ready for the ultimate link-up with not only the women I’ve been working alongside over the past 3 years, but also the entire Women of Project Management community! Excited is an understatement.
However, New Orleans is such a unique city, unique because there’s nowhere else like it in the US, it smells different, the infrastructure is archaic, the food is amazing, the locals have the cutest super sassy accent, and the overall feel of the city is just different. It’s still not my favorite city to visit but I’ll tell you one thing, if it’s going to be the home of the Women of Project Management conference, I will absolutely be in the building. Every. Time.
Celebrating Global Sisterhood: Meeting Inspiring Women from Around the World
If you’re a Black professional woman who struggles with imposter syndrome, confidence, or you just want to be a part of a dope professional network of women, this is where you need to be. The women who attended this conference came from all over the world. Including Zemeka, my new South African friend/sister who won the WOPM Woman of the year award. I so appreciated her presence at the conference. She’s a project manager in South Africa and just like the rest of us, looking to connect with like-minded women all working towards leveling up in our careers.
My introverted sis and Founder of Women of Project Management, Asya Watkins blows my mind every year in making this event better and more impactful than the previous year. She’s my friend and has been a solid mentor for me in my own career journey.
Boss Moves in The Big Easy: My Experience at the Ultimate Professional Link-Up
The general admission girlies received $50 gift cards and a list of the best NOLA cuisine to explore during their lunch. Meanwhile, the VIP girlies sat for an intimate fireside chat lunch with the WGU Rep, Mistzu and WOPM Founder, Asya and enjoyed authentic New Orleans cuisine catered by the Le Meridien hotel.
After that, it was go-time. We changed our clothes, gathered our teams and ran to the streets of New Orleans for “Project Parasol”. This was a project we all participated in where each group had to identify a Project Manager, Logistics Coordinator, Clue Master, Documentarian and a few other roles to successfully complete the project.
We all ended our projects at a common location and walked with a second line band back to the host hotel! The attendees truly enjoyed and appreciated the experience.
Unique Charm of New Orleans: A Perfect Backdrop for Boss Moves
Later that night I enjoyed a big bowl of gumbo and a long island ice tea. I was fresh off of 75-Hard and ready to eat some good food.
Day two of the conference did not disappoint. We started with 2 panel discussions that had everyone in tears!! There’s something about being in a room with your sisters who just get you… who understand your trials and are there ready to pick you up and guide you! The feeling is unmatched. The quote below basically sums it up. I mean… you would have had to be there to know exactly what I mean.
Empowerment and Connections: The Heart of the WOPM Conference
I was gathered during the resume workshop with Edi and Ordonna! To know them is to love them. Edi with over 20 years of HR and recruiting experience and Ordonna as a Program Manager & Hiring Manager with several years experience, together they were able to offer on the spot resume and interviewing techniques. Huge shout out to the brave souls who volunteered as tribute to be evaluated in front of everyone. I took SEVERAL notes and feel more prepared than ever when the time comes to move into my next role.
And of course, we ended things with the awards ceremony and yall…. Look at my cast member award! *real tears* Receiving this award for my participation in the Women of Project Management documentary “Beyond the Glass Ceiling” was the highlight for me. The documentary was an official Essence Film Festival finalist selection and although it didn’t receive the trophy, being considered alongside such an amazing group of creators was truly a win!
