Coming Events
LeadHERship Award
We’re excited to announce that nominations are officially open for the 2026 LeadHERship Award — our annual recognition of women who embody vision, inspiration, and preparation in leadership.
Each year, the Forward Women’s Leadership Forum honors a woman who leads with purpose, uplifts others, and drives positive change in her community. This award celebrates the power of women who lead boldly, serve compassionately, and inspire others to rise.
Do you know a woman whose leadership deserves the spotlight?
Nominate her today and help us honor those who make an impact where it matters most.
Submit your nomination here: LeadHERship Award Nomination Form
Nominations close January 1, 2026.
Let’s celebrate the lucky woman who lead us forward in our community at the Forum on March 6th!
Art of the Pitch
"Master the Art of the Pitch: Two Power-Packed Classes to Perfect Your Business Story and Win Over Any Audience!" Class 1 of 2
Learn how to confidently present your business idea with clarity and impact in our two-part class series on pitching. These sessions will cover the key elements of a winning pitch, from crafting a compelling story to delivering it with confidence and persuasion. Whether you’re preparing for investors, customers, or competitions, you’ll walk away with practical strategies to capture attention and inspire action.
Purse Pitch Competition
ARE YOU READY?
The Purse Pitch Competition is back on February 6, 2026 at a location to be announced! Mark your calendars and get ready to bring your best pitch and big ideas. Details and and application information are coming soon - stay tuned!
2026 FWLF Pre-Conference Networking Event
Join us online for an amazing chance to connect, share ideas, and grow your network with passionate Allies, inspiring Leaders, and bold Changemakers before the big event on March 6th, "If Not Now, When?". Whether you're looking to collaborate or just vibe with like-minded folks, this is the place to be. Let's move Forward Together and make some magic happen!
8th Annual Forward Women’s Leadership Forum
"Mark your calendars! The 8th Annual Forward Women’s Leadership Forum is back on Friday, March 6, 2026 – now at the beautiful DoubleTree Hotel, Columbia. Join powerful women leaders, trailblazers, and changemakers for a day of inspiration, strategy, and connection. This is your moment to grow, lead, and shine. Are you ready? If not now, WHEN?"
Forward Women’s Leadership Circle
The Forward Women’s Leadership Circle is where confidence meets purpose. We empower women to overcome barriers, discover their strengths, and take bold steps toward business and career success. The Forward Women’s Circle is part of a growing movement of women who refuse to wait for change. They create it.
The Forward Women’s Circle is more than a program — it’s an intentional space where a select group of 10 women will come together to:
Gain clarity on their business or career path
Be held accountable for the goals they set
Collaborate and learn from one another’s talents and experiences
Commit to personal and professional growth over 6 months
Our purpose is to create a circle of support, strategy, and community where women Act, Analyze, and Adjust (AAA) to move forward with intention.
While we will coach and guide, FWC is a space for action and ownership — each woman will be responsible for implementing her own goals. To learn more, contact the Forward Women’s Leadership Forum at hello@forwardwlf.org
Mindfulness and Meditation
Date: Saturday, September 13, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: Howard County Central Library
📍 10375 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia, MD 21044
Whether you’re new to meditation or returning to your practice, this experience is a chance to:
🌿 Discover inner peace
🌿 Learn a method of relaxation that you can use anytime
🌿 Ground your energy through breath, movement, and mindfulness
🌿 Walk away feeling renewed and reconnected
💛 Suggested Donation: $20
This event is free to attend, but we invite you to make a suggested donation of $20.
Your contribution directly supports the Forward Women’s Leadership Forum and Camp Learn and Lead - helping us expand programs and supplies that empower women through business, wellness, leadership, and cooking camp.
🎟️ How to Prepare
Bring a yoga mat, towel or blanket, a bottle of water, and your whole self.
It’s also a good idea to bring a sweater or sweatshirt if the room is chilly. And of course, get your whole self!