Coming Events
Nominations are Open for the 2027 LeadHERship Award
LeadHERship Award Description: The LeadHERship Award is an esteemed recognition from the Forward Women's Leadership Forum, honoring extraordinary women who exemplify leadership, innovation, and community impact. This award celebrates women who have not only excelled in their professional fields but have also demonstrated a profound commitment to uplifting others, inspiring change, and paving the way for future generations of female leaders.
Congratulations to our 2026 Winner!
2027 Purse Pitch Registration is Now Open
The Purse Pitch $1000 Competition is back on February 6, 2027. Mark your calendars and get ready to bring your best pitch and big ideas. Location to be announced shortly.Not a requirement: Information session on January 16, 2027 at 11:00 am
🥇 1st Place ($1,000)
🥈 2nd Place ($500)
🥉 3rd Place ($250)
Congratulations to our 2026 Winners!
🥇Free Money Meister
🥈Folake
“The experience was amazing, and helpful to her confidence and business readiness. She appreciated your closing comments/guidance, and mine (New Start Program). … if the program had ended with JUST that experience, it would have been worth it.
🥉 Resilient Workforce Solutions
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?"
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!
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!
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!
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!
9th Annual
Forward Women’s Leadership Forum
Event Details
Date: Friday, March 5th
Time: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Core Topics: Menopause, investing, business growth, and career advancement.
Opportunities: Tickets, sponsorships, and vendor applications are open.
MORE DETAILS TO COME