Women leaders come together at the Lafayette luncheon for empowerment and collaboration.
In Lafayette, Louisiana, women business leaders gathered for a luncheon hosted by One Acadiana, focusing on economic growth and the significance of female leadership in business. The event highlighted collaboration among local economic developers and celebrated achievements, including recognizing Angelica Rivera as Woman of the Year. The luncheon underscored the commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs and the future of female leadership in the region.
In the vibrant city of Lafayette, Louisiana, women business leaders came together for an inspiring luncheon hosted by One Acadiana. The gathering, held at the charming Ruffino’s on The River, focused on the crucial topic of economic growth within Louisiana. It was a golden opportunity for women to unite, share, and reinforce their significant presence in business.
The event showcased the collaborative spirit among local and state economic developers. Key figures from Louisiana Economic Development (LED), including notable leaders, gathered to discuss strategies and efforts to enhance business success in the region. Moderating the discussion was Megan Duhon, director of Economic Development at One Acadiana, who emphasized that economic development is a team effort that thrives on cooperation.
LED has been proactive in addressing the needs of businesses, operating “at the speed of business,” which highlights the urgency and responsiveness required in today’s competitive market. Alongside this, they presented their Five Pillars of Prosperity, a framework that aims to boost economic growth in Louisiana, adopted in 2024 under the leadership of Secretary Susan Bourgeois and Governor Jeff Landry.
Throughout the event, the representation of women in business was a key focus. Duhon expressed her enthusiasm for highlighting the female leadership that is making strides in economic development. This aligns with the recent operational changes implemented by Secretary Bourgeois, which have brought about positive shifts in the mechanisms of business development.
One Acadiana’s president and CEO, Troy Wayman, praised the strength and resilience of women business leaders in the Acadiana region. By fostering diverse perspectives and leadership styles, the community continues to evolve and strengthen its economic foundation.
The luncheon was not just about discussions and strategies; it also celebrated outstanding achievements within the community. One such moment was the recognition of Angelica Rivera, CEO of Colmex Construction LLC, who was honored as the Woman of the Year through Fidelity Bank’s P.O.W.E.R. program. With a rich history spanning 17 years, Rivera has garnered multiple industry awards and has made tremendous strides in creating opportunities for women in the construction field, including establishing a women’s construction training division.
Selected from a competitive group of 18 nominees hailing from various professional sectors like law, education, and marketing, Rivera’s honor displayed the true spirit of empowerment and inspiration. The acknowledgment of her initiatives reflects the ongoing commitment of Fidelity Bank P.O.W.E.R. to uplift and equip women entrepreneurs throughout the Gulf Coast.
The success of the luncheon paves the way for future gatherings, with the next Women in Business Luncheon scheduled for April 10 at Briquette in New Orleans. As events like these continue to unfold, they reinforce the importance of supporting female business owners, offering programs and services tailored to their unique journeys in the business landscape.
Founded back in 1908, Fidelity Bank’s commitment to empowering women business owners remains unwavering, making it a cornerstone of community support for female leadership. The excitement surrounding the luncheon encapsulates a future where women not only occupy leadership roles but also pave the way for generations to come.
In Lafayette, the dedication to uplifting women in business is not just a topic for discussion; it’s a vibrant initiative that thrives on collaboration, recognition, and celebrated achievement. The future looks bright as these dedicated leaders continue to forge ahead in Louisiana’s economic landscape.
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