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In 2023, Sophia Kanavos and her mother organized the inaugural Women’s Power Series conference, targeting a gap in the landscape of business events.
“We attend numerous conferences in business, many held in prominent locations like Las Vegas and Orlando,” explains the 28-year-old, who is involved in acquisitions and development for Flag Luxury Group, her family’s real estate company. “These events often come with hefty price tags, sometimes exceeding $2,500 for just two days, predominantly featuring male speakers and attendees.”
With this observation in mind, they aimed to create a different experience: “We envisioned a half-day conference focused on women in business, organized by women, for women,” she adds. Their goal was to make the event accessible, offering various pricing options so that women of varying financial backgrounds could participate, with all proceeds benefiting the nonprofit Women of Tomorrow. To make their vision a reality, Kanavos and her mother tapped into their business network to secure speakers and chose a venue owned by their family business, founded by her mother.
The Women’s Power Series has successfully hosted six events, encompassing both half-day conferences and standalone panels. According to Kanavos, they have featured 61 speakers and attracted over 1,350 attendees, with her responsibilities including the curation of panel topics, speaker selection, sponsorship acquisition, and fundraising.
Through these events, Kanavos has gained invaluable insights from successful women sharing their career journeys. The most significant takeaway has been the importance of staying true to oneself.
The Importance of Authenticity
At one of the series’ events in 2024, Lydia Fenet, an auctioneer, author, and speaker, emphasized the theme of authenticity. “She delved into how being authentic can foster trust and credibility,” notes Kanavos. “Her advice struck a chord with me—being your true self rather than conforming to the expectations of others.”
This principle is integral to the ethos of their conferences. “Attendees should aim to engage, learn, and connect, not merely to network superficially,” Kanavos advises. “The focus should be on building genuine relationships and following up with meaningful interactions.”
Such practices reflect the value of authenticity, which Kanavos connects to her personal experiences.
Embracing Individual Strengths
The concept of authenticity also has personal implications for Kanavos. Working within a family business, she often feels pressured to mirror her parents’ approaches precisely. However, she recognizes that her unique strengths and individual personality offer distinct advantages.
“I have to remind myself that my ability to easily connect with others is a strength,” she shares. “Additionally, I must be willing to ask for help in areas where I may not feel as confident. It’s crucial to seek support and build a team that can complement my skills and address any gaps.”
“This lesson is one I carry with me every day,” she concludes, underscoring the significance of authenticity and collaboration in both her personal and professional life.
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