The Massachusetts Conference for Women is proud to continue our Young Women's Program, which provides junior and senior high school girls the opportunity to attend the Conference and participate in a seminar track designed just for them. The program stems from the belief that young women are often discouraged from pursuing their dreams, or simply not shown the way.

The young women attending the Conference will have the opportunity to gain insight from a wide range of speakers. The future of the Commonwealth lies with its young people and it is incumbent upon us to open doors of possibility to them. Young women need to be encouraged to dream big and to work hard to make their dreams come true.

As you travel the halls of the convention center on December 10th, please remember to take a moment to acknowledge the young women in attendance. You may be sharing your time here today with future teachers, doctors, CEOs or even a president!

Young Women's Program Sessions

Think You Know How to Say NO?! 10:00-11:15
Have you seen a conflict get out of control? Ever had a hard time saying no? Learn the basics of self-defense and how to stand up for yourself in a variety of real life situations. It may surprise you, but self-defense is not about karate kicks or fighting. Women and teens from Girls' LEAP (Lifetime Empowerment & Awareness Program) will teach you the basics of self-defense including how to avoid and de-escalate conflict by using your voice and body positioning, and how to manage emotions in the moment. This is an interactive workshop designed specifically for young women that will leave you feeling safe, strong, and empowered.

Speaker: Girls' LEAP (Lifetime Empowerment & Awareness Program) Self Defense all-female teaching team

What's Your Nutrition I.Q.? 11:30-12:45
Healthy doesn't have to mean boring when it comes to good food and nutrition. But with all the tweets, blogs, ads, and articles about what's best, how can you know for sure? Registered dietitian and nutrition director at Canyon Ranch Spa Lori Reamer gives you the skinny on how to put your health where your mouth is - and reveals the real truth behind common nutritional myths - to help you eat right to look and be your best no matter what's in style.

Speaker: Lori Reamer, Director of Nutrition, Canyon Ranch