Power, Purpose, and Connection: Redefining Women’s Networking

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It’s not just a networking event—it’s a movement. On May 10, the second day of ELYSIAN’s 10-Year Anniversary Celebration will bring together some of the most influential and inspiring women from around the world for a once-in-a-decade experience where authenticity, vision, and purpose take center stage.

Unlike typical networking events, this event is designed to spark real conversations and ignite meaningful connections between women who are reshaping the world. ELYSIAN Circle members, Inspiring Women, national and local business owners, legislators, journalists, creatives, and changemakers will come together in Spartanburg for a day filled with soul-stirring dialogue, celebration, and inspiration. This exclusive gathering includes delegates from the Bipartisan National Foundation for Women Legislators and World Changers from the Institute for Advanced Studies and Cooperation, making it a rare fusion of regional and global thought leadership.

Keynote speaker Dawn Tripp—national bestselling author of Jackie and Georgia—will be among the featured voices of the day. Known for her profound exploration of women’s ambitions, vulnerabilities, and triumphs, Tripp embodies the spirit of ELYSIAN. Her keynote will reflect on the inner lives of women and how their stories shape and reflect the larger world, resonating deeply with a community of women who are both inspiring and aspiring.

The cornerstone of the event, What Drives Success? An Intimate Conversation with Trailblazers, will offer raw, unscripted moments with leaders across sectors. These panelists—including elected officials, journalists, creatives, entrepreneurs, philanthropists, and World Changers—will share the tools, struggles, and revelations that defined their journeys. Moderated discussions and audience questions will guide these deeply human conversations, making space for vulnerability, wisdom, and practical insight.

In a powerful tribute, the afternoon’s award ceremony will honor women who have reshaped industries and communities. It begins with posthumous awards recognizing barrier-breaking women from history, moderated by Fox Carolina’s Hayley Spitler. This is followed by two award segments celebrating trailblazers in South Carolina and beyond, with WSPA’s Amy Wood moderating the national and global presentations.

Throughout the day, guests can also experience the luxurious “She Shed,” a sanctuary of storytelling where women leaders will be filmed answering five key questions about their personal path to success, followed by candid “day in the life” stories that humanize their achievements.

Breakout sessions under the ELYSIAN Curates banner will offer dynamic deep dives into seven power sectors—Business, Creative, Global Affairs, Media, Political, Professional, STEM, and Philanthropy. Each session will serve as a masterclass in leadership, featuring powerhouse women panelists who are transforming their fields.

Whether you’re a guest in the room or following from afar, Day 2 of the ELYSIAN celebration is more than an event. It’s a space where connection becomes transformation—and women lead the way. Interested in becoming a part of ELYSIAN Circle? Learn more here.