2025 WIB Conference encourages women to embrace authenticity

In a world where conformity is often rewarded, the 2025 Women in Business (WIB) conference is encouraging women to embrace their truest self and to recognize authenticity as their superpower. 

Presented by ATB Wealth, the Airdrie Regional and Crossfield Chambers of Commerce is preparing to host their upcoming 2025 Women in Business (WIB) conference on May 21 at the Crossfield and District Community Hall, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

This year, the conference's theme is 'Power of Me,' which focuses on empowering women to embrace their authenticity, step into leadership, and build the confidence to pursue their boldest dreams, the Executive Director of Airdrie Regional Chamber of Commerce, Marilyne Aalhus, said. 

The conference is a day-long experience designed specifically for entrepreneurial women who are passionate about growing sustainable and vibrant businesses. 

The conference includes workshops from business experts, networking opportunities, exhibitor tables, and an inspiring keynote by Stacey Foley, who will speak about 'The 3 per cent Club: How to defy the odds and rewrite your story.'

"The inspiration behind WIB stems from a clear need within our community to support entrepreneurial women not just professionally, but personally as well," Aalhus shared.  "Women are often navigating multiple roles, and this conference is designed to help them align their personal values with their business goals." 

WIB conference is a medium through which a space is created where women can feel seen, heard and equipped with real tools to thrive.

"As a female leader, I've experienced firsthand the challenges and triumphs of guiding an organization, while being a mother and wife, and trying to stay true to who I am," Aalhus expressed, adding that "events like he Women in Business Conference are incredibly meaningful to me because they create space for us to grow, connect, and lead in ways that are both bold and real." 

Aalhus believes in the power of women lifting each other up, and that's exactly what this conference is about. Additionally, say states that the ongoing success of the conference over the years is a testament to how deeply it resonates. 

The partnership with the Crossfield Chamber of Commerce reflects Airdrie's commitment to regional collaboration. "By uniting our chambers, we're expanding the conference's reach and impact, bringing together women from diverse backgrounds and industries across the region." 

Moreover, it also symbolizes the shared vision of both Airdrie and Crossfield toward fostering strong, supportive communities where women in business can thrive together. 

"Local insights indicate that the number of women-owned businesses in our region is growing steadily," Aalhus said. "Many of these businesses are in service-based industries, wellness, retail and creative entrepreneurship." 

Aalhus says it is inspiring to see numerous women stepping into leadership roles and creating lasting economic and community impact through their ventures. 

Registration deadline is fast approaching—May 16 at 3 pm. The regular rates to attend the WIB conference for chamber members is $119; for non-members the price is $139. 

For residents looking to register, visit www.airdriechamber.ab.ca/events.