The U.S. Naval Institute in Annapolis, Maryland, stands at the traditional heart of U.S. defense and national security and is widely associated with a conservative institutional culture. On June 28, the Jack C. Taylor Conference Center, located at the heart of the institute, was filled with a spirit of solidarity—gentle yet powerful. It was here that the International WeLoveU Foundation held its Women’s Leadership Forum.

The event built on the inspiration and momentum of the forum held in Manhattan, New York, on March 18 in celebration of Women’s History Month. WeLoveU took the conversation a step further so that all women and girls can develop their abilities and envision fulfilling futures without being marginalized by social prejudice or limitations. The forum reflected WeLoveU’s commitment to building an inclusive society by creating opportunities for women to share their experiences and knowledge across diverse fields and establish strong networks of cooperation. WeLoveU believes that, like a mother’s heart, women’s inclusive strength can bring warmth to the world and help lead humanity toward sustainable peace.

Empathy and Consideration: A New Paradigm for Changing the World across Generations

The main program opened with a keynote address by Natalie Laing, Director of Capabilities at the National Security Agency (NSA). Drawing on decades of experience, Laing identified three core elements of leadership: “Fundamentals,” “Culture,” and “Resilience.” She emphasized that the fundamentals of leadership lie not in one’s position, but in humility and the ability to listen, adding that open communication is essential to building a positive workplace culture. She also explained that resilience can be strengthened through self-awareness, underscoring the importance of remaining composed and being willing to acknowledge one’s shortcomings.

The panel discussion that followed featured insightful perspectives from women leaders working to strengthen social safety nets across the fields of national security, cybersecurity, and human rights.

Key Messages

Natalie Laing (Director of Capabilities and Chief Information Officer, National Security Agency) “The foundation of trust is following through on your commitments. When faced with resistance, you must learn to distinguish between what can and cannot be done and test your conclusions in multiple ways.”

Sheryll Manoj (President & CEO, AttainX Inc.) “Courage is not about waiting for fear to disappear. It is about moving forward and doing what needs to be done despite the fear. If something is the right and wise thing to do, you must be willing to take the risk.”

Yolanda Gore (Garrison Commander, Fort Meade) “It is important to discover and embrace your authentic self rather than becoming who others want you to be. We must also become leaders who pave the way for the women who come after us.”

Drawing on real-life experiences from their own professional fields, the panelists spoke about defining moments in their lives, challenges in their careers, and the mentors who had guided them, while encouraging and supporting the next generation of leaders.

“People from different industries shared their experiences with one another. There was a rich exchange of knowledge and wisdom. Learning and growing through one another’s stories is extremely important.”

Sheryll Manoj, President & CEO, AttainX Inc.

“I spoke with many people at the event, and many of them were thinking deeply about their career paths and what direction they should take. I believe today’s forum gave them inspiration as they considered those questions.”

Yolanda Gore, Garrison Commander, Fort Meade (Colonel)

The Fireside Chat session that followed took place in a relaxed and informal atmosphere, offering a glimpse into the possibilities of a future shaped by emerging young leaders. Sophie Phillips, who is helping lead a new generation in politics following her reelection to the Delaware House of Representatives, and Nina Meyers, CEO of The Meyers Group Capital and a 2024 Forbes 30 Under 30¹ honoree in the Finance category, joined the moderator on stage.

1. Each year, Forbes recognizes young people who have achieved outstanding accomplishments at an early age across 10 categories ↩︎

Sophie Phillips, who entered politics to advance environmental justice, said that rather than passively waiting for opportunities, people should believe in themselves and take the initiative in pursuing their goals. She also emphasized the importance of being willing to learn from everyone they meet. Nina Meyers likewise highlighted the power of authenticity—fully embracing and expressing one’s identity and values. She advised participants to trust and confidently own all of their experiences in order to open themselves to future opportunities.

“We women are incredibly dynamic, fun, and beautiful. Events like this, where women meet face-to-face, talk with one another, build networks, and encourage one another, amplify women’s potential.”

Nina Meyers, CEO, The Meyers Group Capital

“I believe young people can seize many opportunities if they overcome their fears, speak up, and listen to the experiences of others.”

Sophie Phillips, State Representative, Delaware House of Representatives

The accompanying activities also drew enthusiastic interest from attendees. Participants wrote their thoughts on sticky notes and placed them on a board that read, “This year, I will be a leader who ______.” Through this activity, they made personal commitments to becoming better leaders. They also viewed panels introducing WeLoveU’s activities and expressed support for the organization’s various programs that promote connection and engagement with communities and neighbors.

By sharing the experiences and insights of women leaders from diverse fields, the forum provided an opportunity to further broaden public awareness of women’s influence and encourage the development of the next generation of women leaders. Above all, its significance lay in expanding practical dialogue on fostering a culture of gender equality and building a more inclusive society.

Many women and girls around the world still live in silence because of social prejudice or limitations imposed by their circumstances. WeLoveU will continue working to help them move forward in life with greater confidence and initiative. We hope that the bonds of solidarity among women, rooted in a mother’s love, will become an enduring source of strength that can never be broken.