DVA
DIVERSE VOICES AMPLIFIED
Our theme for 2024 is DVA, short for “Diverse Voices Amplified.” As young women of color, our opinions and experiences are often shunned, undervalued, or altogether ignored, but when we are heard, we have the power to positively change our communities and beyond. DVA is about learning to harness our own voices, listening to others stories, and ultimately trailblazing a world where empowering and amplifying women of color is the norm. We hope to communicate the power of a unified voice and represent our diverse identities. In a social sphere that can often feel like it’s moving backward, there is nothing more important than building the courage to speak up and speak out.
OUR KEYNOTE
Mary Chung Hayashi is an award-winning author, national healthcare leader, and former California State Assemblymember. With a distinguished career in public service, Mary has spearheaded substantial reforms in mental health services, championed gender equality, and forged powerful, unprecedented partnerships for social causes that previously had no financial or public backing. Recognized as “Legislator of the Year” by the American Red Cross and the California Medical Association, Mary has also been featured on Redbook’s “Mothers and Shakers” list and Ladies’ Home Journal’s “Women to Watch.” As Principal of Public Policy & Advocacy Solutions, she has successfully advised business and policy leaders on some of today’s most complex public policy matters. Mary remains a steadfast proponent of social justice expansion and the rights of underrepresented communities.