Former NBC Today show co-host Hoda Kotb and actress Cynthia Erivo, known for her role in the film adaptation of *Wicked*, were among the many inspiring speakers empowering women on Thursday at the Pennsylvania Conference for Women. The event took place at the Pennsylvania Convention Center and drew a diverse crowd eager to promote, empower, communicate, and amplify the influence of women in the workplace.
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker attended the Center City event and described the conference as “electrifying and quite frankly, contagious.” Given the conference’s success, a second event is planned for March.
Cynthia Erivo, celebrated for her astounding voice and captivating portrayal of the green-glowing wicked witch in *Wicked*, as well as her roles in *The Color Purple* and *Harriet*, shared valuable life lessons with the packed audience. She encouraged women to speak positively about themselves and to cultivate self-confidence.
“I had a friend who was always speaking negatively,” Erivo said. “‘I don’t think that I can do this and I don’t think I’m ready to do this.’ The reverse, ‘I can do this, I am ready to do this,’ sounds much more positive.”
Erivo also shared a glimpse into her own journey, revealing how her mother believed from an early age that she was destined to become either a singer or a doctor.
“She said that I used to hum and sing all of the time,” Erivo recalled. “I was always chatty and talkative, and I guess she thought that I was kind of bright. At age five, I was in a nativity play and I sang a song. At age eleven, people would gather around when I would sing on the schoolyard, and I began to realize that I had talent.”
Her dedication and talent led her to the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, where she honed her craft. Erivo emphasized the importance of vulnerability in her performances:
“What makes you strong is your vulnerability,” she said. She added that she is often drawn to roles where the character has experienced heartbreak or challenges to overcome.
In addition to Erivo’s compelling talk, author Mel Robbins, known for her self-help book and as host of a top-ranked podcast, discussed her book *Five Second Rule*. The book challenges readers to count backward from five before making a decision, encouraging action over hesitation.
“You have everything you need to create a better life,” Robbins told the audience. She issued a motivating challenge: “The problem is, it’s you against you. When you are afraid, fear kills action, but action kills fear.”
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On Thursday evening, September 18, 2025, *The Philadelphia Tribune* hosted its 2025 Most Influential African Americans event. The celebration honored Black Philadelphians making a significant impact throughout the area.
https://www.phillytrib.com/news/local_news/pennsylvania-conference-for-women-brings-inspiring-star-power/article_d91770fb-ed9f-49c5-8f88-bb703de05e05.html
