Women Veterans Gather for Empowerment with Hannah Storm at PVA Event
In a remarkable gathering, Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) hosted its annual Women Veterans Empowerment Retreat in Minneapolis, Minnesota, bringing together more than 40 fierce women veterans from across the nation. This empowering three-day event was illuminated by the presence of celebrated sports anchor Hannah Storm, alongside makeup giant Lancôme, which generously provided professional makeovers to participants.
The retreat went beyond mere relaxation; it was about fostering resilience and providing the necessary tools for women veterans to regain their confidence in various spheres of life. Co-founder of the retreat and U.S. Air Force veteran, Tammy Jones, emphasized the importance of this event, stating, "It's about equipping women veterans with the tools and resources to strengthen their confidence, while cultivating a supportive community of women leaders who motivate and uplift one another."
One of the standout moments was a virtual panel discussion led by Hannah Storm on the theme of "Leading with Confidence in Male-Dominated Spaces." As a pioneer in sports broadcasting, Storm delved into her journey of finding her voice and defined her advocacy for fellow women striving to assert themselves in competitive environments. "Leadership, especially in spaces where you're underrepresented, takes confidence and community. Events like this remind us all of how powerful it can be when women support one another," she stated, leaving an indelible impression on attendees.
Apart from engaging discussions, participants took part in a range of interactive workshops and leadership sessions specifically tailored to address the unique challenges faced by women veterans dealing with spinal cord injuries or diseases such as MS and ALS. These enriching experiences were designed not just to offer support but to empower women, helping them navigate their obstacles with a renewed sense of purpose and strength.
A highlight of the retreat was the opportunity for participants to receive a makeover and professional headshots, courtesy of the partnership with Lancôme. This collaboration is part of a broader initiative by Lancôme to support the beauty needs of women veterans and advocate for adaptive sports opportunities. Ramzy Burns, General Manager at Lancôme USA, articulated the company's commitment, saying, "Through our partnership with PVA, we're proud to support women veterans by helping them feel beautiful inside and out. This event is life-altering, featuring women who embody courage, strength, and resilience, which enables them to shine as the amazing leaders they are."
The event was made possible through the contributions of several generous sponsors, including the First Nation Group Foundation, Humana Military, and TriWest Healthcare Alliance, showcasing a united front in support of women veterans.
To learn more about this year's Women Veterans Empowerment Retreat, the challenges women veterans face, and how PVA is amplifying their voices, visit PVA.org/WomenVeterans. The Paralyzed Veterans of America, established as a vital service organization for veterans with spinal injuries, remains dedicated to ensuring access to essential benefits and resources, making strides for the betterment of lives touched by disabilities. With over 70 offices and 33 chapters across the U.S., PVA continues its mission to advocate for veterans every day, proving that together, they can overcome any barrier.