What does the “crown” really mean? Mabel calls it Miss-America energy: you win today, you work tomorrow—amplifying WOCAN everywhere, mentoring, and making space for the next winner. Stephanie’s take is pure purpose: the honor is fuel to keep building what she wished she had earlier in her career.
The moments we loved
Heels vs. sneakers: Stay ready. Recognition can hit mid-event—leadership looks like rolling with it.
From “only one” to a row: WOCAN turns isolation into belonging, sponsorship, and safe rooms to grow skills.
Light-bulb analogy: Don’t dim to fit. When one shines, all shine brighter.
WOCAN’s growth engine
Outreach + bring-a-friend: Make access personal (yes, share the number).
Scholarships: Send women who wouldn’t be sent.
Leadership Academy: Practical reps, real mentors, faster career lift.
Pipeline work: High-school exposure beyond “sales or service.”
For leaders & dealers: put this to work
Sponsor, don’t just applaud. Tie recognition to stretch projects, budget, and visibility.
Measure what matters: Track promotions, pay equity, and retention for women of color.
Build the bench: Fund conference scholarships; pair attendees with post-event mentors.
Create safe rooms: Peer cohorts where “passionate” isn’t code—it's welcomed as standards + care.
Representation isn’t a panel—it’s a performance system. The more intentional the support, the faster the careers move and the stronger your store (and industry) becomes.
🎧 Hear the full conversation with Mabel and Stephanie on the NAMAD Sessions by MIA —stories, tactics, and the playbook for turning recognition into responsibility.
