Event schedule & Details
WHEN:
February 17, 2026
11am - 3:30pm
WHERE TO GO:
United Way of Greater Houston
50 Waugh Dr, Houston, TX 77007
WHAT TO EXPECT:
Podium Project is a speaker accelerator and live showcase designed to widen the stage for women and underrepresented leaders through professional production, powerful storytelling, and a community that continues beyond the event.
This live showcase is the culmination of months of preparation—where our keynote speakers and 12 senior women leaders take the stage to share bold ideas and practical insight across industries including corporate leadership, entrepreneurship, wellness, law, construction, HR, real estate, and more.
11-11:30am | Networking + Welcome
Arrive at registration to check in and get comfortable! We will have refreshments for you and vendor tables will be open to explore as you network and wait for the morning session to begin.
11:30-12:45pm | Morning Session
The amazing Haddie Djemal, our keynote speaker, will start our day off, followed by four 5-minute presentations from our Podium Project speakers.
12:45–1:30 PM | Lunch with our Sponsors
Catered lunch included in your ticket will be ready for you. Take the opportunity to network.
1:30–2:30 PM | Afternoon Session
Cheer on the rest of our Podium Project speakers, and leave them feedback and testimonials. Make sure to connect with them on social media. Take notes and follow up with them in their DMs!
2:30–3:00 PM | Closing Keynote
The cherry on top, Dr. Keith D. Dorsey’s keynote. He will close out the day with a focused, practical conversation on board readiness, visibility, and the five forms of capital women must intentionally build to access the rooms where decisions are made.
3:00–3:30 PM | Closing & Community Networking
And that’s a wrap. Vendors will still be open so this is your opportunity to do your final rounds. Take some last pictures, connect with those new people you met, and ask us about the next Podium Project!
Why Attend the Podium Project
The Podium Project is more than an event — it’s a movement designed to elevate powerful voices and expand leadership visibility for women and underrepresented professionals. Where most conferences give you inspiration, Podium Project gives you clarity, connection, and confidence.
Whether you’re a rising leader, established executive, entrepreneur, or professional seeking deeper meaning and belonging, this day is for you.