SANTA ANA : Latinas to Attend Leadership Session

The Mexican-American Women’s National Assn. will hold its second annual conference this weekend to help develop the leadership skills of Latinas in Orange County.

The conference will be the first in the county to feature workshops and seminars aimed at both English- and Spanish-speaking women, spokeswoman Lisa Penaloza said.

Penaloza said the conference will focus on education, non-traditional business careers, self-esteem and leadership roles in the community. Scheduled speakers include County Supervisor Gaddi H. Vasquez and Mission Viejo City Councilwoman Victoria C. Jaffe.

“The conference provides an opportunity for women to develop their leadership capabilities in an environment that is culturally supportive to their needs,” Penaloza said.

The association is a nonprofit organization committed to the social, economic and educational advancement of Latinas. The county chapter was formed in 1982 to focus primarily on leadership development, Penaloza said, adding that economic opportunities for Latinos “are essential to the economic and social vitality of the Orange County community.”

The conference will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. today at the Southwest Senior Center, 2201 W. McFadden St. Registration is $35 for adults, $20 for students.

For information, call (714) 647-7581.