Inspirational Women

The fifth annual Inspirational Women Forum & Leadership Awards celebrated the women redefining leadership across Los Angeles. This exclusive 2025 event brought together L.A.’s top executives, entrepreneurs, and change-makers for a powerful afternoon and evening of connection, featuring thought-provoking panels and an awards ceremony honoring corporate and nonprofit excellence.

The following honorees, finalists, and nominees were the reason we gathered. Over the last 24 months, they have exemplified true leadership, demonstrating resilience, growth, and wisdom. We congratulate each and every one of them for the impact they’ve made and the inspiration they provide to our entire business community.

2025 DISCUSSION PANELS

Women Redefining Tech & Space

From launching satellites to engineering the next wave of AI-driven innovation, women are making critical contributions to industries historically dominated by men. Yet, systemic barriers – ranging from representation gaps to workplace bias – still persist. This discussion brought together trailblazing women leaders and the companies actively working to change the narrative. We explored the strategies driving greater equity, the mentorship programs paving the way for future leaders, and the innovations born from diverse teams. Moderated by: Dr. Anita Sengupta, CEO, Hydroplane Ltd.

The Immune System as the Cure: A Paradigm Shift in Women’s Cancers

Activating the body’s own defenses to achieve long-term remission. Moderated by: Anna Magzanyan, President, LA Times Studios

The Billion-Dollar Blueprint: From Idea to Icon

Strong brands don’t happen by accident – they’re built through vision, creativity, and the guidance of leaders who know how to bring them to market. This conversation explored the journey of creating a brand that stands out, and the pivotal role executives and partners play in positioning those brands for long-term success and ultimately acquisition. Hear firsthand from founders and leaders about what it takes to build a brand with lasting impact – and how the right leadership helps guide the path from idea to exit. Moderated by: Anna Magzanyan, President, LA Times Studios

The Founders’ Formula: Building and Scaling Your Business

Small businesses and innovative organizations are the heartbeat of economic growth, but turning bold ideas into thriving enterprises requires more than vision. Access to capital, strategic partnerships, and a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem are critical to success. This conversation brought together founders, investors, and business leaders to explore how to scale sustainably, attract financial backing, and leverage innovation as a competitive edge. We dived into real-world success stories, the evolving role of venture capital, private equity, and community investment in powering the next generation of business leaders. Moderated by: Tracy M Holland, CEO / Founder, Goodwill Brands

Game Changers: Elevating Women in L.A.’s Sports & Entertainment Arena

Los Angeles stands at the crossroads of global sports and entertainment, and women professionals are claiming more space than ever before. From team executives to production powerhouses, influential figures in the L.A. market are shaping a more inclusive and equitable future for women in these industries. This conversation spotlights the leaders, athletes, and creative minds driving change, building networks, creating professional pathways, and redefining what leadership looks like. We explored the collaborations, investment strategies, and cultural shifts that are expanding opportunities for women, both on and off the field and screen. Moderated by: Angel Jennings, Assistant Managing Editor, Los Angeles Times

Live & Well

In a world flooded with wellness trends and quick-fix promises, consumers are searching for credible information and science-backed solutions to support long-term health and wellness to feel and look their best. This panel brought together leaders in wellness, longevity, science, and beauty – along with the executives helping these companies make smart strategic decisions – to explore how to separate real data from hype and what it takes to build trusted brands in this space. From innovative products to evidence-based approaches, panelists shared how they’re shaping a future of wellness that empowers people to live healthier, longer lives. Moderated by: Melissa Magsaysay, Writer, Entrepreneur, and Host of Live + Well by LA Times Studios, LA Times Studios

Fireside Chat with Tina Knowles

Tina Knowles, a celebrated designer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, has built a legacy at the intersection of creativity, business, and community. In this fireside chat, she shared stories from her #1 New York Times bestselling memoir Matriarch, discuss her work to empower women, and reflect on the impact of decades of creative and cultural leadership.
Moderated by: Anna Magzanyan, President, LA Times Studios