Central Mass Conference Speakers

;
SOLD OUT FOR 2025!

2025 Keynotes & Special Guests

KEYNOTE

Racquel Knight
KEYNOTE

Christina Puleo
EMCEE

Suzanne Graham Anderson
Goddess Award 2025

Dr. Snehalata Kadam
Comedian

Serenity Jones

KEYNOTE

Racquel Knight

Racquel Knight is a dedicated social entrepreneur and brand strategist focused on empowering businesses and individuals to build impactful legacies. As the Founder and CEO of Own Your Legacy Brand LLC, she helps entrepreneurs develop strategic, purpose-driven brands through expert marketing, business development, and brand positioning. Her mission is to equip businesses with the tools to start, grow, scale, and thrive.

In addition to her entrepreneurial work, Racquel is deeply committed to education and community empowerment. She is the Founder and Board Chairperson of For One Child Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for underserved children in rural Jamaica. Under her leadership, the foundation has provided schools with essential learning tools, including books, laptops, and infrastructure support, ensuring children have access to quality education.

Racquel also serves as the Director of the Central MA Women’s Business Center, where she supports low-to-moderate-income women entrepreneurs by providing critical resources, mentorship, and training to help them launch and grow successful businesses. Her work in this role underscores her passion for economic empowerment, entrepreneurship, and social change.

She holds an MBA with a concentration in Marketing from Johnson & Wales University, a Bachelor of Arts in Global Citizenship from Becker College, and an Associate of Science Degree in Agriculture Education from the College of Agriculture Science and Education, which includes a Diploma in Secondary Teaching. Her diverse academic background enhances her ability to holistically approach business, education, and global engagement.

Racquel’s impact has been recognized through multiple accolades, including WBJ 40 Under 40, Massachusetts Commonwealth Heroine, and Worcester Magazine Women to Watch (2025). She inspires and uplifts through her leadership, innovation, and unwavering commitment to entrepreneurship, education, and community transformation.

KEYNOTE

Christina Puleo

Christina Puleo is the Senior Executive Director of the Greendale YMCA and Membership Strategy for the YMCA of Central MA. She has been with the YMCA of Central MA since 2011 and with the YMCA movement for over nineteen years. As a woman born and raised in Worcester her love of this city had her return to this community post-graduation from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. She currently lives in Holden with her husband Chris and her twin 17-year-old daughters – both employed at the YMCA. Christina’s commitment to strengthening community and member service has led her to her current role where she has many noteworthy accomplishments. A few being: – Achieving the best financial results in the history of the Greendale Family Branch, improving results 43% since her start – Diversifying the staff team to reflect the community we serve – Launching of national cause driven programs that support cancer survivors, non-swimmers, and individuals of all abilities – Successfully leading philanthropic efforts to support two capital campaigns and twelve annual campaigns; totaling over $1 million – Graduate of Leadership Worcester’s Class of 2015, the first class in the program’s resurgence What Christina is most proud of professionally is her involvement with the work the Y did during the COVID-19 Pandemic. From emergency child care, to remote learning, to pivoting and supporting community re-engagement – Christina led our YMCA to be here at a time when our neighbors needed us most. When asked what has led to her success, Christina will enthusiastically tell you it is her love of people and recognition of talent. She feels blessed to have met so many cause-driven leaders through her career. Both those who have mentored her as well as those she has had the great privilege of mentoring. Understanding that leadership is a skill that needs exercise she considers herself a lifelong learner, as she feels she owes this commitment to ongoing learning to the 325 employees she is responsible for supporting. When not at our Y, Christina can be found with her large circle of friends and family enjoying good food, many laughs, ski country, and crocheting!

EMCEE

Suzanne Graham Anderson

Suzanne Graham Anderson is a dynamic leader and the founder of Positively Suzanne LLC, a lifestyle brand aimed at inspiring and empowering individuals. Through her book Detoxifying Leadership, podcast Sit Down With Suzanne, and talk show Sipping Tea With Suzanne, she shares valuable insights that uplift individuals and communities. Suzanne is an energetic and enthusiastic keynote speaker and moderator. Suzanne creates and facilitates workshops, seminars, summits, and conferences on leadership and self-worth. With over twenty years of leadership experience, Suzanne has dedicated her time to mentoring individuals of all ages. She recognizes the importance of women supporting one another, which has led her to become a mentor at Quinsigamond Community College and EforAll of Greater Worcester. As Alumni President of Quinsigamond Community College, she actively cultivates the next generation of leaders. Suzanne’s commitment to creating equitable and thriving diverse communities is evident through her involvement on multiple boards. Her dual master’s degrees in business and organizational leadership equip her to drive positive changes. Suzanne is a true catalyst for empowerment, inspiring all to uplift each other and work together for a brighter future.

Goddess Award 2025

Dr. Snehalata Kadam

Comedian

Serenity Jones

Thick Chick Comedy Serenity Jones is known for being Worcester’s Main Squeeze. Serenity is a high energy story teller reflecting on her real-life scenarios and dark thoughts. Serenity’s comedy journey started with the hip hop community by hosting their events and tightening up her skills and learning to adapt to multicultural audiences. Highlights were opening up for Wu-Tang Clan, Def Comedy Jam’s Hamburger & Honest John. Boston Freedom Rally, Croptober Festival, & Dab Rite Festival.

Panels

Growing into Trust: Recovering from your past to build your future.

Description:
Your past doesn’t define you—but understanding it does shape how you move forward. In this conversation, we’ll explore how deep self-awareness, nervous system regulation, and embodied trust can help you break free from old patterns and step into the future you actually want. Because the big vision? It’s built in the small, daily moments of choosing yourself.

Takeaways:

  • Discover how recognizing your internal cues and responses can help you move forward with confidence, rather than repeating past cycles.
  • Learn how small, intentional shifts in your daily life can help you break free from old patterns and cultivate deep self-trust.
  • Understand how your “Best is a Moving Target” and what you know now can create the foundation for the long-term vision you’re working toward.

Panel Coordinator: Mary O’Sullivan

Panelists:

Embracing Mindfulness, Growth, and Resilience

Description:
Join us for this inspiring and empowering panel where we explore the power of mindfulness, resilience, and a positive growth mindset in navigating life’s transitions. Our expert panelists will share personal insights, practical strategies, and transformative perspectives to help you embrace change and step into opportunities with confidence and clarity.

Key Takeaways:

  • Learn the Art of Mindfulness Practice – We guarantee you’ll feel better as you continue on today’s journey of growth!
  • Explore how embracing a growth mindset can enhance your well-being and empower you to navigate change successfully.
  • Life transitions are not endings but instead, opportunities. Discover how to build strength and resilience while navigating life’s transitions!

Panel Coordinator: Kelly Johnson

Panelists: 

The Power of Purpose: Charting Your Own Path

Description:
Have you ever thought of trying something completely different from the path you are on now? In this panel, three inspiring women share their stories about redefining themselves and charting a new path based on purpose, passion, and true expertise. Learn how to trust yourself in taking the first step towards big change and discover how you can harness your inner strength and existing skills for success.

Key Takeaways:

  • Rising beyond imposter syndrome by building confidence in your expertise
  • Strategies for leveraging your existing skills to take on new opportunities with intention
  • How to forge your own path with small, consistent steps that drive long-term success

Panel Coordinator: Mia Lin

Panelists: Maria Adamo

Financially Empowered Women: Fierce and Financially Free

Description:
Financial empowerment is about more than numbers—it’s about freedom, security, and choice. Women in Massachusetts face unique challenges, from higher debt and lower earnings to caregiving roles and career breaks. Yet when women are financially empowered, they drive powerful outcomes for themselves and their communities.

Join three local leaders in finance, HR, and nonprofit work as they share the why, what, and how of women’s financial well-being—highlighting the systemic barriers women face, the emotional power of money, and the essential financial habits every woman should have in her toolkit.

Key Takeaways:

  • Why Women? – From systemic barriers and caregiving responsibilities to longer lifespans and career breaks, women face distinct financial challenges including higher debt, lower earnings, and a wider financial literacy gap. Yet history, culture, and data show that when women are financially empowered, they not only manage money well—they drive better outcomes for their families, communities, and futures.
  • Money = Choices – Money isn’t just math – it’s freedom, security, and possibility. When you’re in control of your finances, you gain the power to pursue passions, support loved ones, walk away from what no longer serves you, and design a life that aligns with your values.
  • Tangible Tips Every Woman Should Use – From reviewing retirement accounts to setting up an emergency fund, automating savings, checking credit, and keeping estate plans up to date—these are the foundational habits and strategic moves every woman should have in her financial toolkit to build lasting wealth and peace of mind.

Panelists: 

Unstoppable You: Break Through Limiting Beliefs, Own Your Power, and Thrive in Uncertainty

Description:
Too often, women find themselves trapped by limiting beliefs, societal expectations, and fear of the unknown—holding them back from stepping into their full potential. This empowering panel will help you uncover the subconscious barriers that are keeping you stuck, gain clarity on your true values and desires, and embrace uncertainty as a path to new opportunities. Through real stories, expert insights, and actionable strategies, you’ll walk away ready to redefine success on your own terms and take bold steps toward the life and career you truly want.

Key Takeaways:

  • How to identify and reframe limiting beliefs that keep you stuck and find the strategies to get clear on who you are and what you truly want—not just what’s expected of you.
  • A mindset shift for navigating uncertainty with confidence and turning challenges

into opportunities.

  • Practical tools to take aligned action toward your goals in the face of fear and

self-doubt.

Panel Coordinator: Pamela Bufford-Pomales

Panelists: 

Rising Strong: Women at the Wheel of Industry and Innovation

Description:
In industries like tech, insurance, and automotive, women are not just breaking barriers—they’re rewriting the rules. This powerhouse panel is designed for ambitious women who are ready to elevate their businesses, claim leadership positions, and create lasting impact.

Join successful female leaders as they share real-world strategies for scaling businesses, building influence, and empowering the next generation of women leaders. This is more than a discussion—it’s a call to action for women to uplift and invest in each other while dominating industries once ruled by men.

Explore the power of traditionally female traits in leadership, and how they shape resilience, innovation, and empathy in the workplace. Featuring leaders from technology, insurance, and automotive industries, this panel will tackle strategies for overcoming bias, navigating imposter syndrome, and redefining success in male-dominated fields. Join the conversation to uncover tools for thriving as a trailblazer in your industry.

Women don’t just belong in business—we lead it. Are you ready to take your place at the top?

 

Key Takeaways:

  • Owning Your Authority – How to position yourself as a leader and build a powerful personal brand.
  • From Challenge to Opportunity – Strategies to navigate bias, overcome obstacles, and lead with confidence.
  • Women Elevating Women – The key to building a network of support, mentorship, and collaboration to drive generational success.

Panel Coordinator: Milka Njoroge

Panelists: 

Uplift as We Rise: Successful Networking through Community Engagement

Description:
Leave with a roadmap to build empowered communities. This panel will provide you with the tools to understand the importance of belonging, empower those around you, and find your own path to making a meaningful difference.

Key Takeaways:

  • Biology of Belonging
  • Explore strategic ways to empower and uplift others in your community
  • Find your place and make a meaning impact.

Panel Coordinator: Sabrina Webb

Panelists:

Passion to Profit: Taking the Entrepreneurial Leap!

DESCRIPTION:
Say YES to being your own boss! Turning your dream into a reality can feel like a scary undertaking but it is also one of the most rewarding. This panel will examine the strategies and tools necessary to start your own business. You’ll gain the insights and expertise needed to build a brand that truly matters- A brand that sparks meaningful connections, drives real results, and makes a lasting impact on the world. Get ready to unlock your businesses’ full potential and make your mark!

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Don’t wait for perfection in order to take the leap. Consistency is key!
  • Learn to embrace obstacles and mistakes along the way.
  • Connect with your audience: you can’t be everything to everyone and THAT’S OKAY!

Panel Coordinator:  Kelly Johnson

PANELISTS:

Caring Through Connection

DESCRIPTION:
Women with unique caregiving journeys come together to share real-life stories, challenges, and the resilience that defines their roles. From silent struggles to the obstacles they’ve overcome, each brings a powerful voice to the often-unseen world of caregiving. Their experiences offer a heartfelt, multigenerational perspective on what it means to care for others and the strength it takes to keep going.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

· The importance of asking for help, don’t do it alone.
· Learn how to find resources, how to overcome the challenges and disadvantages of caregiving.

· What are the things that can help you and how to find support through connections.

Panel Coordinator: Mitzila Pineda

Panelists: 

CREATING SAFE SPACES TO UNIFY AND AMPLIFY WOMEN’S VOICES

DESCRIPTION: Join us for an engaging and interactive session to explore the importance of creating environments where women feel secure to express themselves and find commonality.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Defining Values and Finding Common Ground—strategies to define personal and collective values as a foundation for finding common ground.
  • Amplifying Our Voices—strategies to ensure there are diverse and engaged voices at decision-making tables.
  • Empowerment and Unifying Our Voices
PANEL COORDINATOR: Miguelina Peralta