The GLOW Conference, an experience aimed at equipping women with the tools, confidence and connections to succeed, will return to the Quad Cities for a second year on Saturday, April 11.
Organizers said the event will build on the momentum of a movement launched last year that is dedicated to empowerment, leadership, and career growth for women in the Quad Cities and beyond.
The lead sponsors of the personal development event are: Quad Cities Bank & Trust and Huiskamp Collins Investment. Year two of GLOW will again bring together dynamic speakers, inspiring breakout sessions, and networking opportunities, creating space for connection, collaboration, and meaningful growth, the GLOW organization said in a news release Monday, March 2.
GLOW will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Bally’s Quad Cities in Rock Island. Register now at www.glowempowerment.com. Tickets are $129.
LaDrina Wilson, GLOW’s founder, described the event as a transformative experience designed to equip women to break barriers and excel in their careers, businesses, and personal lives, all while embracing the powerful intersection of culture and professionalism.
“Seeing the impact of our inaugural year affirmed that women in our region are ready for spaces that challenge, uplift, and connect them in authentic ways,” Ms. Wilson said. “GLOW was created to help women grow boldly, lead unapologetically, and truly own their wins, and in year two, we’re building on that momentum to go even deeper.”
The 2026 conference will include headliner RaVal Davis, an actress, host, and body-positive advocate (www.ravaldavis.com). She is a leading voice in conversations around beauty, wellness, women’s issues, and the powerful intersections of race, gender, and entertainment. Also a CNN op-ed contributor and host of BET’s Don’t Touch My Hair, Ms. Davis is known for bringing smart, honest, and engaging discourse to every stage she steps onto. From Essence Fest and The National Urban League to national television screens on CBS and Starz, she continues to champion women, purpose, and authentic storytelling wherever she goes.
Other highlights
- Breakout sessions will focus on Career & Leadership Pivots, Cultural Identity & Belonging, Wealth & Financial Freedom, Health & Well-Being, and AI for Business
- Pre-conference workshops will be from 3-5 p.m. Friday, April 10, at Common Chord, located at 129 Main St., Davenport. They offer a more intimate, deep-dive on select topics.
- Networking & Vendor Showcase is part of the conference lineup at Bally’s. It will feature local businesses and resources tailored to uplifting and supporting women of all walks of life.
GLOW pillars
GLOW is on a mission to empower minority women to aspire, pursue, and excel in leadership and business – on their terms.
The conference is built on four pillars of GLOW:
Growth – breaking limits and achieving bold goals.
Leadership – leading authentically and confidently with impact.
Ownership – owning strengths, talents, and successes.
Winning – celebrating achievements and lifting others along the way.
