WomanUP!® 2026: Reigniting Our Why, Strengthening Our Community

As WomanUP!® celebrated its 10th anniversary, one message resonated throughout the conference: success is not simply about where you've been. It's about finding the courage, clarity, and confidence to take the next step forward.

The day began with Tamara Suminski, 2026 C.A.R. President; Mark Peterson, 2026 President-Elect; and Nikki Coppa, 2026-2027 C.A.R. Treasurer setting the spark for the conference and reflecting on the impact of the WomanUP!® community. Tamara Suminski reminded attendees of the strength of the community around them: "You are surrounded by women who are leading businesses, supporting families, building communities, mentoring others, taking risks, and creating opportunity for the next generation." That spirit of leadership, support, and shared success was evident throughout the conference.

The WomanUP!® Co-Founders, Sara Sutachan, C.A.R.'s Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer; Debra Trappen, Founder of the Red Threads Collective; and Bernice Ross, CEO of BrokerageUP, shared memories from the organization's beginnings and reflected on how the movement has evolved over the past decade. Their conversation highlighted both how far WomanUP!® has come and the opportunities that lie ahead. Attendees also enjoyed a special video message from Leslie Appleton-Young, former C.A.R. Senior Vice President and Chief Economist, and First MLS Consultant Chief Economist.

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Women from across California gathered to learn from industry leaders, connect with peers, and invest in their personal and professional growth. Through thought-provoking conversations with leaders including Nykia Wright, CEO of the National Association of REALTORS®; Jennifer Branchini, C.A.R. Past President and 2025 NAR Vice President of Association Affairs; Sherry Chris, Special Advisor of Brokerages at NAR; Bernice Ledbetter, Director of the Center for Women in Leadership at Pepperdine Graziadio Business School; and Valorie Kondos Field, former UCLA Gymnastics Head Coach, attendees were encouraged to embrace change, lead with purpose, and rediscover the "why" behind their work.

Equally important were the connections formed throughout the day. Many participants shared that networking with fellow REALTORS®, brokers, and industry professionals reminded them that they are not navigating the challenges and opportunities of today's market alone. The WaveMaker Dinner, table discussions, and informal conversations created opportunities to build relationships, exchange ideas, and strengthen the support system that defines the WomanUP!® community.

The feedback was overwhelmingly clear: attendees valued hearing stories of resilience, leadership, and perseverance. They left feeling energized, supported, and inspired by a community committed to helping women grow, lead, and succeed in real estate.

As we look ahead to the next decade of WomanUP!®, our mission remains unchanged: to create opportunities for women to connect, learn, lead, and thrive. Whether you are a new REALTOR®, an experienced broker, an entrepreneur, or an emerging leader, WomanUP!® is here to support your journey.

The conference may be over, but the community continues all year long.

We invite you to become part of the conversation, access valuable resources, and connect with a network of women who are committed to lifting one another up.

Visit IAmWomanUP.com and join the community.

Together, we're not just building careers. We're building connections, creating opportunities, and empowering the next generation of leaders in real estate.