On June 10, Ascend NorCal hosted our Pride Month Networking Mixer, Seen and Heard: Visibility, Identity, and Leadership, bringing together professionals, allies, and community members for an evening of meaningful conversation, connection, and reflection.
Through personal stories and candid discussion, our speakers explored what it means to lead authentically, navigate multiple identities, and create environments where people feel seen, heard, and valued.
Several themes emerged throughout the evening, including:
Authenticity as a foundation for leadership
Visibility as both an opportunity and a responsibility
Representation of different lived experiences matters
Allyship requires action
One powerful takeaway was support doesn’t always come from someone who shares your background or experience. Some of the most impactful mentors, advocates, and allies are people who take the time to listen, learn, stand beside us, and help us grow.
The discussion reminded us that leadership is not about individual success. It is about creating pathways for others, opening doors, amplifying voices, and helping people believe what is possible for one person can become possible for many.
Thank you to our speakers, moderator, attendees, volunteers, and partners for helping create a welcoming space for dialogue, learning, and community.
Designed as a six-month mentorship-based career accelerator, the Ascend NorCal LevelUp Program helps professionals strengthen practical career and leadership skills, expand their networks, and accelerate career growth through mentorship, executive insights, peer learning, and meaningful professional connections.
Whether you are preparing for your next leadership opportunity, looking to expand your network, or seeking a community committed to grow and develop, LevelUp is designed to help you move from inspiration to action.
Officially launching at our September IAG/AEN Conference at Santa Clara University, the cohort-based experience will culminate in a capstone and graduation in March 2027.
Participants will
Build greater leadership skills, gain mentorship, and develop executive presence
Navigate career growth with greater clarity and intention
Expand their network and join a growing community of Ascend NorCal leaders
Applications and additional program details will be shared on July 7.
Friday, September 18, 2026 | Santa Clara University
Join us for a rewarding day of learning, networking, and leadership development at our signature fall conference—and the official launch of the 2026–2027 Ascend NorCal LevelUp Program.
There are multiple ways to stay engaged with Ascend NorCal:
Attend upcoming events
Volunteer with the chapter
Explore speaking opportunities
Connect us with potential partners
Join our mailing list
If you are interested in getting involved or would like to connect with our leadership team, please reach out to northerncalifornia@ascendleadership.org and let us know how you would like to engage.
Navigating a career transition, re-entering the workforce, or impacted by recent layoffs? Experience the power of the Ascend network with bi-weekly virtual office hours designed to support career insights, networking, and actionable support.
