Local First AZ: Women's EmpowHERment Panel & Mixer: Wellness in Action

Local First AZ: Women's EmpowHERment Panel & Mixer: Wellness in Action

You're invited to an unforgettable evening of inspiration, wellness and connection! This special event brings together powerful voices in health and wellness—leaders, healers and changemakers who are passionate about building a stronger, healthier AZ community.

Hear their stories, gain practical insights and join the conversation on what it means to thrive—physically, mentally and socially. Then, stay for a vibrant mixer where you’ll have the chance to connect with like-minded women, expand your circle and spark new collaborations.

This is more than an event — it’s a space to connect, grow and be inspired. You won’t want to miss it!

Meet the Moderator & Panelists:

Moderator, Acacia Barnett -

Acacia Barnett is a Sierra Vista native. She was raised by her grandparents Hattie and Clayton Barnett. She is a proud Sun Devil and in addition to being an entrepreneur, Acacia is dedicated to community support and outreach with her nonprofit Hattie B. Black Women In Progress. In 2016, she founded the Girls Confidence Camp. She received the Golden Standard Award during Black History Month from the Phoenix Suns for her work in the community. 

Panelist, Chelsie Bruggeman -

Chelsie Bruggeman is the Founder and CEO of MOMentum for Working Moms, a professional development organization supporting ambitious women growing careers and families. A former nonprofit leader turned entrepreneur, she creates space for working moms to lead with confidence, connect in community, and thrive. Her other full-time job? Raising two energetic boys, ages 8 and 5—an experience that deeply informs her mission to make work actually work for mothers.  

Panelist, Jaleaa Lewis -

Jaleaa Lewis is a registered nurse with over two decades of experience who founded Whole Harmony Healing to blend modern medicine with holistic wellness. Her transformative journey began when her daughter faced vaccine complications, leading her to embrace herbal remedies, Kemetic Reiki, sound therapy, and life coaching. Today, she empowers women to heal generational trauma and thrive in mind, body, and spirit.

Panelist, Cher Anderton -

Cher Anderton, MSW, LICSW, is a therapist, speaker and educator who helps people get to the root of what’s really getting in the way of wellness, connection and success. With a unique lens shaped by her expertise in trauma-informed care and social-emotional intelligence, she moves teams beyond surface solutions toward lasting change. Through her book, podcast, membership space and workshops, Cher equips people to shift patterns, build skill, and truly thrive.

Presenting Sponsors:
MOMentum For Working Moms
MISGIF: GIF Back Club