Some conversations inspire. Others challenge. And then there are the rare, unforgettable moments that fundamentally redefine leadership.
At the Career Mastered Awards 2026, one such “dropthe-mic” moment unfolded during an extraordinary conversation between Johnson C. Smith University President Dr. Valerie Kinloch, Career Mastered Trailblazer Honoree, and acclaimed award-winning journalist and National Living Legends Honoree Soledad O’Brien.
Their exchange was a masterclass on the evolving voice of women leaders — and the responsibility to support, sponsor, and scale others.
Authentic, candid, and deeply impactful, Soledad O’Brien spoke openly about the realities of building a purposedriven career in a world that often pressures women to shrink, conform, or second-guess themselves.
Her message was clear:
Ignore the noise. Embrace growth. Stay adaptable.
Reflecting on leadership in a rapidly changing world, O’Brien challenged leaders to remain flexible, curious, and willing to evolve.
Success, she emphasized, is not built on perfection — it is built on resilience, learning, and the courage to keep moving forward despite criticism or uncertainty.
Equally compelling was her commitment to mentorship and investing in future generations.
The conversation explored the critical importance of pouring into young women, creating opportunities, and helping emerging leaders build careers grounded in purpose, impact, and service.
That commitment is embodied through O’Brien’s PowHERful Foundation, which supports young women through mentorship, education, leadership development, and pathways to opportunity.
Dr. Valerie Kinloch brought equal depth and insight to the conversation, speaking from her own transformational leadership journey in higher education and her unwavering commitment to student success, equity, and excellence.
Together, these two powerhouse leaders illuminated a leadership model urgently needed today — one that extends beyond titles and personal achievement toward intentional sponsorship, meaningful advocacy, and creating systems where others can rise.
The theme of scaling others resonated throughout the afternoon.
Across industries — media, higher education, public service, business, and philanthropy — a common thread emerged:
The strongest leaders are not measured solely by what they accomplish personally.
They are measured by who they develop, who they elevate, and what legacy they leave behind.
At Career Mastered 2026, the voice of women leaders was not simply heard.
And its message was unmistakable:
Leadership is not just about climbing higher.
It is about reaching back, building capacity, opening doors, and ensuring future generations have the confidence, support, and sponsorship to walk through them.
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Dr. Lisa J. Lindsay Wicker Internationally recognized HR executive, thought leader, author and career strategist, Dr. Lisa J. Lindsay Wicker shares contemporary relevant work life experiences and empowering principles with her clients as demonstrated in her books, The Winning Spirit, Power Play! and her award-winning release – Capacity: Women Shattering the Limits – NOW!
