Breaking In, Leveling Up: A Young Professionals Career Forum

Join us on Thursday, January 15, 2026 at The Bank at The Little Book for an energizing and welcoming evening designed for our community’s young professionals connect, learn, and envision the next steps in their careers and lives outside the workplace. This interactive event brings together panelists from across sectors, such as nonprofit, corporate, government, to share their experiences, practical advice, and the “hidden rules” of navigating early career life.

The evening will begin with a moderated panel discussion exploring generational differences in the workplace, career advancement, pay negotiations, social media pressures, imposter syndrome, and the civil rights protections for employees. Following Q&A with the panelists, participants will rotate through table conversations on topics like work–life balance, boundary setting, and the challenges young professionals face today.

We’ll close the night by collectively creating a career vision board—a shared snapshot of the hopes, dreams, and goals of young professionals across the Des Moines community.

Whether you're an intern, new graduate, emerging leader, or early-career professional from any field, this event offers a low-pressure, high-value space to build community, gain insight, and feel supported in your journey.

This event is part of the Des Moines Community Impact & Relations' Collective Impact Learning Series. Learn more at DSM.city/ImpactEvents.

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Host or Publisher Des Moines Civil and Human Rights Commission