Business of Her: Women's Conference 2026

Network. Learn. Grow. And be part of a movement built for her, by her.
About this Event

The Business of Her — Where Her Ambition Meets Action.

We’re bringing together powerhouse women from across industries to spark bold conversations, drop real-world wisdom, and inspire the next generation of leaders.

Get ready to learn from some of the most accomplished and impactful voices in business, media, government, and beyond. These women aren’t just leaders, they’re changemakers who are redefining what’s possible.

Who Should Attend:

This event is for ambitious women at every stage of leadership—entrepreneurs, executives, creatives, change-makers, and anyone ready to grow. Whether you're launching something new, scaling what you’ve built, or simply seeking clarity for your next chapter, you’ll find value, connection, and support here.

Come solo or bring your circle—you belong in this room.

What to Bring:

• A notebook (or your favorite note-taking app)
• Business cards (or just your LinkedIn QR—we’re all about connection)
• Comfortable shoes—you’ll be networking, learning, and maybe dancing!
• Your authentic self—because that’s your biggest strength

Whether you're building your brand, leading a team, or navigating your next big move, this day is for you. You’ll walk away with real tools, fresh inspiration, and a circle of women who get it.

Come as you are. Leave ready for what’s next.

Here's what's included:

• Light breakfast with fruit, pastries, and coffee
• A delicious lunch (with gluten-free and vegan options)
• Access to all speaker sessions with leaders, coaches, and influencers
• Interactive workshops focused on leadership, branding, and personal development
• Our signature Saturday Night Prosecco & Pinot Party—an evening of drinks, music, apps, and bold energy before your Vegas night out

Please note that all speakers, sessions, and times are subject to change. Only event tickets purchased directly through SAHARA Las Vegas' official Eventbrite account will be valid. Tickets are non-transferable nor available for resale. Lost or stolen tickets will not be replaced.

Want to know more? Head to businessofher.com

A Day of Inspiration

🕑: 09:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Doors Open - Registration Begins

Info: Please note that all speakers, sessions, and times are subject to change. All guests will receive a goodie bag and program upon checking in. Attire: Guests are encouraged to wear their best, brightest, and boldest power suit or an outfit that makes them feel powerful.

🕑: 10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Breakfast: Coffee & Networking (Powered by Aristocrat Gaming)

Info: Grab breakfast at your leisure, network, and meet the women. Be ready to take a seat at 11am. Buffet and Coffee Station provided. Located along the Congo Corridor.

🕑: 10:45 AM - 11:00 AM
Photo Opportunities

Info: Along the Congo Corridor.

🕑: 11:00 AM - 11:05 AM
Welcome: Official Conference Start
Host: Speaker: Alexis Meruelo, Founder of Business of Her

Info: Remarks on the Business of Her Community and Official Welcome. Located at the Main Stage (Congo Rooms I, II, III, and IV)

🕑: 11:05 AM - 11:45 AM
The True Power: Money Confidence
Host: Speaker: Sadia Hassan, Vice President, Morgan Stanley

Info: Historically, women have been shut out of money. According to a McKinsey study, women are expected to control $30 trillion in investable assets by the end of the decade. Money is more than numbers: it’s confidence, opportunity, and freedom. Women are building wealth faster than ever before, yet many still struggle to confidently invest, negotiate, and make financial decisions. Join this conversation as our panel shares practical strategies for overcoming money mindsets, building lasting wealth, and creating financial confidence at every stage of your career.

🕑: 11:45 AM - 12:15 PM
Business Founder: Power Hour
Host: Speaker: COMING SOON

Info: What does it really take to build a nationally recognized brand? Hear directly from founders who transformed bold ideas into thriving businesses. From navigating uncertainty and scaling operations to building unforgettable brands and resilient teams, these CEOs will share the honest lessons behind their entrepreneurial journeys and the decisions that shaped their success.

🕑: 12:15 PM - 12:45 PM
From CIA to CEO
Host: Speaker: Emily Hjikade, CEO of Petite Plume Pajamas

Info: From serving in the CIA to leading one of today's fastest-growing luxury brands, Emily Hjikade's career has been anything but traditional. A University of Notre Dame graduate, mother of four, and CEO of Petite Plume, Emily will share how she embraced reinvention, navigated major career transitions, and built a life of purpose while balancing family and leadership. This inspiring conversation will remind you that your path to success doesn't have to be linear, it simply has to be your own.

🕑: 12:45 PM - 02:00 PM
Lunch, Networking & Resume Review

Info: After a special sponsorship recognition from Maria Dominguez, attendees will enjoy an interactive networking lunch designed to foster meaningful connections. Guests will be encouraged to sit at a new table and engage with fellow professionals, creating opportunities to expand their network, find mentors, discover future collaborators, connect with potential clients, and build lasting friendships.

The experience also includes complimentary one-on-one resume reviews with industry professionals who can provide actionable advice for standing out in today's job market. Resume review experts include Madeline Zupan (EPM, Apple), Jenna Heath (Director of Student and Community Engagement, UNLV), and Alli Villines (Founder, She Means Business Non-Profit).

🕑: 02:00 PM - 02:45 PM
Breakout #1 Kristen Corral Leading: You Don’t Need Everyone, You Just Need You
Host: Speaker: Kristen Corral, Tacotarian Co-Founder

Info: (Room: Albert I) We hear constantly that we need to “network,” but how do you actually build
relationships that lead to opportunities? This interactive session teaches you how
to build a powerful professional network, turn introductions into genuine
relationships, and surround yourself with mentors, sponsors, advocates, and
connectors who will champion you when you’re not in the room.

🕑: 02:00 PM - 02:45 PM
Breakout #2 Judge Lucy Armendariz: Play to Win: Turning the Hand You’re Dealt
Host: Speaker: Judge Lucy Armendariz

Info: (Room: George I) We don’t get to choose every card life hands us, but we do get to choose how
we play them. Judge Lucy Armendariz will share lessons from her own journey
and inspire you to look beyond circumstances, recognize your power already in
their hands, and turn obstacles into opportunities. You don’t need a perfect
hand to win. You need the courage and confidence to play the one you have.

🕑: 02:45 PM - 03:05 PM
$5,000 UNLV Student Pitch Competition

Info: At Business of Her, we don't just celebrate today's leaders—we invest in tomorrow's. Watch three outstanding UNLV students take the stage to share the real-world challenges they hope to solve through their future careers in a live two-minute speaker competition. Audience members will help select the recipient of the $5,000 Business of Her Future Impact Scholarship, while the two runners-up will each receive a $1,000 scholarship in recognition of their leadership and vision.

🕑: 03:05 PM - 03:35 PM
The Business of Becoming
Host: Speaker: Nicole Walters, NY Times Bestselling Author

Info: What if the life you're searching for isn't missing, it’s already within you? Join New York Times bestselling author and entrepreneur Nicole Walters for an inspiring fireside chat on embracing your purpose, taking courageous leaps, and redefining success on your own terms. Through stories of entrepreneurship, motherhood, resilience, and personal growth, you'll leave empowered to trust yourself and step boldly into what's next.

🕑: 03:35 PM - 04:00 PM
The Mothership: Wisdom for Life
Host: Speakers: Liset Meruelo, Jericca Gutierrez

Info: It takes a village to build a leader. Throughout her life, Alexis Meruelo has been surrounded by an incredible group of mothers, aunts, mentors, and family friends whose wisdom helped shape her journey. For the first time, she's inviting "The Mothership" to the Business of Her stage to share the life lessons, encouragement, and timeless advice that every woman deserves to hear.

🕑: 04:00 PM - 04:30 PM
Women of Many Titles: Business Owners, Mothers, & WWE Champions
Host: Speakers: Nikki and Brie Garcia, WWE Champions

Info: Nikki and Brie Garcia are WWE Champions, entrepreneurs, founders of Bonita Bonita Wine, podcasters, and reality TV stars. The Garcia Twins have built remarkable careers while embracing the many roles life has given them. In this inspiring closing conversation, they'll share the lessons they've learned navigating business, motherhood, personal growth, reinvention, and life beyond the spotlight. Through honest stories of success, setbacks, and resilience, Nikki and Brie will offer practical wisdom on defining success on your own terms and building a life that is fulfilling both professionally and personally.

🕑: 04:30 PM - 06:00 PM
A Bonita Bonita After Party!
Host: Speaker: Welcome Toast to be announced.

Info: (Location: AZILO Ultra Lounge) Enjoy drinks and hors d’oeuvres. The UNLV Scholarship winner will be announced at 5:30 p.m. Outdoor access to the pool will be available for networking and photos.