Over 150 middle and high school girls from Indiana gathered Friday at The AMP at 16 Tech for empowerment, inspiration, and real-world career exposure.
The event, titled “I Can Be That” Girls Empowerment: Sports Edition, was hosted by the 16 Tech Community Corporation in partnership with the WNBA All-Star 2025 Host Committee. The goal? To show young women, particularly those from underserved communities, that sports and beyond careers are possible.
Girls from Indianapolis Public Schools, charter schools, and township districts participated in hands-on learning sessions and one-on-one mentorship with some of Indiana’s most influential women in sports, business, and civic leadership.
Throughout the day, attendees explored topics ranging from advanced manufacturing to healthcare and life sciences. In addition to motivational talks, students participated in experiential learning sessions designed to boost their confidence and expose them to in-demand careers they may not have considered.
“This is about expanding their vision,” said Holli Harrington, senior director of strategic alliance at the Indianapolis International Airport and a key organizer of the WNBA All-Star 2025 Host Committee’s Women and Girls Engagement Series. “We want these girls to walk away knowing they belong in every room—and can lead in those rooms.”
The lineup of powerhouse mentors included:
- Dr. Allison Barber, CEO of To The Hoops Strategies and former president and COO of the Indiana Fever
- Dr. Carolene Mays, president and CEO of Building Leaders and Legacies
- Jennifer Magley, chief brand officer for The Basketball League
- Ebony Armstrong, associate vice president with the Indiana Fever
- Toyinda L. Smith, founder of The Coaching Seat
Participants heard stories of leadership, resilience, and triumph while learning about sports management, marketing, branding, coaching, and entrepreneurship career paths.
“This was more than just a panel or a photo op,” said one IPS student who attended. “I left with confidence—and with names and advice I’ll never forget.”
Organizers say this is just the beginning. The event is part of a broader commitment by the WNBA All-Star 2025 Host Committee to engage women and girls in meaningful, transformational ways ahead of the highly anticipated game weekend next summer in Indianapolis.
The “I Can Be That” series will continue with additional events and mentorship opportunities in the coming months to inspire the next generation of leaders in Indiana and beyond.
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