When I stepped into the room at our most recent Greater EMC Chamber Quarterly Leading Ladies Luncheon, I could feel it immediately—the kind of energy that only happens when the right people gather with intention. Outside, the weather was unpredictable and gray. Inside, the room buzzed with conversation and that unmistakable sense that something meaningful was about to happen.


Luncheon guests strategically pick their favorite Prizes with Purposes bundle before entering the raffle.

Chachi’s Next Door greeted guests with a delicious variety of welcome drinks including a blood orange spritzer and ginger Thai margarita for a fresh punch of festivity. Dynamic Entertainment Productions created a stunning backdrop for photos that both on-point with the theme and Instagram-ready for guests who lined up for their photos.  And to top it off, Facility Sponsor, The Atrium Center, provided the perfect backdrop for this event with a beautiful, welcoming space full of natural light.

I was honored to welcome our guests and set the tone for an afternoon designed to do more than inspire—it was meant to spark real connection and honest conversation around what modern leadership truly looks like. And none of it would have been possible without the generous support of our presenting sponsor, Memorial Hermann Northeast. Their continued commitment to investing in women, leadership, and community is what allows this series to not only exist, but to thrive. Their presence and partnership were felt throughout the entire event, and we are deeply grateful for their leadership and support.


Natalie Cavazos with Memorial Hermann Northeast enthusiastically helps to select raffle winners.
 
From the moment guests were seated, the room felt open and engaged. There was an ease to the conversations—women leaning in, nodding in recognition, and openly sharing experiences. This luncheon centered on a challenge every leader faces: how to lead with empathy while still holding others accountable. It’s a balance that requires intention, self-awareness, and confidence—and the room was ready to explore it.
 

Guests engaged in meaningful discussions at their table about how authenticity can be carried out with empathy.
 
As discussions unfolded at each table, the mood was thoughtful but energized. Guests reflected on their own communication styles, debated direct versus gentle feedback, and shared stories that felt both personal and universal. There was laughter, moments of quiet reflection, and plenty of “I’ve been there” exchanges. It became clear that while leadership styles may differ, the challenges are often shared.
Our keynote speaker, Rachael Covey, Director of Learning & Engagement at Lone Star College–Montgomery, brought a steady, grounded presence to the program. With nearly 15 years of experience in organizational development, human resources, and education, she offered practical insights rooted in real-life leadership moments. Her message resonated deeply: empathy doesn’t remove accountability—it strengthens it. Heads nodded, notes were taken, and you could feel the shift as ideas began turning into action.
 

Keynote Speaker, Rachael Covey, meets the audience with a special look into how authentic leadership allows room for empathy and accountability to co-exist

The Sponsors of this event were the foundation. From our Emerald Supporting Sponsors, Health In Progress and EFG Insurance to our Ruby Supporting Sponsors, Leadership Montgomery County, Fullscope Pest Control, Lone Star Mailing and Printing, and Spartan Roof Construction, the continued investment in this series by our supportive Chamber Members is the backbone of this series.

Elegant floral centerpieces from Flowers of Kingwood added warmth and beauty to each table, bringing a polished but comfortable feel to the room—and a few attendees even left with arrangements in hand.


Luncheon guest accepts the Crown Jewel Centerpiece, donated by Flowers of Kingwood with Owner Farah Qureshi at her side.

We closed the afternoon with our Prizes with Purpose raffle, featuring luxury handbag bundles valued at nearly $2,500 combined. The excitement in the room was contagious, but the purpose behind it mattered just as much. Proceeds directly support future Leading Ladies Luncheons, allowing us to continue offering programming that is intentional, impactful, and community-driven.


Three lucky guests took home designer purse and wallet bundles after winning the Prizes with Purpose raffle drawing.

As guests filtered out—lingering to finish conversations, exchanging contact information, and carrying the energy of the afternoon with them—it was clear this was more than a luncheon. It was a shared experience.
Our next Leading Ladies Luncheon takes place on April 28, and if this gathering was any indication, the momentum—and the conversation—are only just beginning.


For more information about the Leading Ladies Luncheon or other Chamber events, contact:

Tracie Kamenoff, Director of Events and Marketing
Tracie@gemcchamber.com
281-354-0051
 
This event and all Chamber events are proudly supported by funding from EMCID’s Community Development Grant.