Third annual event encourages women to focus on personal growth, financial literacy, and overall well-being.
By Taya Bohenko, Staff Reporter
Laughter, tears, and words of encouragement filled the Carson Event Center on Oct. 17 as women from across the city gathered for the third annual “It’s All About Me Women’s Health Conference.” The daylong event focused on learning, healing, and empowerment through self-care and community connection.
Organized by the City of Carson in collaboration with CSUDH and the Dymally Institute, the conference brought together local leaders, health advocates, and educators to discuss topics ranging from body positivity and mental wellness to financial literacy and personal growth. The event emphasized that self-care and personal well-being form the foundation for supporting others and strengthening communities.
The day kicked off with remarks from CSUDH President Thomas A. Parham, who described conference attendees as a “divinely inspired possibility.” Parham encouraged attendees to be both self-affirming and self-aware over the course of the event.
“We’re gonna give you a little sunlight to make you feel good, and just enough shade of critique that corrects some of that misguided thinking,” Parham said. “Then just stand back and watch you grow into the fullest expression you all are supposed to become.”
Parham’s remarks set the tone for a day centered on empowerment and holistic wellness—a theme that resonates strongly in Carson, where women’s health outcomes mirror many of the challenges seen across Los Angeles.
According to the LA County Department of Public Health, women across the county face substantial burdens from chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes. Events like “It’s All About Me” are part of Carson’s broader push to improve access to preventive health care and education. The Women’s Issues Commission, which advises the City Council, has identified women’s health and mental wellness as ongoing priorities for community outreach.
Jen Harris, founder of the nonprofit networking group Collected to Lead, highlighted the way social media can affect mental health. Social media platforms can support self-expression, she said, but they can also foster self-doubt.
“It provides an opportunity for connection. You can express yourself online,” Harris said. “However, the impact that we’re finding with mental health in particular is that sometimes we compare ourselves to other people. And comparison kills.”
Harris added that excessive social media use can intensify feelings of isolation, depression, and anxiety. She encouraged attendees to engage with social media intentionally—to use it mindfully rather than let it take control.
“Use social media; don’t let social media use you,” she advised, adding that self-care practices, healthy coping strategies, and positive affirmations can improve your health.
Speakers also emphasized that maintaining mental wellness extends beyond online habits, highlighting the importance of confidence, community, and self-compassion. Lakeisha R. Bearden, a motivational coach who develops curricula for homeschooling, urged attendees to affirm their self-worth and uplift one another.
“My goal is to build a community of women that empower, encourage, offer guidance and accountability … as we practice self-love, shift our mindsets and become the best versions of ourselves,” Bearden said.
Bearden said her message centered on helping women recognize their worth and understand that their experiences are shared.
“I want women to know they are not alone,” Bearden explained. “Whether it’s pain, success, worry or triumph, you’re not an anomaly—you’re a woman.”
The conference also addressed financial empowerment as a key part of overall well-being. Leyla Stefani, an LA-based beauty photographer, emphasized the importance of credit management, savings, and distinguishing between wants and needs.
“It’s never too early to start learning about finance and changing your mindset about money,” said Leyla Stefani, an LA-based beauty photographer. “Money gives you options, and it gives you security.”
The conference’s messages of empowerment resonated with attendees like 27-year-old Jocelyn Borrego, who said the event reminded them to prioritize personal well-being. As a social work student, they added, it reinforced the importance of practicing the same self-care they encourage in others.
“Follow your heart, listen to your instincts and do things even if you’re scared,” Borrego told The Bulletin. “Even if you’re alone and scared, do it. Put yourself out there.”