November 2025 – By Megan Shepherd, Chief Operating Officer, SimVentions, Inc.

One of my favorite events each year is the UMW Women’s Leadership Colloquium. Over the last six years of attending, I’ve found that this day is one of connection, resetting, and reflection. The event always seems to provide the topic and speakers that I need at that time. This year’s event was no different and the theme of “Affirmation” provided the thought-provoking insights that were needed.

What does Affirmation really mean?

At the heart of it, affirmation is both a mindset and a practice. It’s about recognizing value — in ourselves, in others, and in the work we do. It asks us to see, hear, and validate the contributions that often go unnoticed. It isn’t simply a compliment or a motivational phrase. It’s not just encouragement, it’s empowerment. It’s a tool that can build confidence, foster inclusion, and anchor authenticity.

Why does that matter?

There are several reasons:

Bridging competence and confidence: Women often have the skills but may question themselves or feel the need for external validation. Internal affirmation supports confidence to lead, speak up, and claim space.

Navigating identity and difference: In many professional spaces, women must navigate identity, bias, or subtle exclusion. Affirmation helps anchor them in their identities rather than feeling they must conform to a “norm.”

Fostering inclusive leadership: When people are affirmed, they’re often better positioned to affirm others. This behavior contributes to more inclusive cultures, stronger networks, and environments where diverse voices matter.

Resilience and sustainability: Let’s face it, leadership can be draining. Affirmation, both giving and receiving, can act as fuel. It helps sustain energy, lift morale, and build networks of support.

Narrative and legacy: Affirmation invites us to see leadership not only as tasks or roles, but as meaningful narratives: What is the story I tell about myself? What legacy do I leave?

Takeaways and Actions

The day provided me with a number of things that I made note of to think about and to take action. Below are a few.

Reflect on your story: What has affirmed you so far? What parts of your identity, heritage, and values anchor you?

Articulate your voice: Define what you stand for and focus on the importance of intentional communication.

Build your affirmation ecosystem: Look for mentors, peers, and networks who affirm you. In return, seek opportunities to affirm others as giving affirmation often reinforces your own.

Lead with authenticity: Affirmation is about bringing your full self and value and not just fitting into a mold or what you think you should be. Authenticity builds trust, influence, and sustainability.

Use affirmation as a strategy in times of change and transition: Leadership changes, life/work transitions, and any other changes can cause a sense of unknown and uneasiness. Affirmation helps you stay grounded and grounded helps you be a better leader, team member, person.

Create a culture of affirmation: Recognizing and celebrating achievements, progress, and presence, both your own and others, helps create that culture of affirmation.