EmpowHER of the Palm Beaches, Inc. is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization founded in July 2015 by Geanine Wester. Rooted in a vision to inspire and mobilize women to effect meaningful change in their communities, EmpowHER was created to cultivate personal growth, political awareness, and leadership development. Shortly after its founding, Wester was joined by Kalinthia Dillard, whose partnership further expanded the organization’s mission and reach.

At the heart of EmpowHER’s work is a commitment to helping women and girls discover their inner strength, develop leadership skills, and influence political, business, and social power structures. Core initiatives include mentorship programs, annual wellness and empowerment conferences, and the EmpowHER Leadership Academy for Girls—a transformative program designed to cultivate a new generation of confident, purpose-driven leaders.

The Leadership Academy provides high school students with hands-on leadership training, mentorship from professional women, and exposure to civic and career pathways. Through workshops, community service, and real-world experiences, participants gain the tools to lead with integrity, resilience, and impact. EmpowHER’s first public event—a Sunday Brunch held in 2016 at The Colony Hotel in Palm Beach—honored Palm Beach County’s female trailblazers with a historical video tribute, setting the tone for the organization’s mission to amplify women’s voices. Since then, EmpowHER has continued to create empowering spaces for women and girls to thrive. Whether in person or virtual, our programs are designed to uplift, equip, and inspire.

 

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, EmpowHER adapted quickly with its virtual May 2020 conference, “A Different World: Adapting to the New Normal,” addressing topics such as mental health, work-life balance, economic resilience, and leadership in the digital age.

 

EmpowHER is more than a movement—it’s a call to action for women and girls to lead meaningful change in their communities and beyond.