Celebrated Women to Speak at California Conference

San Jose, California — Notable figures including gymnast Simone Biles, actor and activist Jane Fonda, WNBA player Brittney Griner, and Food Network host Padma Lakshmi are set to deliver keynote speeches at the 5th Annual California Conference for Women on February 12.

The event, which will take place at the McEnery Convention Center, expects around 5,000 female leaders from various sectors including business and non-profits. Conference organizers aim to provide a platform for connection, motivation, inspiration, and skill-building for women at every stage of their careers.

Simone Biles, known as the most decorated gymnast in history with 11 Olympic medals and 30 World Championship medals, will address topics such as resilience and the future of gymnastics. “I hope to encourage young athletes to prioritize their mental health,” Biles stated, reflecting on her own experiences. She gained national attention in 2021 when she withdrew from the Olympic Games to focus on her mental well-being, and she successfully returned to competition, winning the all-around gold at the 2024 Olympics.

At 87, Jane Fonda will discuss climate change and how to redefine wellness in later life. Fonda has been an active voice in social issues since the 1960s and is recognized for her roles in iconic films and her fitness empire. “As we grow older, we need to embrace our power to effect change,” Fonda said.

Brittney Griner, a three-time Olympic gold medalist, will share insights on courage and resilience following her harrowing experience of being detained in Russia. “This journey has taught me the importance of standing strong and advocating for what is right,” Griner remarked in a recent interview.

Padma Lakshmi will focus on using food as a conduit for cultural connection and social justice. As a UN Goodwill Ambassador, she has advocated for equality, immigrants’ rights, and women’s empowerment. “Food is a bridge that can connect communities and foster understanding,” Lakshmi said.

The conference will begin at 8 a.m. and conclude at 5 p.m. General admission tickets are priced at $475, though readers of the Mercury News and Bay Area News Group can receive a $150 discount with an online registration using the code “MERCURY.” More details can be found on the conference website.