Hundreds of women from across the Mid-South gathered at the Renasant Convention Center for the 11th Annual Develop H.E.R Women’s Summit on Friday, March 27.
Hosted by the Junior League of Memphis, this year’s theme, “In HER Era,” framed a day of programming focused on professional development, personal wellness and community leadership.
The event included a marketplace featuring local vendors and community organizations offering products and services ranging from apparel and jewelry to health resources and business support. Breakout sessions were held throughout the day, covering topics related to financial growth, wellness and career development.
A featured conversation with Emmy Award–nominated television host, real estate expert and designer Egypt Sherrod was moderated by Joy Redmond, Action News 5 anchor.
“Memphis always shows me so much love,” Sherrod said, as she opened the discussion. “Are we going to keep it real today?”
Sherrod is best known as host of HGTV‘s Flipping Virgins and its long running show, Property Virgins. She is CEO & Managing Broker of the Atlanta-based residential brokerage Indigo Road Realty, and is also principal designer at Indigo Road Design Group and Indigo Road Home Furnishings.
She spoke about decision-making in the face of uncertainty and the importance of acting despite uncertainty.
“When we move forward in the face of fear, we begin to fear a little bit less,” she said. “For me, it was about obedience. I was called for something bigger. When I didn’t have the connections and didn’t have the credentials, I still moved anyway.”
She also discussed the role of action in creating opportunity.
“When we move, everything we need shows up for us in divine timing,” she said.
Addressing work-life balance and sustainability, Sherrod said she made intentional changes in her own career.
“At some point, something has to give,” she said. “I had to downsize to make my life more sustainable because bigger is not always better.”
She also spoke about financial priorities and long-term goals.
“We cannot exist in a space where we are chasing money,” she said. “Create something for yourself that creates freedom.”
Rekia Kelly-Hughes, left, Develop H.E.R. Women’s Summit speaker chair, and artist Boo Mason, right, present a work of art to Dr. Egypt Sherrod. (Gary S. Whitlow/Tri-State Defender) 
Vendors showcase products and services during the marketplace at the 11th annual Develop H.E.R. Women’s Summit, where local businesses and organizations connected with attendees at the Renasant Convention Center. (Gary S. Whitlow/Tri-State Defender) 
Sarah Locke, left, executive vice president of the Junior League of Memphis, recognizes Pat Pope, the organization’s retiring office manager. (Gary S. Whitlow/Tri-State Defender) 
Lori Jackson Evans, president of the Junior League of Memphis, addresses attendees during the 11th annual Develop H.E.R. Women’s Summit at the Renasant Convention Center. (Gary S. Whitlow/Tri-State Defender)
Sherrod described once losing her job as a turning point in her career.
“I call it ‘fired to freedom,’” she said. “Living in service is where I found joy.”
For some attendees, the discussion reinforced personal and professional goals.
“She encouraged me to go out there and be what I want to change in the world,” said Brittney Patterson, an entrepreneur attending the summit for the first time. “Listening to her made me feel like I can do this.”
Patterson, who owns Nephew #2 BBQ and Exquisite Business Solutions, said the event provided both encouragement and practical insight.
Junior League of Memphis President Lori Jackson Evans addressed attendees near the close of the event.
“I thank all of the women that showed up and chose to be their authentic selves,” Evans said. “I hope you do not let today’s energy stop at the door. Take it home and share it with someone else and surround yourself with truth tellers.”
The organization also recognized longtime office manager Pat Pope, who is retiring after 37 years of service.
“I like to think we found a need in the community and we helped fill that need,” Pope said in a video presentation highlighting her tenure.
Founded in 1922, the Junior League of Memphis supports community initiatives through volunteer service, training and partnerships, and has contributed to the development of several Memphis-based organizations.
