Celebrating 20 Years of the Women of Power Summit
Alisa Gumbs, Deputy Chief Content Officer at Black Enterprise, is leading the charge for the 20th anniversary of the Women of Power Summit, one of the most influential gatherings for Black women leaders. The event, set for March 11–15, 2026, in Las Vegas, brings together over 2,000 women from diverse industries, providing a space for learning, networking, and mentorship.
Gumbs, who has overseen programming for the summit since 2015, reflects on the growth of the event. “The summit is women who are all incredibly amazing in their own right and incredibly accomplished, and they’ve come together to work on themselves and to pour into each other in a way that is just so generous with their experience, wisdom, and their lessons,” she told Black Enterprise.
From Attendee to Leader
Gumbs first attended the Women of Power Summit as a copy editor at Black Enterprise. Over the years, she climbed the ranks to become Vice President and Deputy Chief Content Officer, guiding the summit’s evolution. She describes the event as a safe space for women to navigate challenges, especially in corporate America.
“We’re creating a safe space in order to help other women navigate the challenges and the obstacles that we all face, and really make it to wherever they’re trying to make it to,” Gumbs explained. Her leadership ensures that the summit not only inspires but also equips women with practical tools to advance their careers.
Honoring Legacy and Excellence
This year’s summit features Legacy Award nominees such as Angela Bassett, Rosalind Roz Brewer, and Carla Harris, alongside Luminary Award honorees like Angela Rye and Bozoma Saint-John. Gumbs emphasized the importance of recognizing women who have made a meaningful impact:
“We are hoping that a new generation and a wider audience of people can see and appreciate them as honorees. It’s meaningful for them to be recognized by their own right.”
The awards highlight women whose achievements provide guidance and inspiration to attendees, creating a ripple effect of mentorship and leadership.
Multigenerational Networking and Career Growth
The summit continues to evolve, now including initiatives like freshman class orientation for first-time attendees. This allows newcomers to connect with peers and mentors early, expanding their networks and fostering multigenerational support.
“That multigenerational thing is one of the things that we’re leaning into for the 20th anniversary. Women who are coming for the first time can come together, can get a head start on making new connections, and expand their networks,” Gumbs noted. She highlights that often, the most valuable lessons come not only from speakers but also from fellow attendees.
Supporting the Whole Woman
Beyond professional development, the summit addresses financial, physical, mental, and emotional wellness. Workshops, coaching sessions, AI labs, and power luncheons equip women to thrive in every aspect of their careers and personal lives.
“Here we have women who are incredibly accomplished, who are well compensated, and we want to make sure that we’re speaking to the whole person, and that we’re tending to their financial health, their physical health, as well as their mental and emotional health,” Gumbs said.
A Platform for Recognition and Influence
Alisa Gumbs believes the summit’s real power lies in shining a light on Black women’s accomplishments and providing opportunities to share lessons learned. “We really want to be where the women are and where the women need us to be. Wherever there are women doing great things, but are not getting the credit or the shine that they deserve, we’ve gotta shine a light on their success,” she explained.
The 20th anniversary of the Women of Power Summit demonstrates a legacy of mentorship, community, and empowerment that continues to shape generations of Black women leaders.
