Women’s empowerment expo returning to Valley Stream

An expo featuring female mentors in the areas of marketing, finance, health and wellness, coaching and entrepreneurship will return to Valley Stream for the third time on Saturday, Oct. 22, as part of a local nonprofit’s effort to empower women.

The expo is being hosted by Women on the Rise, which, according to founder Marsha Guerrier, of Valley Stream, is a “women’s empowerment organization, where our mission is to support, educate and inspire women to live their best life.”

As in previous years, the expo's stage will feature live presentations on a variety of topics throughout the day. Women small business owners will offer presentations on a variety of products and services, including beauty products, health and wellness products, premium jewelry, family counseling services, essential oils for holistic healing services, legal services for personal and business needs and more.

New this year, according to Guerrier, is a “ask the expert,” table, where experts in law, accounting, real estate and career counseling will set up stations and field questions from attendees.

“What’s important for our young audience is that they see a support system can help them accomplish things in life,” Guerrier said. She said that navigating adulthood has become especially difficult for young professionals due to the bleak job market, which was something she considers when organizing the event each year.

“[The expo can help young people] figure out how to maneuver in their career — especially when there are really no jobs out there for the young set,” Guerrier said.

The expo is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 22 from noon to 5:00 pm at the Gateway Christian Center at 502 Central Ave in Valley Stream. Advance tickets are $15 at www.wotrexpo2016.eventbrite.com (use promo code "wotrexpo" for a $5 discount.) Admission at the door will be $25. For more information, visit www.womenontheriseforumandexpo.com.

“This is what I love to do,” Guerrier said. “I love finding resources for people.”