The 2023 Leading Ladies Panel Series in Milwaukee brought together a remarkable group of women whose voices, leadership, and purpose left a lasting impression. Hosted at Wantable Café and moderated by Diana Gutierrez, WISN ABC Anchor, the evening created space for honest dialogue, shared wisdom, and genuine connection.

This year’s panel featured women from across corporate, philanthropic, and creative sectors—all committed to impact, inclusion, and growth. They included Ashley Ulmer –Director of Customer Service at Wantable Inc., Maritza Contreras – Advisor, Office of Community and Social Impact at American Family Insurance, Lauryn Deck – Co-Founder of Mind Business LLC and Executive Board Member of Milwaukee Fashion Week, Victoria Gonzalez –  Communication Strategist, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Northwestern Mutual, and Annemarie E. Scobey Polacheck – Director, Corporate Philanthropy at Johnson Controls.

Together, they explored what it means to lead with heart, create change within their industries, and use their platforms to uplift others. From entrepreneurship to equity work, the stories shared reflected the many paths leadership can take—and the power of staying grounded in purpose.

The event served as a reminder that every voice matters, every story holds value, and leadership can be worn in many ways.