The Sophia Project's 3rd Annual Girl Talk Career Day

The energy was undeniable. The conversations were real. And the possibilities? Endless.

The Sophia Project hosted its 3rd Annual Girl Talk Career Day — a powerful, one-day experience bringing together high school girls from across the St. Louis area for a day built around one big idea: your future is yours to design.

More Than a Field Trip. A Movement.

Girl Talk isn't your average career fair. It's a carefully curated experience that connects young women with professionals spanning both traditional and non-traditional industries — through hands-on workshops, candid conversations, and the kind of real-world insight that doesn't come from a textbook. Every touchpoint was designed to expose attendees to living-wage careers, post-secondary pathways, and leadership opportunities that too often go unseen.

Speakers Who Showed Up and Showed Out

This year's lineup brought extraordinary women to the front of the room — women who built something, lead something, and came ready to pour into the next generation.

Ellicia Lanier, CEO of Urban Sprouts, brought her story of entrepreneurship and community-rooted leadership, reminding attendees that building something meaningful starts with a vision and the courage to act on it.

Dallas Hollans-Mims, CEO of Beyond Holding LLC, delivered insight on what it truly means to lead beyond limits — challenging young women to think bigger about who they are and what they're capable of becoming.

Vendors & Partners Who Made It Happen

Girl Talk wouldn't be possible without the organizations that show up to connect, inform, and inspire. This year's vendor floor featured:

• Affinia Healthcare

• St. Louis Community College

• Ranken Technical College

• United States Air Force

Each organization offered students a direct look at real pathways — from healthcare and skilled trades to higher education, military service, and public safety.

The Bottom Line

Girl Talk exists because every young woman deserves to walk into her future with confidence, clarity, and a community behind her. Year three proved that this event isn't just growing — it's becoming exactly what these young women need it to be.

To every speaker, vendor, volunteer, and attendee who made this day possible: thank you for showing up