DOWNEY — On Thursday, July 7, nearly 100 women convened as part of the “FLEW Empower Hour,” a networking mixer designed for professional women of all ages who are looking to advance their careers while helping other women advance theirs.

The attendees consisted of women in different professions, with a heavy focus on women in the legal, mental health, and business professions. Most were local but many travelled from neighboring counties.

The event was held at Ola Restobar, where attendees were greeted with a professional photographer. The attendees were encouraged to network during what organizers called the: “Empower Hour,” a segment of the night where women exchanged their business cards and networked with each other.

The goals of the evening were that women attendees would build and expand their networks, that they would seek advice from more experienced women in their respective industry, and that they would provide advice for those women who were starting off in their professions.

The night’s honorees included Judge Rosa M. Fregoso, who was the “Woman of the Hour.”  Judge Fregoso previously worked as an attorney in a variety of different roles, including years as a private attorney in Downey.  Additionally, the “Breaking Barriers Award” was awarded to Liliana T. Perez, Cultural Affairs Director for the Los Angeles Chargers and who was recently recognized by the NFL and by People en Español as the 2022 MVP – Women in the NFL Award recipient.

María Torres, executive director and lead organizer of the event, commented: “We are humbled to share this space with these two accomplished women. It is important to remember that we must always celebrate, elevate, and empower each other. We also need to thank our allies in advancing our interests! ¡She Se Pudo!”

For more information on how to support the next event, please contact Maria Torres at mtorres@feriaslegales.org.