Shanna Kehoe, Partner/Wealth Advisor, Carson Wealth
As Partner & Wealth Advisor for Carson Wealth, Shanna Kehoe says she makes major decisions in her life, similar to how she does in her work.
"I continually take risks in my life, and I am open to change," said Shanna. "I always say yes, which has proven to be good and bad but most of the time it's been good. I have jumped off the cliffs with no parachute multiple times, but those decisions have served me well."
Shanna talked about some of the big risks she took in her career, including leaving her former firm after 15 years, not knowing if her clients were going to come with her.
"You have to be confident and believe in yourself," said Shanna, who is also a mom of 4. "Aside from being a risk-taker, I also believe in being accountable for your actions and I expect that from my colleagues, clients, and family. You have one life. Do what you love. Time is of the essence and all you have is now."
Maria Silva, Host/Anchor, Vegas PBS
Veteran television journalist Maria Silva says when life beats her down, she remembers the words of her late mother, “Usted vale mucho, mija” which translates to "You are worth a lot, my daughter."
A first in her family to graduate from college, Maria was the first news anchor for Las Vegas Spanish language TV station, Univision. She also served as anchor and reporter at two other local network affiliate stations, but she said her journey in the news business has not always been a smooth one.
"People remember when you were let go from your job in a very public way and that has you questioning everything, including your own worth," said Maria. "But I learned from my mom to always pick myself up and keep doing what you love and have a positive impact on those around you."
For nearly 3 years, Maria has been doing just that as Host and Anchor at Vegas PBS. A proud immigrant, Maria is continuing her work as a storyteller hosting shows like "Student Spotlight," "Tales from the Trails," and "Bienvenidos a Las Vegas," which explores the Latino community of Southern Nevada. Maria is also an advisory board member for Latinas in Power, an organization with a mission to provide professional Latinas in Nevada with a network to develop their career and life goals.
"I am blessed to now be in a place to help other women, not only to get a seat at the table but also to create their own," said Maria. "I still get emotional thinking about my mother who did what she could to help me achieve my dreams. I know she would have been very proud to see where I am today."
Amanda Brookhyser, Managing Partner, Zumpano Patricios & Helsten
Amanda Brookhyser exemplifies the trailblazing spirit of women breaking barriers in the legal profession. Her promotion to Managing Partner of the Las Vegas office of Zumpano Patricios, is a milestone that reflects her exceptional career.
With over 15 years of experience, Amanda has established herself as a formidable force in high-stakes litigation. Her impressive record includes securing a groundbreaking $6.5M jury verdict in California's first #MeToo case on behalf of a male victim of childhood sexual assault. This landmark case demonstrates Amanda's ability to tackle complex, sensitive issues and achieve justice for her clients.
She says much of her success is attributed to her approach to navigating the legal field. "Law can be a rocky road, but with help from mentors and perseverance, I've learned that every challenge is an opportunity for growth," said Amanda. She emphasizes the importance of finding a female mentor for young women entering the legal profession, as it was instrumental in her own journey. This is why she is passionate about giving her time to mentor women looking to enter the field.
Amanda has successfully tried more than a dozen high-profile cases to verdict, judgment, or award, taking her to courts and arbitration hearing rooms across the country, illustrating her versatility and national reputation.
Although, as a Las Vegas native, Amanda's heartfelt commitment is to the local community, which is evident in her pro bono work. She volunteers with the Children's Attorneys Project, providing a voice for children in foster care and participates in the "Ask-a-Lawyer Program," offering free legal advice.
Amanda believes the true measure of success is not what's on your resume but what you have given back, "When you help people without expecting in return, it all comes back to you tenfold."
Melanie Christensen, Owner & President A Better Solution and Home Care Summerlin
Being a stay-at-home mom for about 30 years, Melanie Christensen said she never imagined that one day she would run her own business. But the experience of opening A Better Solution and Home Care Summerlin has reaffirmed her belief that hard work and positivity can make anything possible.
"These are the lessons I want to pass on to my own children that life may not always be easy, and you can either give up or keep working until you get to a better place," said Melanie. "I want our children to see me battle and sacrifice in order to succeed. It doesn’t matter what we are dealing with at the moment. What matters is the direction where we are going and how hard we are willing to work to get there."
Melanie said she and her husband discovered their passion for caring for the aging as they saw a number of family members and close friends pass in recent years. Their business provides excellent in-home care to clients all over the valley. Melanie said while running a successful business is not for the faint of heart, she always reminds herself why she started on this entrepreneurial journey in the first place.
"I just keep my focus on clients and their families who rely on us for care and our staff who are working hard for their livelihoods. They keep us going every day," said Melanie. "Our clients are so important to us but so are their families. They are facing some of the most stressful times in their lives. And if we can lift a little weight off their shoulders, it’s a huge blessing. It really is."
Wendi Schweigart, Founder Project Marilyn Inc.
"Instead of living a life of obligation, how do you live a life of inspiration?"
This reminder from her late mother is what drives Wendi Schweigart every day.
"My mom passed away from cancer in 2011. She was my inspiration for starting Project Marilyn," said Wendi. "I want to help people, and we do that by combatting period poverty which affects so many women in our community."
Wendi says her mom also leaves behind other life lessons she is passing on to the younger generation, including her 13-year-old son: Resilience, tenacity, and always remembering that tomorrow is a new day.
Wendi is also the Marketing Director for NDL Group Inc. and the current President of CREW Las Vegas. This latter role is helping to amplify her leadership role among women in her field.
"Leadership isn't about being at the front, it's about empowering others to rise with you," said Wendi. "Through resilience and collaboration, we've learned that true strength lies in lifting others up, especially in the face of adversity."