Thursday: June 22, 2023
Meta
Getting to listen in on an intimate conversation with Yara Shahidi was not on my schedule, but started the day off on a high note! I have always been a fan of her work as an actress, but listening to her speak on important issues made me love her even more. I was really impressed by how well-spoken she was when talking about her experience growing up as a black Iranian woman. Yara’s perspective was eye-opening and made me happy to have role models like her for our generation. Even though she joked about how people refer to her as “the voice of Gen Z” I would not complain if she actually was. For Yara, everything in her life blossoms from her curiosity. I found it inspirational how she has achieved so much because of this. While growing up on a network TV show, she still managed to graduate from Harvard just last year.
The Art of Conversation
The Female Quotient
Women's Equality Lounge
The Female Quotient's Equality lounge at Hotel Martinez was the perfect break from the summer heat. I was sad I had not checked it out sooner because of all the exceptional amenities. Guests were free to get their makeup and hair done, take headshots, and even get IV fluids! The effort put into making the lounge such a welcoming and inclusive space went above and beyond. As I walked around I was motivated by their commitment to closing the gender gap in the industry. As a young woman, I am so grateful people are coming together to create a fair working environment so everyone can receive equal treatment.
Snapchat x Disney
This augmented reality exhibit was an entertaining experience and made me feel like I was back in Disney World. Each room had different interactive Snap lenses that matched a Disney movie like Guardians of the Galaxy or Avatar. Disney and Snapchat's partnership intertwined creativity and technology to make a memorable and engaging exhibit. Seeing a real life Baby Yoda was also something I will never forget!