When Amanda Polk stood on the podium at the 2016 Rio Olympics, gold medal around her neck, she carried with her a powerful story of perseverance that she's now sharing with women entrepreneurs and professionals in the Florida Keys.

The five-time world champion rower will keynote "Empower You," a full-day celebration of women's empowerment hosted by Upper Keys Business & Professional Women on Saturday, March 7, at the stunning REEF Ocean Exploration Center in Key Largo. More than 100 women are expected to gather for this inspiring day of connection, learning and personal growth.

Polk's journey to Olympic gold is a testament to the power of determination. After earning four All-American honors at the University of Notre Dame and becoming the program's most decorated rower, she joined the U.S. National Rowing Team in Princeton, New Jersey. Her five World Championship titles demonstrated her exceptional talent, but 2012 brought a crushing setback when she served as an alternate at the London Olympics.

Rather than letting disappointment define her, Polk channeled that experience into fuel for her dreams. Four years later, she earned her seat in the U.S. Women's Eight event and helped Team USA secure Olympic gold in Rio de Janeiro. Her presentation, "Striving to Be the Best in a Competitive World," draws on these transformative experiences to offer practical wisdom on resilience, consistency and maintaining peak performance in everyday life.

The daylong event promises much more than inspiration from the keynote stage. Attendees will dive into interactive breakout sessions, explore a Women's Business Expo showcasing local talent, and participate in health and wellness activities designed to nurture body and mind. One of the day's highlights will be Spark Tank LIVE, an exciting competitive showcase where local women entrepreneurs will pitch their innovative business ideas, bringing the energy of possibility into the room.

The Ripple Effect

The impact of "Empower You" extends far beyond the event itself. Net proceeds will directly support Upper Keys BPW programs designed to lift up working women throughout the community. The organization's Adult Women's Scholarship Program awards thousands of dollars annually to local women pursuing career education and training, creating pathways to professional advancement and financial independence.

These scholarships represent more than just financial support. They're investments in dreams, second chances and the belief that it's never too late to pursue your goals. Each woman who receives support goes on to strengthen her family, contribute to her workplace and inspire others in her community, creating waves of positive change throughout the Upper Keys.

Early bird tickets are now available for this transformative day, along with sponsorship opportunities for businesses wanting to invest in women's success. The combination of world-class inspiration, practical learning and meaningful community connection makes "Empower You" a must-attend event for any woman ready to reach her next level of personal or professional achievement.

For more information and to secure your spot at this empowering gathering, visit upperkeysbpw.org/EmpowerYou.