The Western Riverside Council of Governments (WRCOG) hosted its annual Women’s Day Forum on March 10 at the Moreno Valley Conference Center, bringing together more than 200 attendees from across the Inland Empire for a half-day of connection, reflection, and inspiration.

Centered on the theme “Give to Gain,” the event highlighted the power of collaboration and the collective impact of women in shaping communities. Attendees—including students, professionals, and regional leaders—participated in a vendor showcase, roundtable discussions, and networking opportunities designed to foster mentorship and shared learning.

Among the featured speakers was Hoori Ajami, Professor of Groundwater Hydrology at University of California, Riverside. In her keynote, Ajami shared her journey from Iran to the United States and Australia, describing how she navigated cultural barriers, gender limitations, and global challenges to build a career in a traditionally male-dominated field. Her work now focuses on water resources, drought, and developing tools to better understand and manage groundwater systems.

Ajami emphasized the importance of mentorship and perseverance, noting that her success was shaped by those who supported her along the way. “It was a great honor to be here,” she said, reflecting on the opportunity to represent UC Riverside among a room filled with women leaders. She encouraged attendees—especially students—to “trust yourselves, find mentors, and follow your passion,” adding, “there will be obstacles, but there are always opportunities if you keep moving forward.”

Her remarks also highlighted the value of resilience and community, underscoring how support systems—colleagues, mentors, and students—play a critical role in helping individuals navigate challenges and make a lasting impact.

Throughout the forum, a strong sense of community underscored each session, reinforcing the event’s central message: when women support and uplift one another, entire communities benefit.