Women Empowered to Succeed: Leadership, Connection, and the Growing Impact of Women in the RGV

Some events are about business.
Others are about people.

Last week in McAllen, professionals from across the real estate and construction industries gathered for something that felt much bigger than a luncheon. Hosted by the Rio Grande Valley Builders Association through its Professional Women in Building Council, the “Women Empowered to Succeed” luncheon created a space where leadership, mentorship, and community came together in a meaningful way.

Held at the Cambria Hotel, the event welcomed women from different professional backgrounds who share a common goal: continuing to grow, lead, and create opportunities within industries that have historically been male dominated.

The atmosphere throughout the luncheon reflected exactly what the council stands for. Not competition, but collaboration. Not simply networking, but genuine connection.

Conversations filled the room as professionals exchanged experiences, shared perspectives, and encouraged one another through the realities of leadership and career growth. For many in attendance, the event served as a reminder that success becomes more meaningful when knowledge and opportunities are shared with others.

The luncheon featured guest speaker Jeanne Conger, whose message focused on leadership, industry growth, and the evolving role of women within construction and development. Her presence brought insight and perspective to a room filled with professionals continuing to shape the future of the Rio Grande Valley.

Among those participating was Valentina Saenz, Treasurer of the Professional Women in Building Council and representative of BIG Realty. Her involvement reflects the ongoing collaboration between organizations and businesses working toward long term professional development and stronger community relationships.

For Valentina, being involved in the council carries meaning beyond a title.

“It’s about connection, growth, and having a seat at the table where women are actively supporting and elevating each other,” she shared.

That message resonated throughout the entire event.

Because moments like these are not only about professional advancement. They are about creating environments where people feel supported, heard, and encouraged to continue growing both personally and professionally.

At BIG Realty, involvement in initiatives like this reflects a larger commitment to community engagement and leadership development. Supporting spaces where professionals can learn from one another, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to the growth of the industry remains an important part of the company’s culture.

The “Women Empowered to Succeed” luncheon also reflects a broader shift happening across real estate and construction. More women are stepping into leadership positions, shaping conversations, building businesses, and influencing the future of their industries in lasting ways.

And events like this help make that progress visible.

Not through headlines alone, but through real conversations, shared experiences, and communities built on support rather than competition.

As the luncheon came to a close, what remained was more than a successful event. It was a reminder that leadership grows strongest in environments where people are willing to uplift one another.

And that kind of impact extends far beyond one afternoon in McAllen.