Inspiring Today’s Young Women to be Tomorrow's Leaders
“If you can see it, you can be it.”
That’s the mantra of Katlyn Grasso, leader of 89,000 young women on a mission to learn from the most innovative companies in America. Grasso and 50 young women recently spent a day at QVC’s world headquarters in West Chester, Pa., as part of a nationwide tour.
“Out of all the companies we visited, QVC clearly embodies our mantra through its empowering culture and inspirational leaders,” Grasso said. “We saw at QVC that you can really chart your own course. No matter how old you are or what your title is, you can be an influential person at the company. It’s such an open and immersive culture.”
Katlyn is the CEO of GenHERation, an organization she started in 2014 to inspire young women to become the best versions of themselves both personally and professionally. When they were planning out their recent 2-month, seven-city tour of the country’s most innovative businesses, Katlyn knew QVC had to be on the list.
“Our audience has a variety of career interests, but there is something for everyone at QVC,” said Grasso. “It’s a one stop shop for professional success.”
On the day of their visit, high school and college-aged women got to see the ins and outs of QVC in a behind-the-scenes tour and they participated in a panel discussion with three female executives, including Anna Baker, Director of Global Merchandising Strategy and Category Development, Ellen Lennon, Director of Beauty Merchandising, and Rachel Boesing, QVC Program Host.
Rachel encouraged the women to follow their passions and try new things in order to discover what they really love to do.
“In life, my motto is: launch, learn, relaunch, repeat,” said Boesing. “I was glad to help inspire young women of the next generation to be leaders by showing them that women can be in, and are in, leadership positions.”
After the panel, the women tried their hands at creating a one-minute product pitch as part of a skill-building session. The panel gave feedback on creativity, practical implementation and presentation skills.
Our participation in events such as this is one way QVC is looking to make a difference in the lives of women through entrepreneurial opportunities and meaningful connections.