Nearly a thousand prominent community leaders joined together at the Rosen Centre Hotel for the Women’s Leadership Luncheon on March 17. Keynote speaker Diana Nyad, celebrated endurance swimmer and best-selling author, shared her story of inspiration and perseverance.

Nyad dreamed of becoming the first person to swim from Cuba to Key West. Though she tried four times — starting in her 20’s — it wasn’t until her fifth attempt at the age of 64 that she succeeded. Nyad focused her speech on achieving dreams at any age and motivating people to put their full-hearted effort into their goals.

For the people in the room, it was a message that resonated. The Women’s Leadership Luncheon has historically been a vehicle for change. The Women’s Leadership Council uses this annual luncheon to bring people together and to fund holistic solutions for issues impacting women and children.

This year’s event raised over $183,000, which will be invested in United Way’s literacy and education programs throughout Central Florida.

For photos from the event, please visit our Facebook page.