We all have to start somewhere. For me, it started with a spark—one that was lit during the Brava 2025 Women to Watch event, an evening that not only celebrated changemakers but quietly ushered in a shift in my own sense of purpose.
I’ve always wanted to help. To make a difference. To encourage others and leave this world a little better than I found it. But like so many women, especially mothers, my focus for years has been squarely on my children—my whole existence wrapped around nurturing them. That night, surrounded by powerful, driven women, I realized something vital: by stepping forward into my own purpose, I am also paving the way for them.
Room to Rise
The Brava Women to Watch event honored ten exceptional women from the greater Madison area who are transforming their communities—creating safer, more inclusive spaces and uplifting those around them. Those recognized ranged from nonprofit leaders to educators, healthcare advocates to entrepreneurs—all united by their concrete, actionable plans for the year ahead.
From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was welcoming. Tickets were affordable, and included drinks and hors d’oeuvres during the first hour—a thoughtful touch that set the tone for connection. The social hour wasn’t just a time to mingle—it was a springboard for meaningful exchange. Women were talking about what truly matters, brainstorming ways to uplift one another and build sustainable change in the causes close to our hearts. These weren’t surface-level chats; they were the kind of conversations that plant seeds for real growth.
The energy in the room was electric—more than just a celebration, it was a call to action. I wasn’t there because I knew one of the honorees, as many others did. I was there because I needed to be. It was as if life had gently nudged me into that room filled with courage, passion, and visionaries—just when I needed it most.
From Ideas to Inspiration
Each honoree embodied the very essence of transformation—championing policy reform, empowering youth, pioneering innovative programs, and reshaping education. These women are not merely doing meaningful work; they are building momentum, igniting grassroots movements, and carving new pathways toward equity and inclusion. They are architects of change, shifting culture in bold and tangible ways. Simply put, they are changemakers, empowering our communities– right now, and for the future.
As the evening wrapped up, we were surprised with Brava swag bags, brimming with goodies from the event’s generous sponsors. Among the treats: a decadent red velvet bundt cake with silky white frosting from Nothing Bundt Cakes. That little indulgence led me down a rabbit hole of curiosity, where I discovered the bakery’s story—founded by two friends with a dream to spread joy through baking, now a successful chain with a location close to home, on Madison’s west side.
That story echoed something I was just beginning to understand: small beginnings can lead to extraordinary impact. And maybe, just maybe, I was standing at the start of something, too.
Figuring It All Out
The Brava event reminded me that you don’t need to have all the answers before you start- sometimes, the most important step is simply showing up. As I listened to these women share pieces of their journeys—their struggles, triumphs, and the purpose that fuels their work—I felt something shift. Their authenticity inspired hope and sparked a new sense of excitement within me: a belief that I, too, can be the change I want to see.
To all the women out there wondering if they’re ready, wondering if they’re enough—know this: you are. If you have a dream, believe in it. Take the first step. Don’t stop until it becomes your reality. You don’t have to leave your whole life behind to start walking toward your purpose. Sometimes, all it takes is one night, one room full of women, and one spark.
Because we all have to start somewhere. And this is mine.
By: Riley Johnson
