GRRC Hosts Inaugural Women’s Leadership Conference

September 2, 2022

Kyle Knox

Managing Editor

The Gila River Resorts & Casinos hosted their inaugural Glow-Grow Game Women’s Leadership Conference, Aug. 24-26 at the Gila River Resorts & Casinos – Wild Horse Pass. The Glow-Grow Game, as titled, drew dozens of women representing various departments within the Gila River Resorts & Casinos for three days of training and the opportunity to learn from gaming industry leaders. In addition, Gila River leaders inspired growth within management teams and staff by sharing insights on cultivating strong relationships, and overcoming obstacles to champion a thriving career.

“We asked for nominations from all the departments, from those we selected the first group for this year and will host the remaining nominees next year,” said Nassia Shams, Sr. Human Resources Manager of Gila River Resorts & Casinos. “It almost brought tears to my eyes seeing it all unfold today, because we really wanted to build relationships and networks among the women in this industry.” 

Shams said they all received support from their leadership throughout the year of planning for the event. As a result, their team crafted the conference to engage with training and workshops during the day while providing entertainment and networking opportunities every evening. 

For the first day, Lt. Governor Monica Antone served as a keynote speaker providing remarks on her experience as a tribal leader and advocate for public service. 

Lt. Gov. Antone framed her remarks around “passing the baton” where she illustrated how important it is for leaders to pass down their knowledge and leadership to the next generation. 

“Our belief system has always looked at strength and energy from the seed of our mothers and grandmothers, and passing on that strong energy to another generation,” said Lt. Gov. Antone.  “In my opinion, passing that energy gives that strength to empower other women to take the plunge and do what’s right with an enduring attitude, with gratitude and the spirit of humbleness.”

During her address, she also spoke of her time working closely with former Gov. Mary V. Thomas, the first woman to serve as Governor of the Community.  

“She [Thomas] would always tell me ‘You got this, I believe in you, keep the faith, and fight for what you believe in,’” said Lt. Gov. Antone. Her time working with Gov. Thomas was profound and serves as an example of what a strong woman leader should be. 

This year marks the first inaugural conference, and organizers will work to continue holding these for years to come. Their goal is to foster women to be come leaders within the Gila River Resorts & Casinos. And to also create a strong network for future generations of women. The inspiration and motto for the conference is, “Behind every successful woman, is a team of other successful women.”