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Join us on September 25 at Four Winds South Bend for the 8th Annual YP Summit! Built by YPs for YPs, the YP Summit is a regional, deep-dive, half-day, professional development conference for young adults, ages 21-39, presented by YPN South Bend, a program of the South Bend Regional Chamber. Experience an unparalleled blend of insights, connections, and excitement as this year's Summit raises the bar with even more enriching content, networking opportunities, and enjoyable moments. 

The Summit agenda is carefully curated to cater to your needs, bringing you expert insights from thought leaders and advisors in various pivotal areas. Delve into impactful discussions and exchange ideas that will empower your journey. Every aspect of the event is meticulously crafted by young professionals from the region who share your aspirations, ensuring the content resonates with your ambitions.

Connect, learn, and embrace the thrill of growth alongside your peers, all while absorbing valuable knowledge to enrich your professional journey. This is your chance to gain the tools you need, forge lasting connections, and most importantly, have a fantastic time!

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Registration & Lunch
Grab a bite, meet some new faces, and settle in.

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
YP Industry Roundtables 

Do you want to connect with other YPs in your field? Or maybe you're curious about exploring a different industry? These YP Industry Roundtables are your chance to dive into meaningful conversations, make real connections, and walk away with fresh ideas and inspiration.

When you register, you’ll choose the industry that matches your interests — like tech, media, education, wellness, and more. At the event, you’ll join a table full of like-minded peers, each led by a dynamic facilitator ready to spark great conversation and keep the energy flowing. With color-coded stickers and table signage, it’s easy to find your spot and jump right in. Get ready to meet new people, share your perspective, and leave with valuable insights you can actually use.

1:00 PM – 1:15 PM
Break
Recharge before the keynote kicks off.

1:15 PM – 2:15 PM
Keynote: Ashley King - CEO of Teams Rising 

Ashley is a transformational speaker, leadership strategist and experience designer who helps leaders and teams connect deeply. Lead intentionally and build cultures of belonging and excellence. She is CEO of Teams Rising, a former ghostwriter turned thought leader and a two-time cancer survivor—Ashley brings radical courage, personal insight, and purpose-driven leadership to every room she’s in. She knows success isn’t simply about strategy, it’s about how we show up, listen and lead. Her keynote, Lead Boldly, Tell Your Story, focuses on the power of storytelling to build communication skills, personal and professional branding, and leadership presence. It helps young professionals articulate their unique value and step into leadership with authenticity and impact.

2:15 PM – 2:30 PM
Break & Transition to Breakout Sessions

2:30 PM – 3:15 PM

Breakout 1 - Session 1

YPs Moving the Region Forward, sponsored by The Troyer Group 

Our region is evolving, and young professionals are playing a vital role in shaping its future. Join this engaging panel as they discuss the ways they and their organizations are contributing to the region’s growth and revitalization. From innovation and entrepreneurship to community leadership and economic trends, discover a range of perspectives on what’s driving change and how you can get involved. This session will be moderated by South Bend Regional Chamber President & CEO, Jeff Rea. Panelists include Kris Priemer, Founder of Momentum Entrepreneurship Hub, Austin Gammage, Director of Regional Development at the University of Notre Dame, Kristen Smole, VP of Economic Development at the Greater Elkhart Chamber, and Lainie Holland Adams, Director of Corporate Partnerships at LOGAN Community Resources, Inc. 

Breakout 1 - Session 2

Real Tools, Real Wellness 

Mental health is more than a buzzword; it’s a vital daily practice. In this session, Hannah Trader, Team Lead in Adult Case Management at Oaklawn Psychiatric Center, delivers practical tools and powerful strategies to help you manage stress, build resilience, and bring your best self to work, home, and every part of your life. Get ready to take charge of your well-being and thrive like never before.

Breakout 1 - Session 3

Podcast Like a Pro 

Podcasting isn’t just for celebrities, it’s one of the most powerful ways to build your brand, share your story, and connect with your community. In this lively, no-nonsense session, Jon Keur, Owner and Lead Audio Engineer at Wayfare Recording Co., will show you exactly how to get started fast. Discover budget-friendly gear that gets the job done, pro recording tips that make you sound amazing, and insider secrets to launch your podcast with confidence. Whether you’re kicking off a side hustle, leveling up your content, or just ready to share your unique voice, this is your ultimate crash course to podcast like a true pro.

3:15 PM – 3:30 PM

Break

3:30 PM – 4:15 PM

Breakout 2 - Session 1

AI in Action 

Experience AI in action during this interactive session featuring Logan Herzog, Executive Director of RISE, and Omodara Ogijo, Head of Technology at RISE, where practical, real-world applications take center stage. See live demonstrations of AI tools automating tasks, boosting creativity, and helping you reclaim valuable time. This is more than a talk — it’s a hands-on opportunity to learn time-saving strategies that can transform how you work.

Breakout 2 - Session 2 

Lead from Where You Are: Influence Without the Title

You don’t need a fancy title to make an impact. This session, presented by Tracy Kulwicki, Senior Associate Director of Admissions from the Mendoza College of Business at the University of Notre Dame, explores how to build influence, lead with confidence, and take initiative. Whether you're just starting out or stepping into bigger shoes. Learn how to lead from the middle and make your mark, right now.

Breakout 2 - Session 3

Financial Tools for Peace of Mind 

Financial stress is a common challenge, but it doesn’t have to take over your life. In this session, Jacob Alexander, Senior Market Development Manager with United Federal Credit Union, will introduce you to today’s banking and financial tools designed to help you regain control of your money and improve your mental well-being. From AI-powered apps to budgeting platforms and smart banking features, discover how technology can simplify your finances, reduce worry, and boost your confidence in making financial decisions. Learn practical ways to manage your money smarter so you can focus on what truly matters to you.

4:15 PM – 6:00 PM
After Party, sponsored by WE+YOU South Bend Elkhart Region
Unwind, connect, and celebrate with drinks, music, and good vibes.

Photography provided by Sharp Wilkinson

Registration includes:

• Entrance to the conference
• Lunch
• Content with take-home deliverables
• 1 drink ticket and appetizers at After Party
• Entry to win great prizes
• Opportunity to make impactful connections!

Registration: $120 per person for YPs, ages 21-39

REGISTER NOW
  

Questions?

Contact Jacee Wesolowski at
574-400-4002 or jwesolowski@sbrchamber.com for more information