ELGL has partnered with the Northwest Women’s Leadership Academy, Oregon to support and promote their 2019 cohort! To support the program and efforts, ELGL has extended complimentary membership to the women participating in the NWWLA 2019 cohort.
ELGL is profiling the NWWLA participants to grow their local government network, and showcase their resumes, work experiences, and perspectives.
Sasha Konell
Community Branding Specialist, City of Gresham
Why were you interested in participating in NWWLA?
Initially, my interest was to connect with other women in government and to elevate my leadership skills. After just my first session, my eyes were opened to the potential of my future path in local government.
What advice do you have for women considering local government as a career?
Have faith in yourself! I know that sounds so cliche, but it is so incredibly important in this field. Your ideas as a woman, as a creator, as a leader, as an influencer, as a driver for change- they all matter and they are all so valued. Work hard, be kind and know your worth!
How can local government organizations advance and support women leaders?
Support women, at ALL levels, in local government by providing education opportunities like the NWWLA, conferences, and other continued education.
If you could only drink one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?
An iced americano with cream and half the white chocolate from Country Coffee.
About the NWWLA:
The NWWLA’s goal is to advance women from a variety of backgrounds in local government into leadership roles. Women have been, and are, underrepresented in the profession.
Building a professional support network and addressing issues that are unique to women in the profession are necessary to address this imbalance.
The NWWLA includes six day-long sessions presented by recognized public sector leaders and hosted by jurisdictions in the Portland Metro. Topics include: Cultural Inclusion, Land Use in Oregon, Process Improvement, and more.