Redefining Leadership: Highlights from the NBMBAA Women in Leadership Series

Women’s Leadership Series Part 1

Opening Reflections from the NBMBAA San Francisco Chapter Women in Leadership Summit; Held at Merritt Community College | Opening Remarks by Chapter President Myiesha Robertson

The summit opened with a spirit of inspiration and unity. President Myiesha Robertson of the San Francisco Chapter of the National Black MBA Association set the tone with grace and intention. The powerful momentum began with a video message from Congresswoman Lateefah Simon, who reminded us that to lift as we climb is not just a mantra but a matter of purpose. Her words ushered in a day devoted to truth, power, and thriving leadership.

Then came the unforgettable opening keynote from California State Controller Malia Cohen, who brought a refreshing blend of humor, honesty, and wisdom to the stage. As she shared her truth, she embodied the spirit of authentic leadership—especially in how she framed motherhood as a continuous dance of patience, balance, and sacrifice. No matter what seat we occupy in our careers, we still show up at home. Her story echoed the famous sentiment from Indra Nooyi, former CEO of PepsiCo, who was once asked: Can women really have it all? Her answer: Yes, but not all at the same time.

Malia made history as the first Black woman to serve as California State Controller—a role of great responsibility, overseeing the ethical management of state funds in the fourth-largest economy in the world. Her work embodies transparency, fiscal accountability, and public trust.

Among the practical gems she shared, one stood out: the importance of checking for unclaimed property through your state controller’s office. In 2024 alone, California returned $464 million in unclaimed property—that’s over $1 million a day. Her advice? Don’t just check your own name—check everyone in your family. Even your ex-husband’s. (Yes, we laughed too.)

But it wasn’t just her policy insight that struck a chord. It was her take on bold leadership—not just being in the room but owning the space, especially when you’re the only woman, the only Black woman, or the one wearing natural hair. Boldness isn’t always loud. Sometimes it’s in how you move through the storm quietly while still making an impact. For Malia, bold leadership means stepping into rooms that weren’t designed for you and redefining the design.

She reminded us that it’s okay to fail forward, and that not everyone is meant to serve you on your journey. But you must still show up, speak up, and lead anyway. “I know who I am, I know what I stand for, and I know what I need to lead,” she affirmed.

When she spoke of radical resistance, she shifted our focus to resilience—the moments that knock us down, the weight that feels unbearable. But leadership isn’t about pushing through blindly. It’s about honoring your limits, asking for help, and reclaiming your power with intention. And most of all, knowing that your power should never be rooted in ego—because power built on ego will not stand.

She reminded us that leadership doesn’t always look like headlines or stages. Quiet leadership—the kind that takes place in staff meetings, community summits, or behind the scenes—is equally powerful. Her leadership shows up in how she advocates for women-owned small businesses, how she mentors her team, and how she wields emotion as a superpower, not a weakness.

Malia’s staff describes her as the lioness—fierce, focused, and protective. But more than that, she is a leader deeply rooted in her lineage. She draws strength from her ancestors, her family, her colleagues, and the communities she serves.

She left us with a powerful message: Celebrate the progress you’ve yet to make. Shine as you rise. Be the nurturing spirit for someone else.

This summit was not just an event; it was a call to action. A reminder that we lead not only through titles and roles but through intention, values, and service. We were invited to embrace the power of community, to support one another, and to lead with both purpose and passion.

As we reflect on this incredible kickoff to the Women’s Leadership Series, let us carry with us the lessons Malia Cohen so generously shared:

• Show up even when you’re the only one like you in the room.
• Redefine the spaces that weren’t built for you.
• Embrace failure as part of growth.
• Honor your boundaries and ask for help when needed.
• Lead with emotional intelligence—your heart is part of your power.
• Shine as you rise, and lift someone else along the way.

With women like Malia Cohen leading by example, the future of leadership is not just promising—it’s powerful, unapologetic, and deeply rooted in purpose.

Pam McElvane, CEO, Author & Publisher, P&L Group

#WomenInLeadership #BoldLeadership #NBMBAA