What’s up, y’all?! I’m still on a HUGE high from this year’s Summit 21. I came home inspired and ready to take on the rest of the year. First, I’d like to send a huge THANK YOU to Barefoot Wine for making me a part of their 2019 Slay Team and inviting me down for a weekend of fun and networking. 

I learned how to take my brand to the next level with an online course or workshop. I listened to Mrs. Maxine Waters pour into us the importance of voting and learning more about the candidates. I heard one of my faves, Mrs. Tina Knowles Lawson, explain the new Girl Code, discuss the importance of collecting Black art, and remind us that we should all be giving back. Needless to say, your girl is full! Full of light, full of joy, and full of inspiration. There’s nothing like being in a room with hundreds of like-minded women who just want to take themselves to the next level. 

I was excited to spend some much needed girl time with my friend Janna, but I also made so many business connections, met new people, and made real life connections with some of my all time social media faves. All-in-all, Summit21 was an incredible experience! I have PAGES full of notes and I’m ready to take Melissa Chanel to new heights! Y’all coming with me? 
If you weren’t able to attend, no worries; here are 5 Things I Learned at this year’s Summit 21 Conference. 


Ready? 


Auntie Maxine Taught Me 
When deciding on which presidential candidate or elected official you want to support, ask some important questions: Do they have someone (a PAID person, not a volunteer) on their campaign that looks like me and is speaking to the critical voting age range of 18-25? If not, they aren’t the candidate for you. 


Danielle Leslie Taught Me
All about T.A.S.T.Y Content! When creating an online course, speak your truth and tell your story! Your online course or workshop should be T.A.S.T.Y.: T. – Teaches, A. – Action Steps, S.- Solves an urgent pain, T. – Transforms, and Y. – Addresses their “why”


Nichole Lynel Taught Me
Do it First or Do it Better. There’s always space to carve your own lane! Simply raise your flag confidently and your tribe will find you!


Morgan Johnson Taught Me
When you’re getting to the bag, go where the growth is. Opportunity is all around us, we just have to tap into it! Also, you don’t have to have a specific title to lead. We’re all leaders in our own right, and need to walk confidently into leadership roles despite given titles. Don’t be afraid to have uncomfortable conversations, and ALWAYS track your work! 
And last, but not least… 


Mrs. Tina Knowles-Lawson Taught Me
You can’t imagine what you’ve never seen. Have a designated space where you can fuel your dream. Create a NEW Girl Code that inspires and uplifts instead of one that compares and breaks each other down. Black art is one of the best investments you can ever make. Always give back to your community because it always comes back to you ten fold.

If you weren’t able to attend this year, no worries! They’re taking Summit 21 on the road, and their first stop is LA. Head over now for an early bird ticket


If you want more in-the-moment content, check out my events highlight on Instagram. 

Day 1 Outfit Details: Top and Pants (options): Zara | Sneakers: Nike

Day 2 Outfit Details: Dress: Urban Outfitters (I’m wearing a large)| Sneakers: Puma (go up a half size in this style)


Until next time,