UCI hosts women’s conference

UC Irvine will host the eighth annual Women’s Journey Conference on Saturday, a day full of inspirational speeches by leading women.

Rep. Loretta Sánchez will lead a discussion on female empowerment, speaking with at-risk girls about issues she’s faced, such as pay discrimination, human trafficking, sexual assault in the military and reproductive liberties.

All proceeds from the conference go to fund the conference’s Self-Esteem Program for at-risk girls.

“For me, self-belief was learned over time, and I was fortunate in that, when I was encouraged to try things, I often succeeded,” Sánchez said in her book “Dream in Color: How the Sánchez Sisters Are Making History in Congress,” according to a press release.

Actress and author Mariel Hemingway will be the keynote speaker. She’s written “Healthy Living from the Inside Out: Every Woman’s Guide to Real Beauty, Renewed Energy, and a Radiant Life.”

Gloria Loring, from “Days of Our Lives,” will speak at the event along with comedienne Suzanne Whang. Co-author of “Rich Dad, Poor Dad,” Sharon Lechter, will speak on financial literacy.

For more information, contact Patty Turrell at (714) 754-7399 or visit womensjourneyconference.com. Admission is free for girls aged 8-18 with an adult.

—Joanna Clay