Blind Professionals Network: Professional Empowerment Conference
Theme:
Building the Foundation for Transformative Action
Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Lighthouse of Houston: 3602 W. Dallas St., Houston, Texas
Conference Agenda
Morning Sessions: Foundations and Strategy
8:00 AM to 8:45 AM: Registration, Breakfast, and Professional Pre-conference Networking
8:45AM to 9:15AM: Opening welcome, acknowledgements and Introductions
9:15 AM to 9:45AM: Keynote Speaker: Denise Caldwell
9:50AM to 10:00AM: Door Prize Drawing
10:00AM to 10:30AM: Public Speaking Workshop: Mastering the Mic: Everyday Public Speaking for Blind Professionals.
10:30AM to 10:45AM: Break and Door Prize Giveaway
10:45AM to 11:15AM: BVI Professional Journey Panel: From Vision to Reality: Stories of Transformative Career Paths.
11:15AM to 11:20AM Door Prize Giveaway
11:20AM to 11:50 AM: Pitch Perfect Workshop: The 60-Second Transformation: Crafting Your Ultimate Elevator Pitch.
11:50PM to 12:00PM: Door Prize Drawing
12:00PM to 12:30PM: Speed Networking Activity: The Lightning Connection: Rapid Professional Engagement.
12:30 to 1:30PM: Networking Luncheon
Afternoon Sessions: Specialized Skills and Engagement
1:30 PM to 2:00 PM: The Career Blueprint Workshops (Concurrent Tracks)
2:00 to 2:05: Door Prize Giveaway
2:05 PM to 2:30PM: Innovation Spotlight: The Tactile Edge (HapWare)
2:30 PM to 2:35PM: Door Prize Giveaway
2:35 PM to 2:55PM: Accessible Document Advocacy: Unlocking PDFs.
2:55 PM Ending with: Program closing, Door Prize Giveaway and Expo introduction.
3:00 PM to 5:00 PM: Resource Expo and Career Fair
Conference Session Descriptions
Welcome to the heart of the Professional Empowerment Conference, where we move from vision to implementation. These sessions are carefully curated around our theme, "Building the Foundation for Transformative Action," offering a mix of strategic insights and practical skills designed to elevate your professional trajectory.
Morning Sessions: Foundations and Strategy
BPN Keynote Address 9:15 AM to 9:45AM
Title: The Visionary Professional: Redefining Capability in the Modern Workforce.
Keynote Speaker: Denise Caldwell
Description: Exploring the unique competitive advantages blind professionals bring—resilience, creative problem-solving, and adaptive leadership. A discussion on becoming the primary architects of your career path.
Public Speaking Workshop 10:00AM to 10:30AM
Title: Mastering the Mic: Everyday Public Speaking for Blind Professionals.
Presenter: Loria Lofton
Description: Focused on vocal projection, structural clarity, and body language for meetings and presentations.
BVI Professional Journey Panel 10:45AM to 11:15AM
Title: From Vision to Reality: Stories of Transformative Career Paths.
Description: A diverse panel of successful blind professionals share their trajectories, hurdles, and "golden rules" for long-term success.
- Panelist 1: Victoria Herrera
- Panelist 2: Robe Evans
- Panelist 3: Amanda Matheny
Pitch Perfect Workshop 11:20AM to 11:50 AM
Title: The 60-Second Transformation: Crafting Your Ultimate Elevator Pitch.
Description: A fast-paced workshop to refine your personal brand and value proposition before the networking events.
Presenters: The BPN Team
Speed Networking Activity 12:00PM to 12:30PM
Title: The Lightning Connection: Rapid Professional Engagement.
Description: A high-energy, structured activity to facilitate rapid-fire introductions with peers and recruiters.
Networking Luncheon 12:30to 1:30PM
Description: Deeper conversations over a seated lunch to follow up with connections made during speed networking.
Afternoon Sessions: Specialized Skills and Engagement
The Career Blueprint Workshops 1:30PM to 2:00PM (Concurrent Tracks)
Track 1: The Competitive Edge. Mastering Resumes, Interviews, and Accommodations. Focuses on building a professional identity and framing accommodations as optimization tools.
Presenters: Gregory Roberts and Ava Caruth
Track 2: The Power Portfolio. Leveraging Your Professional Legacy for Executive Success. Designed for established professionals ready to transition into industry authorities using a Dynamic Professional Portfolio.
Presenter: Shirley McCoy
Innovation Spotlight 2:05PM to 2:30PM
Title” The Tactile Edge (HapWare).
Presenter: Jack Walters, Co-Founder and CEO
Description: Leveraging haptic technology for professional precision during interviews and networking.
Accessible Document Advocacy 2:35 PM to 2:55PM
Title” Unlocking PDFs.
Presenter: Steven Johnson
Description Techniques for accessing inaccessible documents and a roadmap for self-advocacy.
Resource Expo and Career Fair 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Title: The Marketplace of Opportunity and Support.
Description: Connect with hiring employers, browse assistive technology, and engage with vocational rehabilitation, transportation, and independent living resources.
Visit the Headshot Lounge
Get a high-quality professional photo taken for your LinkedIn profile or other career-related needs.
BPN Conference Sponsors
Thank You to Our Partners
Blind Professionals Network extends its deepest gratitude to the organizations listed below. Their generous sponsorship of the Professional Empowerment Conference demonstrates a powerful commitment to "Building the Foundation for Transformative Action."
Lighthouse of Houston
For 85 years, The Lighthouse of Houston has been a cornerstone of support, providing vital programs, services, and employment opportunities for the blind and low-vision community. Serving more than 25,000 individuals annually, the Lighthouse offers a comprehensive range of resources, including health services, youth and adult programming, independent apartment living, and specialized technology and employment training.
We are incredibly grateful to The Lighthouse of Houston for their generous sponsorship and for providing the facilities that have made this conference possible. Their commitment to the community is reflected in their own workforce, where nearly 52% of employees are blind or visually impaired. By fostering communities of belonging and providing accessible resources, they remain dedicated to their mission: to enable and empower people who are blind low vision to realize their full potential.
Guided by a vision of a "life without limits," The Lighthouse of Houston continues to be a leader in promoting well-being, learning, and professional development. We thank them for their partnership and their unwavering dedication to fostering independence and inclusion.
Learn more:
Website: www.HoustonLighthouse.org
Hapware
Hapware is a pioneering technology company dedicated to empowering individuals who are blind, low-vision, or neurodivergent to navigate social interactions with greater ease and autonomy. Through their innovative, patent-pending haptic feedback wristband, ALEYE, and integrated smart glasses, Hapware translates complex non-verbal social signals—such as facial expressions, body language, and emotional sentiment—into intuitive vibration patterns delivered subtly and in real time.
We are deeply grateful to Hapware for their generous financial sponsorship and their commitment to enhancing social accessibility in the workplace, at school, and at home. Their cutting-edge approach to assistive technology provides users with the tools for confident, autonomous engagement in every area of life.
By bridging the gap in non-verbal communication, Hapware is at the forefront of creating a more inclusive world where social signals are accessible to all. We thank them for their vital contribution to this year’s conference and for their dedication to professional and personal empowerment through technological innovation.
Learn more:
Website: www.hapware.com
Shabang Catering
The Shabang Catering is a Houston based catering brand known for delivering bold flavor, elevated presentation, and unforgettable dining experiences. Founded by Chef Doneishia Johnson, the brand was built on a passion for transforming everyday meals into refined, memorable moments where comfort food meets a modern, upscale touch.
Specializing in signature pastas, savory entrees, and thoughtfully curated menus, The Shabang Catering is committed to quality, creativity, and in every detail. Each event is approached with intention, ensuring that every guest not only enjoys the food but experiences it.
From intimate gatherings to upscale events, Chef Doneishia Johnson brings a level of professionalism, care, and flavor that sets her brand apart. More than catering, The Shabang Catering creates experiences that leave a lasting impression.
We are honored to be a part of this event and look forward to serving you.
For future bookings and collaborations, please feel free to connect.
Chef Doe: shabangculinary@gmail.com
Perfect Property Group - eXp Realty
Perfect Property Group - eXp Realty
A Houston native and a powerhouse in the local real estate market, Mia Romar is a Broker Associate with eXp Realty and the founder of Perfect Property Group. Since 2005, Mia has served Manvel, Pearland, Houston, and the surrounding areas with a reputation for trusted service and knowledgeable guidance. With over $164 million in career sales volume, she specializes in residential listings, luxury homes, estate sales, and new construction.
We are sincerely grateful to Mia Romar and Perfect Property Group for their generous financial sponsorship of this year’s conference. Mia’s unique background as a former oil and gas engineer brings a level of technical precision and analytical strength to her pricing and negotiations that set her apart in the industry. Her commitment to excellence is further evidenced by her numerous professional designations, including CNE, CDPE, and CRS, and her hundreds of five-star reviews from satisfied clients.
Leading a dedicated five-member team, Mia is committed to helping her clients navigate the complexities of the real estate market with confidence and clarity. We thank her for her vital support of the BPN community and for her dedication to professional empowerment and excellence.
Learn more:
Website: www.MiaRomarHomes.com
K. Lazor Photography
A visionary artist and storyteller, Kristie Filina-Lazor is a photographer dedicated to capturing the world through a lens of emotion and deep connection. Since discovering her passion for the craft as a teenager, Kristie has used photography to interpret the beauty of the world in ways that transcend traditional sight, proving that true creativity is defined by how one feels and observes.
We are honored to have Kristie as a sponsor for this year’s conference, where she is generously donating her time and expertise to provide professional headshots for our attendees. Currently pursuing her Bachelor’s degree at the University of Houston, Kristie uses her work to challenge societal perceptions of visual impairment, demonstrating that disability is never a limitation to artistic expression or professional excellence.
Through her mission-driven photography, Kristie aims to promote inclusion and empower others to pursue their passions without limitation. We thank her for her commitment to the BPN community and for helping our members present their best professional selves to the world.
Kristie Filina-Lazor: k.lazor.photography@gmail.com
Additional Empowering
- Central Market
- Olive Garden
- Starbucks
- Taco Cabana
- Host Hotel: The Team at The Courtyard by Marriot Westchase
Directory of Program Participants
Inclusive Employers
The organizations featured in this section represent more than just potential career paths; they are leaders in the movement toward a truly accessible workforce. These Inclusive Employers have distinguished themselves by actively removing barriers and cultivating environments where blind and visually impaired professionals can lead and succeed.
We invite you to connect with their representatives to learn about their inclusive hiring initiatives, professional development programs, and the culture of belonging they are building. These employers recognize that diverse perspectives are the foundation for transformative action, and they are here because they value the talent and expertise you bring to the table.
CN Vision Image Consulting, LLC
Lighthouse of Houston
IFB Solutions
National Industries for the Blind
NSITE
Meet Our Exhibitors
Step through our exhibit hall to discover a curated selection of industry leaders, innovative service providers, and advocacy organizations. Each exhibitor at the Professional Empowerment Conference has been chosen for their alignment with our mission to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity.
Empowering Professional Products & Services
Empowering Resources & Agency Outreach
- Disability Rights Texas
- Dreams Elite Social
- Living Beyond Limits
- Texas Workforce Commission-Vocational Rehabilitation Services
- The Seeing Eye
Speaker and Presenter Bio’s
Master of Ceremonies (MC):
A bold, faith-driven leader and visionary, Danara Barlow is the founder of Sight Beyond Vision, a coaching and personal development brand dedicated to helping individuals and teams lead with clarity, confidence, and intention. Danara’s extensive academic background includes a Master’s degree in Leadership and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, complemented by professional certifications in Business and HR Management.
In addition to her role as a federal contracting professional, Danara is a sought-after speaker and workshop facilitator. She leads transformational conversations on critical topics such as personal branding, boundary-setting, and intentional living. As a visually impaired professional, she brings a powerful, authentic perspective to every stage, using her lived experience to challenge limiting beliefs and empower others to shift their mindsets toward purposeful action.
Known for her ability to infuse any room with both depth and energy, Danara is committed to creating spaces where people feel truly seen and equipped to succeed. Her core philosophy, that perspective is power—serves as a catalyst for those ready to see beyond their limitations and unlock new dimensions of personal and professional leadership.
Keynote Speaker: Denise Chinn Caldwell
Our keynote speaker, Denise Chinn Caldwell, is a dedicated leader, ordained children’s minister, and a relentless advocate for educational equity. As the Executive Director of Connect Ministry, Denise spearheads a vital mission within the Houston Metropolitan area, providing essential reading and math interventions to ensure underserved elementary students receive the tools necessary for lifelong academic success.
Under her leadership, Connect Ministry provides essential reading and math interventions, ensuring that students in high-need communities receive the foundational tools necessary for lifelong academic success. Her work is driven by a deep commitment to service and a belief that every child deserves access to a high-quality education, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Denise’s professional achievements are matched by her profound personal resilience. Navigating life and leadership as a woman who is blind, she has mastered the art of overcoming obstacles, refusing to let any barrier impede her path to success. Her journey is defined by a steadfastly positive perspective, viewing challenges not as stop signs, but as opportunities to innovate and inspire.
A devoted mother of two, Denise brings a heart for mentorship and community building to every project she touches. Her life serves as a powerful testament to the fact that vision is not defined by sight, but by the courage to pursue one's goals. Her leadership continues to spark systemic change, proving that with faith and determination, there is no limit to what one can achieve.
Presenter Bio’s
Loria Lofton
A distinguished leader in the field of mental health, Loria Lofton is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and a state-approved supervisor. As the Owner and Clinical Director of INBESI Counseling & Life Care, PLLC, she leads a private practice dedicated to providing comprehensive behavioral health services and high-level clinical supervision throughout the state of Texas.
Loria’s commitment to professional excellence is driven by a deep-seated love for people and a genuine desire to see every individual reach their full potential. This passion for personal development is a hallmark of her work, motivating her to constantly encourage and assist others as they navigate their own paths to growth.
Beyond her clinical practice, Loria has achieved Competent Communicator status through Toastmasters International, Inc., showcasing her dedication to effective leadership and public speaking. By blending her clinical expertise with a heart for mentorship, she continues to create vital spaces for healing and empowerment, embodying the spirit of service within the professional community.
Ava Carruth
With over 32 years of dedicated service, Ava Carruth is a cornerstone of the blind rehabilitation and advocacy community in Houston, Texas. A retired Vision Rehabilitation Therapist, Ava combines her lived experience of more than 35 years as a legally blind individual with deep professional expertise to provide compassionate guidance and practical training for those navigating sight loss.
Ava’s academic background is a testament to her commitment to excellence, holding a Double Master’s Degree from Western Michigan University in Rehabilitation Counseling and Rehabilitation Teaching, alongside degrees in Business Management and Fashion Management. Her specialized knowledge in blind rehabilitation and assistive technology has allowed her to deliver individualized training that empowers clients to regain independence and master activities of daily living.
A recognized leader and advocate, Ava has received prestigious honors, including the DKM Leadership Award and a feature in Who’s Who for Professional Women. She currently serves in multiple leadership capacities, including Second Vice President and Fundraising Chair for the Houston Council of the Blind, and as the Advocacy Chair for Visually Impaired Advocates – Houston. Through her continued leadership and mentorship, Ava remains a tireless champion for accessibility, inclusion, and the empowerment of others to live fulfilling, independent lives.
Gregory Roberts
A customer-focused professional with over 23 years of experience, Gregory Roberts has built a distinguished career delivering high-quality service across government, legal, and operational environments. Currently contributing to the team at Peckham, Gregory leverages his extensive background in process improvement and collaboration to support effective service delivery and continuous improvement initiatives.
Gregory’s professional journey includes eight years with the Internal Revenue Service, where he served as a Revenue Officer, managing complex casework and resolving sensitive financial matters. During this time, he also served as a Union Representative, advocating for workplace equity and facilitating vital communication between staff and leadership. His career is further bolstered by six years of experience as a Paralegal, where he developed a strong foundation in legal research and procedural accuracy.
Visually impaired since early childhood due to Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, Gregory is a passionate advocate for empowering individuals within the blind and visually impaired community. Having navigated his own obstacles in the workforce, he brings a deep, authentic understanding of the challenges related to employment. Gregory is a firm believer that with the right tools, skills, and resources, there are no limits to what blind professionals can achieve, and he remains dedicated to helping others reach their full potential.
Steven Johnson
A proud native Houstonian, Steven Johnson, has built a distinguished lifelong career at the intersection of music and technology. Since the mid-1980s, Steven has been a fixture in the creative community as a professional jazz musician, cultivating a deep passion for expression and artistic innovation.
In 2002, Steven transitioned his expertise into the field of assistive technology, beginning his journey by training medical transcriptionists in their homes for a major national firm. His dedication to digital accessibility eventually led him to World Services for the Blind, where he further refined his skills as an instructor. Since 2012, Steven has been a vital member of the Lighthouse of Houston team, serving as both a transcriptionist and an Assistive Technology Instructor.
BVI Professional Panel
Victoria Herrera
An advocate, entrepreneur, and dynamic speaker, Victoria Herrera is dedicated to fostering resilience and self-advocacy within the blind and visually impaired community. As the owner of Majestic Healing Hands, TX, Victoria has successfully operated her women’s therapeutic massage practice for 11 years, specializing in oncology massage and neuromuscular therapy. Her clinical, results-driven approach provides essential care for athletes and women seeking medically focused wellness.
Victoria’s entrepreneurial journey was born from a desire to break down workforce barriers and provide superior, flexible care for her clients. Beyond her practice, she is a committed leader, serving for four years with the Lions Club and holding leadership roles within her local NFB chapter. Victoria is also a passionate advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, serving as the co-host of the podcast The Shades of Pride with Vic and Rena, which provides a vital platform for discussions on identity and mental health.
Currently pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice, Victoria continues to blend her lived experience with professional expertise. Her story is a powerful testament to the impact of strategic networking and personal drive, proving that challenges are simply opportunities to create new paths for oneself and others.
Robe Evans
Originally from Brooklyn, New York, and now a resident of Houston, Texas, Robe Evans brings a wealth of resilience and professional expertise to our community. Robee’s journey is defined by a remarkable 33-year tenure with the federal government, where he demonstrated exceptional career growth—advancing from a Grade 3 Clerk to his current role as a Grade 13 Officer/Analyst within the same agency.
Beyond his professional achievements, Robe is a multifaceted creative. In hist former life, he was a professional comedian, sharing the stage with icons such as Tracy Morgan and Chris Rock. Today, he channels his creativity into music production, engineering, songwriting, and singing, alongside a passion for the culinary arts.
Robe story is one of perseverance and dedication. Despite facing significant vision challenges starting at age 16 and undergoing 67 eye operations, he has maintained a high-impact career and a vibrant creative life, embodying the spirit of professional empowerment.
Amanda Matheny
A seasoned human resource professional, Amanda Matheny brings over five years of specialized expertise in recruitment and talent acquisition to the BPN community. Amanda holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education and a Master’s degree in Human Resource Management from Western Governors University, complemented by several industry certifications that underscore her commitment to professional excellence.
Amanda’s unique perspective on workplace accessibility is informed by her lived experience with Leber Congenital Amaurosis. This insight fuels her passion for creating more inclusive and effective professional environments. Currently, she is channeling her extensive background into the launch of her own consulting business, which focuses on the intersection of human resources and accessibility.
Driven by a mission to empower both individuals and organizations, Amanda is dedicated to dismantling barriers in the workforce. Her journey highlights the vital role of education and specialized knowledge in building a career that advocates for meaningful organizational change and universal access.
Our Heartfelt Thanks to Our Volunteers
An event of this magnitude is only possible through the dedication, energy, and spirit of our incredible volunteer team. We extend our deepest gratitude to the individuals who stepped up to ensure the Professional Empowerment Conference ran smoothly and inclusively.
From guiding attendees and assisting with registration to providing technical support and behind-the-scenes logistics, your contributions have been the backbone of today’s success. Your commitment to the Blind Professionals Network mission—and to each of our attendees—reflects the very essence of community and transformative action. We are profoundly grateful for your time, your talent, and your heart.
To all volunteers: please know that your impact will be felt long after the final session concludes. Thank you for being part of the BPN family.
With Gratitude to Our Planning Committee
The Professional Empowerment Conference is the culmination of months of vision, meticulous strategy, and an unwavering commitment to our community. This day is as powerful and impactful as it is because of the relentless dedication of our planning committee, who worked tirelessly to ensure every detail serves the mission of "Building the Foundation for Transformative Action."
We wish to extend a special acknowledgement to these leaders for their heart, their late nights, and their collective expertise. Their coordination has turned an ambitious idea into a transformative reality for every professional in attendance today.
The BPN Conference Planning Committee
- Victoria Hillard
- Christina Ford
- Loria Lofton
- Brandon Scott
To Our BPN Members and the BVI Community
At the heart of Blind Professionals Network is a vibrant, resilient, and talented community. We want to take this moment to express our deepest appreciation to our members and the broader Blind and Visually Impaired (BVI) community. You are the reason we gather today, and your pursuit of excellence is what inspires every program we develop.
This conference is more than just an event; it is a testament to what we can achieve when we support one another and share our collective wisdom. To our members: thank you for your continued trust and engagement. To the BVI community at large: thank you for your courage in navigating professional landscapes and for the unique perspectives you bring to the workforce.
Your success is our success. We are honored to be on this journey with you as we continue to build a foundation for transformative action, together.
Why We Celebrate You
- Your Ambition: For setting high standards and proving that vision is not defined by sight.
- Your Support: For the way you mentor, encourage, and uplift fellow professionals within our network.
- Your Voice: For advocating for accessibility and inclusion, making the professional world better for those who follow.
“Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success.” — Henry Ford
About Blind Professionals Network (BPN)
Founded in 2019 by Victoria Hillard, Blind Professionals Network is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to uniting and empowering blind and visually impaired professionals.
Our mission is to break down employment barriers by providing the essential training, resources, and mentorship needed to thrive in any professional environment. We focus on equipping individuals across all industries and career stages with high-level professional development and a dynamic network that transforms employment challenges into catalysts for growth.
At BPN, we believe that financial burdens should never hinder professional excellence; therefore, all our programs, from specialized skill training to peer support groups, are provided free of charge. We are committed to ensuring every professional has the tools and expertise needed to achieve their full potential.
Learn more:
BPN Leadership & Staff
Blind Professionals Network is driven by a shared vision of empowerment and professional excellence, but it is the tireless work of our dedicated staff that brings this vision to life. This conference, and every initiative we launch, is the result of a collective effort by a team committed to breaking down barriers and building a foundation for transformative action.
Led by our Founder and Executive Director, Victoria Hillard, this team works behind the scenes year-round to advocate for inclusive workplace practices and provide high-impact resources for our community. We are incredibly proud of their dedication, creativity, and unwavering passion. Everything BPN achieves is only possible because of the hard work and commitment of this exceptional group.
- Christina Ford: Assistant executive Director
- Ariela Gonzalez: Finance Director
- Cynthia Fobbs: Membership Director
- Brandon Scott: Community Outreach Director
- Jad Wathier: Technology Director
- Tia Williams: Marketing Director
- Jean Parker: Events Manager
- Mark Peters: Assistive Technology Manager
A Note of Gratitude: To the BPN staff—thank you for your late nights, your innovative ideas, and your heart for service. You are the engine that drives our mission forward.
"Teamwork is the ability to work together toward a common vision. The ability to direct individual accomplishments toward organizational objectives. It is the fuel that allows common people to attain uncommon results." — Andrew Carnegie