On January 19, Dr. Renée Baker served as keynote speaker for Junior Achievement’s 3DE EmpowerHER event, an inspiring morning dedicated to investing in the next generation of female leaders.
The event brought together 45 ambitious 11th-grade young women from eight 3DE high schools across the Bay Area. Designed as an interactive leadership experience, EmpowerHER connected students with female CEOs and executives who are shaping the future of business and innovation.
During a dynamic fireside chat, Dr. Baker shared her personal journey from corporate executive to entrepreneur and CEO, offering candid insights on leadership, resilience, and building confidence before external validation arrives. She spoke about the realities of navigating high-performance environments, the importance of self-belief, and the discipline required to turn vision into tangible results.
In addition to delivering the keynote conversation, Dr. Baker engaged directly with students as they refined and presented entrepreneurial ideas in preparation for their upcoming Market Expo. She provided thoughtful feedback and encouraged them to think strategically, communicate clearly, and lead boldly.
“Leadership is not about titles. It is about ownership,” Dr. Baker shared with attendees. “The earlier you understand your value, the more intentionally you can shape your future.”
The morning served as a powerful reminder of the impact that access, mentorship, and representation have on young women stepping into their potential. Dr. Baker remains committed to creating spaces where emerging leaders are equipped with both confidence and clarity as they pursue their goals.
Junior Achievement’s 3DE EmpowerHER event continues to serve as a catalyst for opportunity, innovation, and bold thinking among high school students across the region.
