There are moments where I can feel something meaningful taking shape in real time, and Confluence was one of those. Over a few days, what started as a gathering of women from all over, each bringing different backgrounds and perspectives, became something deeper. People showed up fully, shared openly, and built connections in a way that felt both grounding and invigorating. It felt like stepping into something that was already building. Even just sitting in a room full of conversation, I could still hear it. Little plans coming together, people already talking about future get-togethers beyond this weekend, and how to support each other. I don’t always know exactly what those plans are or what they’ll turn into, but I leave feeling energized by that forward movement, and looking forward to the next time we all come together again. 

This weekend brought together women from 16 states (plus Mexico) for a multi-day, in-person gathering centered around land stewardship, livestock, and community. Our time moved between hands-on learning, shared meals, dancing with the wonderful Diane Anastasio, and long conversations that ranged from grazing practices and animal health to bookkeeping, identity, and purpose. We also had the opportunity to learn from an incredible group of speakers and contributors who came from all over the world sharing both technical knowledge and personal experience from their work on the land. 

I was blown away by how many of you showed up. Whether it was your first time or you came knowing a few familiar faces, there’s something about putting yourself out there and walking up to someone new, or introducing yourself to someone you’ve only known from afar. That kind of openness doesn’t go unnoticed. This is what being brave looks like too. It’s at the heart of Women in Ranching. holding brave space, supporting courageous action, and championing women’s leadership on the land. And I know this is something we truly captured over those few days together. 

By the end of the weekend, there was a shared feeling that something had shifted. New friendships formed, old ones deepened, and conversations that will carry forward beyond these few days. As one participant shared, “I came in unsure of where I fit and left feeling like I belong.” That sense of belonging, and the reminder that none of us are doing this work alone, felt like one of the most meaningful takeaways of all.