The HER Experience to Empower Young Women Through Mentorship, Wellness, and Community

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Young women throughout the Washington metropolitan area will gather for an afternoon of empowerment, education, and connection during The HER Experience, a free wellness and personal development event created for girls ages 12 to 18.

The inaugural event will take place Saturday, August 29, 2026, from 1 to 5 p.m. at The Venue at 5800 in Seat Pleasant, Maryland. Doors will open at 12:45 p.m.

HER stands for Hardworking. Educated. Resilient. Three qualities the event seeks to encourage in every young woman who attends. Through panel discussions, interactive activities, mentorship opportunities, and community resources, The HER Experience will provide attendees with tools to strengthen their confidence, expand their knowledge, and prepare for their futures.

The event was founded by entrepreneur, hairstylist, content creator, and mother Kara Kelly, who also owns HappyKnapps. As a mother of three daughters, Kelly understands the importance of ensuring young women have access to supportive mentors, professional guidance, and spaces where they feel safe expressing themselves.

“The HER Experience was created to bridge the gap between young women and the mentors, professionals, and organizations that can help shape their future,” Kelly shared. “As a mother and entrepreneur, I recognized the importance of creating a safe, encouraging space where girls can build confidence, explore opportunities, and connect with positive role models.”

A Community Investment in Young Women

The HER Experience will feature keynote speakers, licensed therapists, educators, entrepreneurs, financial professionals, and beauty and wellness experts. Local organizations will also be present to connect attendees and their families with helpful programs, services, and resources.

Kelly created the event as more than an afternoon gathering. Her vision is to develop a platform that continually reminds young women of their value while encouraging them to pursue their goals without limiting themselves.

“I am incredibly excited to bring The HER Experience to our community for the very first time,” Kelly said. “This event is about so much more than a single day—it is about planting seeds of confidence, purpose, and possibility in the lives of young women.”

Community partners and sponsors are helping bring the event to life through product donations, educational resources, professional services, and other forms of support.

“Seeing our community come together to invest in the next generation has been one of the most rewarding parts of this journey,” Kelly added. “I hope that every attendee leaves feeling empowered, supported, and inspired to pursue her dreams.”

Registration and VIP Access

General admission to The HER Experience is free with advance registration. All complimentary general admission reservations have currently been claimed.

A limited number of VIP tickets remain available for $50. VIP admission includes exclusive gifts, premium seating, and additional experiences throughout the event.

Event Details

What: The HER Experience
When: Saturday, August 29, 2026
Time: 1–5 p.m.; doors open at 12:45 p.m.
Where: The Venue at 5800, 5800 Martin Luther King Jr. Highway, Seat Pleasant, Maryland
Admission: Free general admission is fully reserved; limited VIP tickets are available for $50