Social advocate, change agent and author of "Warrior Rising" MaryAnne Howland shares her stories of mentorship, community and accountability while raising a son as a single mom and launching a business. From having confidence & gumption to seeking mentors with a network, & practicing intentional parenting, MaryAnne's experiences teaches us what it means to be a global citizen.

About Maryanne Howland

As a storyteller for social change and a facilitator for open dialogue that elevates human value, dignity and respect Howland released her memoir Warrior Rising: How Four Men Helped a Boy on His Journey to Manhood, and launched BlackMitzvah.org to open a national conversation on the importance of rites of passage, mentorship, and intentional parenting.

Her purpose driven career stands firmly on inclusive communication to help to build bridges, spark relationships and encourage collaboration that inspires transformative change that improves the lives and wellbeing of all of us.

She is Founder and CEO of Ibis Communications, an branding and marketing solutions firm based in Nashville, Tennessee. In 2012 at the New York Stock Exchange, she launched the Global Diversity Leadership Exchange a leadership development forum designed to facilitate an on-going dialogue with thought leaders, influencers and C-Suite executives advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in the US and global markets.

A recipient of many awards including Nashville Business Journal Women of Influence Award Winner, the distinguished Spirit Award from the Nashville Chamber of Commerce and a Working Mother magazine’s Advertising Working Mother of the Year, Howland considers her highest honor, raising her son to be a compassionate, and creative social athlete who embraces the role of being a man with dignity and grace.