What does it really take to survive—and thrive—when life doesn’t go according to plan?

The Women’s Leadership Upstate Conference is excited to welcome Holly Hoffman as our 2027 keynote speaker.

Holly was the last woman standing and the last remaining member of the Espada Tribe on Season 21 of CBS’ Survivor: Nicaragua. But her story of survival extends far beyond reality television.

Through that experience and the challenges she has faced throughout her life, Holly discovered that overcoming adversity is not simply about getting through difficult circumstances. It is also an opportunity to discover who you are, what you are capable of, and how you choose to move forward.

As a professional motivational speaker, Holly encourages audiences to focus their thoughts, emotions, and energy on what they can control. Her message challenges us to step outside our comfort zones, push beyond self-imposed limitations, and recognize the strength we already carry within us.

Holly is the author of Your Winner Within, Write Yourself a Note, and Three Step Stride. She holds the prestigious Certified Speaking Professional designation and speaks to corporations, associations, universities, schools, and women’s organizations across the country and internationally.

At the 2027 Women’s Leadership Upstate Conference, Holly will share her experiences and encourage us to consider how we choose to “survive” the challenges we encounter every day. Through her message, attendees will explore the attitudes and skills that help us face uncertainty, persevere through adversity, and keep moving forward with purpose.

It is a message that fits naturally with this year’s theme, Leadership Over Luck. Because while we cannot always choose the challenges in front of us, we can choose how we meet them.

Join us March 17, 2027, at the Little River Multicultural Complex in Hodges, South Carolina.

Come ready to be challenged, encouraged, and reminded of what may already be within you.