Brave Women Project
is a Community
Our Story
Our Professional Footprint
By the Numbers
Brave Women Project launched in 2020 with a simple Skype meeting, addressing the professional isolation women faced as workplaces shifted and connection disappeared almost overnight. Since then, it has blossomed into a vibrant international community, connecting women across the U.S. and internationally through a blend of in-person events and monthly virtual gatherings.
Founded by Holly McIlwain, the project is rooted in the belief that women taking brave action and coming together to tackle challenges has always been essential to civilization.
We are a membership based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that supports women with programming and events focused on Relationships, Professional Development, Impact, and Wellness - guided by our 5 Es for life: Educate, Encourage, Engage, Empower, and Evolve. We provide women with the confidence, courage, and community to take brave action in their personal and professional lives.
The project has transformed into a powerful network of women who uplift each other with kindness and encouragement. Women are invited to join this community, where together, we are creating a lasting impact, celebrating shared successes and fostering continuous growth.
Our Vision:
Our vision is a world where women thrive through bravery, connection, and conscious leadership.
Our Mission:
We are creating a community where women embrace bravery and continuous growth built on unwavering support and meaningful connections.
Our Purpose:
We provide women with the confidence, courage, and community to take brave action in their personal and professional lives.
Our Values & Philosophy:
Our philosophy is centered around the 5 Es for Life, reflecting our values and commitment to holistic growth:
Educate through lifelong learning,
Empower with confidence,
Encourage with support,
Engage through connections, and
Evolve through transformation.
Our Goals:
We strive to empower a community of professional women through unparalleled encouragement, professional development opportunities, and peer-to-peer education to help members embrace bravery in all areas of their lives.
Our Motto:
Do one brave thing every day.
Membership Demographics:
Brave Women Project serves women primarily ages 30–70, with members spanning early career professionals, entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, corporate executives, creatives, and community advocates. Our membership reflects a wide range of industries and lived experiences, creating a rich, multi-generational community.
Professional Focus:
Our members include women in leadership, entrepreneurship, healthcare, education, finance, law, marketing, media, human services, and mission-driven organizations. Many are decision-makers, influencers, and emerging leaders seeking connection, visibility, and growth.
Impact Footprint:
Based in Western Pennsylvania, Brave Women Project’s reach continues to expand through virtual programming, regional partnerships, and collaborations with nonprofits, businesses, and community organizations committed to advancing women across multiple U.S. states, with a growing membership network that includes an international member in Israel.
1,500+ women reached
Through events, memberships, community initiatives, and collaborative programming.
100+ events held
Including virtual programs, in-person gatherings, leadership conversations, Diamond Dinners, Power Panels, and the annual Pillar Awards.
100's of volunteer hours
Contributed by board members, committee leaders, general members, event volunteers, and community partners.
50+ partnerships formed
With nonprofits, women-owned businesses, corporate sponsors, media partners, and community organizations.
1,000's of essential goods provided
Through member-led donations - reducing financial barriers for nonprofit partners and community initiatives.