Over 500 young women gather for empowerment event in Newton, Massachusetts

NEWTON, Mass. —

Massachusetts' only female district attorney hosted a conference in Newton on Wednesday to spread a message of encouragement for over 500 young women.

The theme for the day is best summarized by a quote from the late US Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg: "Women belong in all places where decisions are being made."

Speakers at the event included women from politics, law and law enforcement. District Attorney Marian Ryan and the others hoped to inspire and connect young women to their potential.

"We have over 500 young women here from across the county. Think about the impact that you are going to have," Ryan said.

"Going into that room and seeing how many women are here today, it's really cool to see," said Olivia Gould, a senior at Marlboro High School.

Stacey Kiarie, a sophomore at Greater Lowell Technical, found the event "super inspirational," noting that hearing from women in person changed her mindset.

"Things are mostly male-dominated, so it's good to see women doing good things," said Kylie Stephen, a freshman at Reading Memorial High School.

Because of the popularity of the event, Ryan said it could expand to be held twice next year.

"I want them to understand how valuable they are," she said. "All of these folks took time to be with them today and to leave here with skills and strategies that will help them to put their dream or their passion in play."

https://www.wcvb.com/article/marian-ryan-young-women-conference-2025/646...