A Woman’s Worth: Empowerment, Connection, and Inspiration in Atlanta
There are moments in life that remind you of the power of resilience, the beauty of community, and the magic that happens when women come together with intention. A Woman’s Worth, featuring Erica Elle Miller, an author, motivational speaker, and career coach at The Starling Midtown Hotel in Atlanta, GA, was one of those unforgettable moments. An afternoon infused with inspiration, authenticity, and raw storytelling, it set the perfect tone for Women's History Month—one of power, connection, and purpose.
From the moment Erica took the stage, it was clear that this was no ordinary event. As the author of Gumbo: Ingredients of Being a Woman, she poured her heart into every word, sharing her journey of young motherhood, her time at Tennessee State University as a double major juggling multiple jobs, and the life-changing experience of meeting Les Brown—her dream come true. She also opened up about a deeply personal tragedy: losing her mother at just six years old. She recalled the moment she and her sister, not understanding the reality of death, tried to wake their mother when they heard her favorite song, Real Love by Mary J. Blige, playing. The trauma of that loss shaped her, but so did the love she later received when she reached out to the church, who wrapped her in support and created a Mother’s Circle to nurture her.
She spelled out her name—ERICA—with purpose:
E – Expand your vision.
R – Relationships matter.
I – Invest in yourself.
C – Commit yourself.
A – Appreciate what you have.
Simple yet profound, these words became a blueprint for transformation, a recipe for resilience that resonated deeply with every woman in the room.
But Erica wasn’t the only powerhouse in the building. The panel of dynamic women—Syndy B., Nichole Humphrey, and Anne-Marie Nunziota—delivered wisdom that hit like a perfectly seasoned dish. They spoke on the art of making meaningful connections as adults, the delicate balance (or harmony) of life, the courage to transform in the face of fear, and the importance of always having a backup ingredient in your arsenal. They reminded us to celebrate even the smallest steps forward and, most importantly, that we are never alone.
The event was a sensory delight. The room was warm with sisterhood, the air electric with encouragement. From delicious finger foods to a signature drink adorned with edible rose petals, every detail was designed to make us feel seen, valued, and uplifted.
Then came the Pass the Recipe session, a heart-stirring moment of spontaneous sisterhood. Five women, myself included, were called to the stage without knowing why. We introduced the incredible women we had met, showered them with affirmations, and gifted them a pink journal—a symbol of their ongoing journey. It was a powerful exchange of love, support, and the unbreakable bond of womanhood. And as a final touch, every woman left with a beautiful flower arrangement, a tangible reminder of the seeds planted that afternoon.
The AKA sisterhood was in full swing, wrapping Erica in a powerful embrace of support, and it was beautiful to witness. The Starling Midtown Hotel, committed to fostering empowerment and community, was the perfect backdrop for this unforgettable gathering. From complimentary parking to the vibrant energy of the DJ, to the incredible prizes—including a one-night stay at the hotel—every element was thoughtfully curated to make this afternoon one to remember.
As I reflect on this experience, one thing is clear: Women's History Month could not have started on a more powerful note. This wasn’t just an event—it was a movement, a call to action, a reminder that we are all ingredients in a divine recipe of greatness. And with the right mix of faith, resilience, and community, we can cook up something truly extraordinary.
Reflecting on Erica’s Gumbo reminded me of my own first book of poetry, Life of A Woman Authenticating Complexity, which I published in August of 2015. It’s amazing to think that nearly a decade has passed since my first self-published work. That book was a declaration of my love for poetry, my commitment to writing, and my passion for empowering women. This event reinforced the importance of continuing that mission—because when women come together to uplift and inspire one another, we create something far greater than ourselves.
Here’s to stirring up our own unique recipes and savoring the journey along the way.