DETROIT, MI – Communities First, Inc. is excited to announce its next Community Candor Live event, “Women in Power: Leading with Authenticity,” taking place Friday, November 21, from 8:00 AM to 9:30 AM at the Henry Ford Pistons Performance Center, 6201, 2nd Avenue in Detroit.

This in-person panel discussion will feature inspiring conversations with dynamic women leaders who are breaking barriers, fostering inclusion, and leading with authenticity in their respective industries. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with the panelists during a live Q&A session. A light breakfast will be served, and the recommended ticket price is $25.

Featured Speakers:

  • Essence Wilson – Moderator, Chief Strategy Officer, Communities First, Inc.
  • Linh Song – Panelist, Chair of the Song Foundation
  • Tonya Berry – Panelist, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of CMS Energy Corporation & Consumers Energy Company
  • Melanie Harris – Panelist, President of Business Operations, Detroit Pistons
  • Vivian Pickard – Panelist, President & CEO, The Pickard Group

“Community Candor Live is all about open, honest dialogue that drives progress,” said Essence Wilson, Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Communities First, Inc. “This conversation will celebrate women leading with courage, empathy, and integrity, qualities our communities need now more than ever.”

Event Details

  • Date: Friday, November 21, 2025
  • Time: 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM
  • Location: Henry Ford Pistons Performance Center, Detroit
  • Format: In-Person | Breakfast Included
  • Recommended Ticket Price: $25
  • Registration: tinyurl.com/CCLiveDetroit

Communities First, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people and building strong, sustainable communities through economic development, education, arts, and environmental initiatives.

While attendance is free, a recommended donation of $25 is suggested to help support event costs, including breakfast for all participants. This event is made possible through the generous support of Comerica Bank, Ford Motor Company, Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), and the Detroit Pistons.

For media inquiries or further details, please contact: Matt Bach at mbach@communitiesfirstinc.org, and 810-422-5358 ext. 1008.

About Communities First, Inc. (CFI)

Communities First, Inc. is a nonprofit Community Development Corporation. Headquartered in Flint, CFI serves over 35,000 community members across Michigan and Indiana. CFI’s mission is to build healthy, vibrant communities through economic development, affordable housing, and innovative programming. More information about Communities First, Inc. can be found at www.communitiesfirstinc .org.