Tuesday’s executive presence workshop was an engaging and thought-provoking session, moderated by Marie Chavanon, IPWS Board Member, and led by four insightful speakers: Maggie Chan, Anna Chitty, Oxana Monge, and Jessica Glesson.

Throughout the session, participants explored the complex and evolving concept of executive presence—what it means, how we develop it, and how we use it to lead with clarity, influence effectively, and make thoughtful decisions.

The conversation opened with Jessica Glesson, who framed executive presence through the lens of servant leadership—leading with purpose, making intentional decisions, and continuously investing in yourself. She spoke about the importance of saying yes to visibility—whether through public speaking, joining a panel, or simply stepping into a moment that challenges you. Her question—“Do I want to be liked or respected?”—set the tone for a conversation about balancing empathy with authority and owning your choices with confidence.

Oxana Monge expanded on this by inviting participants to tune into the “little voices” in our heads—the self-doubt, the comparisons, the hesitation—and understand how they affect how we show up. Describing executive presence as “confident, composed influence,” she explored how to consciously manage energy, create space for feedback, and lead with authenticity and strategic clarity. Her message centered on the idea that presence isn’t about perfection—it’s about awareness, agility, and being grounded in who you are.

Maggie Chan brought the theme of growth to life, describing executive presence as a process of turning vision into reality. She emphasized the importance of gaining knowledge, sharing generously, and taking bold, visible steps—especially in decision-making and leadership moments. “Face everything and rise,” she said, reminding participants that fear can be a catalyst for learning. She also spoke candidly about supporting the next generation and navigating the intersection of leadership and motherhood with intention.

Anna Chitty added another layer of reflection, sharing her journey from outward extroversion toward a more measured, inquiry-driven approach to leadership. She highlighted the value of listening over speaking, of asking thoughtful questions, and of leading with curiosity and clarity. Executive presence, she said, is about managing emotions, communicating intentionally, and creating structure that invites contribution and trust. Her perspective emphasized the nuanced signals leaders send—often more through presence than words.

The group also reflected on the balance between being assertive and being aggressive, the difference between doing things right and doing the right thing, and how to lead while staying emotionally grounded. Participants left with strategies to influence action and impact with intention, and practical advice to grow their presence by managing energy, seeking feedback, and embracing authenticity.

As a closing reflection, each speaker offered a message to their younger self—a meaningful way to end the session:

Jessica Glesson: “Invest in yourself.”

Oxana Monge: “Dare to dream.”

Maggie Chan: “Be brave enough to step up and find your mentor.”

Anna Chitty: “It’s okay to be in charge—just make sure you have support.”

Thank you to Hang Lung Properties for generously providing the venue, and to our food and beverage partners: Highland Park Single Malt Scotch Whisky and LeGourmand, for their contributions to the evening.