The Empower Freedom Conference 2026 presented by SCHEELS

Join us for the Empower Freedom Conference 2026 presented by SCHEELS. In its 5th year, this conference is hosted by Fierce Freedom to equip communities towards disrupting cycles of human trafficking & exploitation in their personal and professional spheres of influence. 

What to Expect? In the morning we'll hear from Starla Thompson. She will share with attendees about her work as the founder of Walks With a Good Heart, LLC and a leader with Waking Women Healing Institute (WWHI), an Indigenous and survivor-led organization dedicated to addressing the crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2S).

We'll also be joined by Jenny Almquist, Founder of Fierce Freedom, Nonprofit Organizational Advisor, and Spiritual Director. Jenny will share about her journey from near burnout to inner peace, offering vital insights on the essential role of inner work and rest when engaging sustainably in justice work.

Our final keynote is Kati Ann Dussl, Ganawenindiwag (DVSA) Program Manager, St. Croix Tribal Services. Kati Ann will share about practical ways to be an advocate for survivors through our shifting cultural norms and everyday practices.

The event also hosts an afternoon panel featuring all keynote speakers. This interactive panel will explore survivor-centered care, prevention strategies, and the real-life impact of community support.

At this year’s Empower Freedom Conference, we also invite attendees to experience the powerful What Were You Wearing? art installation—a project that challenges the narrative of victim-blaming and invites us to rethink the questions we ask survivors.

Ticketing includes: all day session access, breakfast, lunch, refreshments, conference materials, and door prize entry.

Ticket deadline: October 7 at 12 noon

We hope to see you there for an amazing day of learning and empowerment!

The Empower Freedom Conference is presented by SCHEELS. Thank you to Scheels and all our Sponsors!