Women who want to learn how to make a difference in the lives of others will have that opportunity at the second annual I Have Been Chosen Empowerment Conference in Meridian.

The theme is “Let Your Light Shine,” hosted by Upward Bound Ministries evangelist Kimberly A. Houston, is scheduled at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13 and 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 14 at the Northeast Conference Center, next to the Hilton Garden Inn and Hampton Inn. Doors will open at 6 p.m. Friday night.

Guest speakers for the event will include psalmist Krista McKenzie, ministers Pamela Cryer-Temple, Sonya Frye and Michelle Hedgemon, Co-pastor Linda Willis, evangelist Rosalind Operton, Sister Beth Sharp and Pastor Gail Ford-Baskin. Registration is $25 and is due by Dec. 31. A t-shirt can be purchased for $15. 

The conference is for any woman who feels God is tugging on their heart to do more, said Houston, who will deliver the opening message of inspiration Friday night.

“We are trying to inspire women to get involved and get in position to impact, inspire and transform lives for the glory of God,” Houston said. “We all need to play a role and see what we can do outside of the church walls to make a difference.” 

On Saturday, those in attendance will get to participate in an “Iron Sharpens Iron Experience” – where a host of panelists will be available for a girl talk session over coffee, fruit and muffins. The day will continue with more inspirational speaking followed by lunch.

When asked why this conference is important for women to attend? Houston replied, God created us to be nurturers by nature, and sometimes we get caught up in taking care of our own little bubble that we forget the village.

“The harvest is plentiful, but we have so many that don’t want to get out of their comfort zones, that are scared to step out in faith and utilize their talents, gifts and nurturing nature that God has put in us,” Houston said. 

Houston said last year’s conference was a success with several women being called to the ministry, several opened businesses and several who committed doing more for the kingdom of God.

“We have all these talents inside us and I think as women if we begin to nurture other young girls, or even young men and be more involved we could maybe make our cities, communities, neighborhoods and eventually this entire nation a better place,” Houston said.