Building Your Brand | Speaker At Stockyards

KCK Forward Young Professionals is excited to offer an upcoming event that is sure to be a valuable experience. The August Speaker At Stockyards series will be focused on Building Your Brand, a topic relevant to anyone looking to establish themselves professionally. Attendees will have the opportunity to network with peers, listen to informative presentations, and enjoy Stockyards beer. The speakers at this event are exceptional in their respective fields and include Sarah Plake from KSHB 41, Nichole Fox from Steel City Media, Lydia Taylor from Q104 and KC Current, and Rita Stickland from Cubework. Each of these accomplished individuals brings a unique perspective to the table that will help attendees build their personal brands in a meaningful way. Join us and take the first step towards building a brand that will elevate your professional career!

Speaker Bios

Sarah Plake
Sarah Plake is a native of Kansas City, Kansas. She obtained a journalism degree from the University of Kansas and embarked on her desired profession as a TV news reporter. For three years, Sarah worked in Topeka before securing a position in her hometown in 2015. Since then, she has been employed by KSHB 41 News. Sarah places great importance on social justice and matters affecting the community, particularly in empowering women. Proud of her diverse ethnicity, Sarah approaches every endeavor with an open mind and a compassionate heart.
Nichole Fox
Meet Nichole, the digital media maven who has been blazing trails in the industry for over a decade! With a heart rooted in Kansas City, she has navigated markets coast to coast, always returning to her beloved hometown.
Her journey has been all about bridging the gap between traditional and digital media. Nichole's expertise lies in empowering traditional media teams to embrace the ever-evolving digital landscape and seize exciting opportunities for their clients. Her passion for an omnichannel approach has been the key to her success, connecting clients to customers like never before.
Currently, she holds the reins of the Digital Department at Steel City Media, a multimedia powerhouse with an unwavering focus on the local community. Steel City Media's Mix 93.3, KFKF, KC102.1, and Q104 channels boast top-rated personalities and well-established events, delivering an unparalleled entertainment experience to KC residents.
But Nichole's ambitions don't end there—she's a multi-faceted individual who finds joy in family bonds and personal projects. As the eldest of three siblings, she cherishes moments spent with her loved ones, especially when playing with her adorable three-year-old niece. Beyond her professional endeavors, Nichole has recently embarked on an exciting venture by launching CHOLES, LLC, a lifestyle brand designed for women, a testament to her creativity and entrepreneurial spirit.
Even with a busy schedule, Nichole finds time to give back to the community through volunteering and serving on the Board of Digital Women KC. When she's not immersed in the world of media and community engagement, you'll likely find her jamming at concerts or whisking away on weekend getaways, soaking in new experiences and creating memories that add vibrant colors to the canvas of her life.
Nichole's story is a testament to the power of passion, hard work, and the pursuit of dreams. She continues to be a guiding light in the digital media realm, inspiring others to embrace change, connect communities, and leave a positive impact wherever they go.
Lydia Taylor
Lydia Taylor is a lifelong resident of Kansas City who has developed a strong connection and established a notable presence within her community. She serves as the host of Afternoons with Lydia on Q104kc (3-7pm M-F) and fulfills the role of in-stadium host for KC Current and KU Football.
In addition to her work with KC Current and KU Football, Lydia possesses a wealth of experience collaborating with various esteemed sports teams and leagues in Kansas City, including the Royals, Mavericks, and the BIG 12.
Whether she is behind the microphone, on the sidelines, in the stadium, or actively involved in planning and supporting events that benefit local community organizations, Lydia is dedicated to embodying a personality and voice that is deeply rooted in her passion for the city. Her commitment to spreading positivity and joy, while keeping in touch with everything Kansas City has to offer, is truly commendable.
Rita Stickland
Rita's transformative journey encapsulates the triumphant fusion of overcoming adversity, entrepreneurial prowess, and unwavering community commitment. As a dynamic keynote speaker, Rita
harnesses her powerful narrative to ignite change and inspire audiences around the world. Armed with an academic background in Industrial Engineering from the University of Arkansas, Rita has evolved into the driving force behind Cubework KC's remarkable achievements. Her leadership as the Business Development Manager culminated in the ingenious conversion of a colossal 2.8 million square feet into the groundbreaking Original Super Flea, Warehouse, Storage, and Parking.
 
Beyond her corporate triumphs, Rita's passion for empowerment led her to co-found Strickly Proverbs 31 Creative Events and Designs in 2013, a visionary venture that thrives on orchestrating unforgettable events while nurturing the aspirations of emerging event planners and designers. An engaged church member and dedicated community leader, Rita's commitment to uplifting others is evident through her participation on numerous Boards of Directors. This includes her role as a HopeKids Board Member, where she contributes to making a difference in the lives of children facing serious illnesses. Rita's dedication extends to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion as a member of the Greater KC Chamber's committee. Her community engagement further encompasses her role as a Founder Member of Blakk CO/Goldie_, an initiative that amplifies underrepresented voices and promotes positive change. Rita's impact ripples through her involvement as a City Year Change Agent, and her advisory roles within various educational institutions, including the NKC Advisory Board, NKC School District Industry Executive Council, and Liberty Schools Advisory Board.
 
Rita's personal journey, one of triumph over rape and cervical cancer, has fueled her advocacy for mental health awareness and survivor support. Her keynote addresses resonate with authenticity and resilience, serving as a guiding light for individuals navigating challenges.
With a resolute focus on fostering change, Rita's keynote speaking transcends inspiration and becomes a catalyst for transformation. Audiences are left empowered, motivated, and equipped to conquer their own adversities, as Rita's story showcases the boundless potential of the human spirit.
Past Community Roles
– Northland Regional Chamber of Commerce member
– Northland Leadership C/O 2019
– Platte City Chamber member
– Restart Inc - 40th Anniversary Legacy Committee Member
– Parkville Chamber Member since 2018
– Parkville Vice President Chamber Board Member since 2019
– Centurions Leadership C/O Fall 2021
– YMCA NKC Mission Board Member