Learn how to confidently advocate for yourself at work with Heather Nemelka’s empowering R.I.S.E. framework.
A while ago, I attended a website-design workshop at Utah Valley University, where I first met Heather Nemelka.
I remember sitting next to her and thinking she looked so familiar, though I couldn’t quite place why. She had a warm, curious energy, yet she admitted with a laugh that she had no idea how to use Canva for a project at her job and had come to the workshop to learn. In my head, I immediately cast myself as the “helpful insider,” sharing tips and resources to guide her through the basics of design. I even assumed she might be one of those remarkable adults coming back to campus to build new skills after raising kids, perhaps even finishing an undergraduate degree. Looking back, I can’t help but laugh at my own confident little narrative.
Before leaving, I introduced myself a little more and explained that I worked for what was then the Women in Business Impact Lab—now the Business Impact Lab (BIL)—and invited her to one of our monthly DEN (Develop, Engage, and Network) events. She smiled politely and said she might come. I figured it was one of those pleasant conversations that ends when the workshop ends.
Fast-forward to our next DEN event—there she was! Not only did Heather show up, but the guest speaker that day turned out to be one of her close friends. In that instant, it hit me: I had seen Heather before. A couple of years earlier, I’d watched her speak on stage at a conference panel, sharing her MBA journey and the lessons she’d learned as a leader. I had admired her from afar, thinking, This is exactly the kind of woman I want to become someday.
And now here she was, sitting quietly beside me in a small workshop—humble, approachable, and never once hinting at the powerhouse she really is.
That powerhouse is Heather Nemelka, Founder of Elavare, an organization dedicated to helping women build confidence and return to the workforce through training, mentorship, and community support. Drawing from over 20 years in leadership and marketing—and her own courageous experience re-entering the workforce as a single mom of five—Heather created Elavare to empower women navigating career transitions. Beyond Elavare, she serves as vice-chair of the Silicon Slopes AI Chapter, sits on the boards of Bear River Mutual and MomTribe, and holds both a BA in Communications and an MBA from Brigham Young University. Above all, she treasures her role as mom to her five kids.
After that DEN event, I couldn’t resist reaching out to Heather to ask if she would share her story as one of our guest speakers. She immediately said yes, eager to inspire others with the same wisdom and courage that had inspired me from the very beginning.
At our upcoming BIL Impact DEN event, Heather will share inspiring insights on how to confidently advocate for yourself at work—even
when it feels uncomfortable or intimidating.
Through real stories and relatable experiences, she’ll show professionals at every
stage—whether you’re a student preparing to launch your career or a manager leading
a team—how to take charge of your growth by being proactive, recognizing your value,
and having honest conversations about your goals.
You’ll also learn Heather’s simple yet transformative strategy: R.I.S.E.
Recognize Your Value
Initiate Conversations
Seek Support
Exceed Expectations
This framework will help you feel confident and prepared to ask for what you need
to grow while making a meaningful impact on your team and organization.
Join us for the BIL DEN Event on Wednesday, October 15, from 8:30–9:45 a.m. at UVU KB 102. Enjoy complimentary breakfast and inspiring networking.
