WOMEN IN WORSHIP
est. 2006
What is women in worship?
Women in Worship is a sacred space where women leave behind the stresses of life and business to focus on spiritual enrichment and professional growth. In 2006, God told Melva, “You get women to the throne, and I’ll take them from there.” That simple directive inspired the launch of "100 Women in Worship", an intimate gathering that exceeded all expectations when more than double the anticipated number of women arrived. The electrifying atmosphere of worship and connection was a clear sign of God’s hand at work, marking the beginning of a life-changing movement. Melva’s “yes” in that moment birthed Women in Worship—an annual gathering, not just a conference. It is a moed, a divine appointment where women come together to worship, pray, and be transformed by God’s word. Every year, attendees are reminded, “Your life will never be the same,” and God continues to be faithful in sending them out refreshed, renewed, and equipped to walk in His calling for their lives.
women in worship 2025
This year, as we gather in worship, we declare that Grace Moves—it moves in us, through us, and ahead of us, making a way where there seems to be none. Whether you are seeking spiritual renewal, breakthrough, or a fresh encounter with God, WIW25 is your moment to receive. Through powerful worship, transformative teachings, and life-giving connections, you will be reminded that grace is not stagnant—it is active, powerful, and always at work in your life. Join us June 6-7 in Milwaukee, WI, and experience the undeniable movement of grace!
Empowerment luncheon
The Women in Worship Empowerment Luncheon is a powerful gathering designed to inspire and equip women in leadership, business, and personal growth. This exclusive event offers dynamic speakers, insightful discussions, and meaningful networking opportunities—all in an uplifting and empowering atmosphere. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, professional, or simply seeking inspiration, this luncheon is your chance to connect with like-minded women, gain valuable insights, and walk away with practical tools to elevate every area of your life. Don’t miss this opportunity to invest in yourself and be part of a movement that empowers women to lead with confidence and purpose!
Speakers
Pastor John F. Hannah is a husband, pastor, speaker, and author who’s impacted thousands of lives through his ministry, prayer, and dedication to service. The foundation for his pastoral passion is rooted in his love for urban youth and teaching others how to grow their relationship with God through prayer. He began his career as a Juvenile Probation Officer in Chicago’s Cook County and eventually transitioned into serving as a youth pastor at a local church for many years. It was during these times that opportunities developed, leading John to perfect the calling for his destiny as the shepherd of a remarkable organization that would become New Life.
Today, John F. Hannah is the founder and lead pastor of New Life Covenant Church Southeast, a non-denominational, multicultural church on the Southside of Chicago. Presently, the church has grown to more than 20,000 members, including online membership. While the numbers suggest a megachurch sized atmosphere, the spirit of the house and its members promote a family environment, committed to serving God and our Community.
In addition to pastoring, John F. Hannah is committed to teaching others how to grow their relationship with God through prayer. This is demonstrated every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month when he leads 4AM Prayer at NLCSE, through his spontaneous Facebook Live and Instagram sessions, and at various churches and venues around the world. He is also the best-selling author of What to Do While You’re Waiting, Desperate for Jesus and Just PRAY.
John F. Hannah lives in Chicago, IL with his wife of 30+ years, Anna Hannah – who also serves alongside him. She is dedicated to supporting his vision and the mission of New Life Covenant Southeast.
Ashley M. Fox is the Founder & Chief Executive Officer of Empify, a leading fintech company dedicated to democratizing financial education. Fox is a former Wall Street analyst, a Howard University graduate, and an expert in her field as a Financial Education Specialist. Building upon her career managing portfolios for high-net-worth individuals, Fox founded Empify to empower the 99% that Wall Street overlooks with the tools to build generational wealth including investing courses, estate planning, retirement planning, and more.
Empify, named by merging the words EMPower and modIFY, revolutionizes how users learn to build wealth. The company’s membership-based WealthBuilders Community app, widely referenced as the “Netflix of Finance,” simplifies financial concepts through its life-alternating programs and digital content designed to remove fear around investing. Since inception, Empify has equipped millions of individuals with the tools to build wealth and has enabled tens of thousands of adults and children to become first-time investors. Its educational programs have been implemented in hundreds of schools, prison systems, and organizations across the United States and over 20 countries including the School District of Philadelphia, the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business, US Bank, Essence, and Google. Underscoring its impact, Empify was ranked in the top 50 companies in the Financial Services category for Inc. Magazine’s 5000 Fast-Growing Companies list, securing an overall ranking of #652 in August 2024.
Fox has earned numerous accolades including her recognition as one of Black Enterprise’s 2024 40 Under 40 awardees. She was also named as a Black Woman Trailblazer for her groundbreaking work in financial education at the 2024 Hallmark Mahogany Honors. A frequent keynote speaker at international events, her story and expertise have been featured on prominent media outlets, including Jim Cramer’s “The Street,” Yahoo Finance, CNBC, Inc. Magazine, Afrotech, Business Insider, Fox News, ABC, Huffington Post, Glamour Magazine, and Forbes.
Tanya hines
Tanya Hines is an accomplished businesswoman who has achieved remarkable success. She broke
barriers as one of the first Black women to be named Vice President of Customer Business Development at Procter & Gamble, paving the way for future generations. At Johnson Publishing Co., she was Senior VP of Sales and Marketing and was crucial in revitalizing the iconic Ebony and Jet magazines. Tanya is a talented strategist with expertise in developing commercial capabilities. Currently, she serves as Vice President of Commercial Excellence in the Manufacturing Division at Samuel, Son & Co., continually making an impact in the global marketplace.
Tanya is dedicated to serving her community and empowering women, and her commitment extends
beyond her corporate responsibilities. She generously volunteers her time and expertise on several
boards, including the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee. In November 2022, Tanya launched
Inner Court, a leadership development series to uplift and advise women to walk in their destiny. Her
commitment to improving lives is a testament to her passion for making a meaningful difference.
A native of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Tanya holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from
Marquette University. She enjoys life with her husband, Daven L. Hines Sr., and they have a wonderful
son, Daven L. Hines Jr. Her life demonstrates that anything is possible with faith, hard work, and a
commitment to excellence!
Jennifer Cruz, an outstanding and prolific speaker, has mentored many on the power to prevail in life as a wife, mother, businesswoman, author, philanthropist, pastor, and former Mrs. Illinois United States.
Her personal journey of brokenness, facing gender-based violence, and her triumph has provided inspiration to thousands and continues to do so through conferences, events, and the Warriors Academy Mentorship both locally and globally.
The Academy is currently bringing healing and empowerment to girls who have faced gender-based violence in South Africa, in the villages of Delmas, Soweto, and Kliptown.
Jennifer believes not only in giving them a handout but also a hand up. This is done through the empowerment of business classes and hands-on training, such as working with a seamstress and learning how to sew.
Jennifer has authored five books, including Broken Places Can Become The Sweetest Places and Loving The Man That I Hate & Hating The Woman That I Love.
In addition, Jennifer has launched several business ventures, and most recently, two boutiques—her ventures have helped support missions.
She co-pastors Faithworld Church in Chicago alongside her husband, the love of her life, Pastor Daniel Cruz, for over 33 years. Together, they have five precious children, one who went to be with the Lord during COVID, and their beautiful grandbaby, Zara Grace.
Book Your Overnight Stay at
The Trade, Milwaukee
Take advantage of our exclusive event rate at The Trade Hotel! The final day to book under this special rate is May 9, 2025.
After this date, any additional rooms will be available at the hotel’s standard rates based on availability. Don’t miss out—secure your room today!
F.A.Q.
Get your questions answered!
Hundreds of women are expected to attend in June in Milwaukee, and while the venue is air-conditioned, it’s recommended to dress comfortably for the temperature.
Childcare is not available.