LOS ANGELES (June 2026) —New opportunities, valuable resources and inspiring conversations took center stage at the 3rd Annual Women Veterans Summit: Expanding Horizons on June 12, where more than 100 women veterans from across the country took part in the event’s first national gathering. Hosted by the Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and Warrior Heritage Foundation, the summit provided opportunities to learn, share experiences, explore resources and build new pathways for success.
Through discussions on navigating VA healthcare and benefits, women veterans’ health and wellness, leadership, career development and community engagement, attendees explored resources and opportunities designed to support growth beyond military service.
For Marine Corps veteran Esmeralda Alamillo-Gadut, who served on the summit planning committee, one of the event’s greatest strengths is its ability to connect women veterans with information they may not otherwise encounter.
“There’s so much information that’s being shared. And sometimes we think we know it all, that we’ve already heard that, but I think every time there’s something new that we take with us. And then you can share it to other women veterans, getting the word out there,” she said.
The summit also provided opportunities for women veterans to build relationships with one another through networking, breakout sessions and conversations rooted in shared military experiences.
“It’s our third year, and each year, it gets bigger and better, and it’s made that way because of the people that attend,” said Navy veteran and event planner Dr. Randee McLain-Malone.
McLain-Malone, who transitioned from military service nearly 15 years ago, added that the summit is shaped by women veterans who share their experiences and help identify the resources and support most needed by the community.
“If I can share what I’ve learned in my experiences and help other women not go through those same things, that’s why we do this work, and to have that sisterhood and have those shared experiences with my sisters in arms, is super important to me,” McLain-Malone said.
For attendee Esteen Williams, the opportunity to connect with fellow women veterans was one of the most meaningful parts of the summit experience.
“It means connectivity and togetherness with fellow people who understand exactly what you understand or see about the military. And it’s beautiful to me,” said Williams
The summit also featured a panel discussion with the 2026 CalVet Women Veterans Trailblazer Award honorees, highlighting women whose continued service and leadership are strengthening communities across California. Among the panelists was Army veteran Dr. Kathy Cash.
“When I got out of the service, I was told I wasn’t a veteran, and I missed out on a lot of benefits, and the camaraderie, everything I’m able to experience now,” said Cash.
Cash said her experiences inspired her to become an advocate and resource for other women veterans navigating life after service.
“Your service matters. First of all, your service matters, and second, we don’t know what we don’t know,” she said.
Attendee Mayra Salazar traveled from Orange County to participate in the summit and connect with fellow women veterans. She said events like this help bring visibility to a community that often goes unrecognized.
“Everyone knows a veteran, but you’re kind of surprised, like, as you’re going through the stores, that a lot of women in there can be a veteran,” Salazar said. “We just, we just don’t know, because we don’t wear it like most of the males.”
Salazar encouraged women veterans to remain open to opportunities for connection and support.
“You should definitely come to these events; your service may have not been the greatest. But it’s not like that on the outside,” said Salazar.
Army veteran Norma Beatos Yaris attended the summit as both a veteran and volunteer, reflecting the spirit of service that was evident throughout the day.
“While helping myself, I’ll help others, and I’ll be happy,” said Yaris. “If they’re happy I’m happy.”
As attendees exchanged stories, resources and encouragement, a common theme emerged: women veterans continue to strengthen their communities by supporting one another and sharing what they have learned.
“Being a veteran, we are proud,” said Yaris.
Story by Layla Romero, Public Information Staff Assistant, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and Photo by Ashley Cohen, Public Information Associate, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
