SHAPE THE CAPE

What does local mean, anyway?

We all know it's important to choose local... but how do we actually navigate the challenges of shopping local. And how does our shopping define what it means to belong? Join for a candid conversation on navigating the boundaries and bridges of place and purpose.

Is college worth it?

With student debt soaring and alternatives to traditional education expanding, does a college degree still guarantee opportunities? From technical training to self-directed learning, there are so many routes to consider. This session invites attendees to share personal experiences and weigh in on the future of work.

Should I start a business?

Thinking about launching your own thing? Three early-career business owners will share how they got started, from refining their ideas and navigating permits, to funding and finding their first customers. Hear from local entrepreneurs about their journeys, challenges, tips, and traps.

Making it as an artist… is that a thing?

Can you turn your work as an artist into a sustainable career on Cape Cod? From finding opportunities and building a personal brand to navigating financial challenges, three local creatives will share how they carved out their paths and how they keep going.

Where do you get your local info?

In our TikTok era (and, more depressingly, the age of declining local journalism) where do Cape Cod folks turn for reliable news and updates? This session will explore ways to stay informed about issues that matter most and strategies to stay connected.

Wait... You cross the bridge *every* day?

Commuting on-and-off Cape is a reality for many young professionals, but what’s it really like to cross the bridge daily? This panel explores the challenges, surprises, and strategies of life as a Cape Cod commuter. Hear from those who make the trek and why they do it.

Does anyone *actually* know what the blue economy is?

The “blue economy” gets talked about a lot on Cape— but what does it really mean? Whether you’re curious about sustainable practices or new career opportunities, join to unpack the concept and discuss its impact on our local industries, environment, and workforce.

For real, tho, how are parents of young kids doing this?

Raising young kids while working, caretaking, maintaining relationships, and, and, and... how are we even supposed to do this? Join three local parents to share candid stories, strategies, and support for navigating child care, community resources, and the balancing act of modern parenting.

You Need a Budget

This session will break down the basics of budgeting, saving, and tackling debt, with practical tips tailored for young professionals. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level-up your financial game, building financial stability starts with understanding where your money goes and then making a plan.

Placemaking & Finding Your People

Making friends as an adult is so weird. This panel will explore how to find your people, whether through shared interests, community initiatives, or local events. Hear from others who’ve navigated the journey of finding their crew and find inspiration for growing your own network.

Seriously, it's time to take a nap.

Rest is overlooked and undervalued. Taking time to recharge is essential for your well-being. This panel will dive into the science of rest, the importance of sleep, and how to prioritize self-care in a busy lifestyle. Join us to learn why a nap isn’t just a luxury—it’s a key (and radical) part of being alive.

Growing Your Own

Growing your own food has so many benefits. But do the benefits outweigh the time and effort needed to produce a harvest? (We’ve all had that $60 tomato…) Learn how everything from backyard gardens to small-scale farming on Cape can positively impact our environment, health, and budgets.

Developing Your Personal Style

Your style is a powerful way to express who you are— but how do you discover and refine it? Join and explore tips for building a wardrobe that fits your personality, lifestyle, and budget. From finding inspo to shopping smarter, craft a look that feels authentically you.

Making Your Voice Heard

Explore how we can effectively advocate for change within local government. Learn how to engage with town councils, navigate local policies, and influence decisions on issues that impact your career, community, and quality of life on Cape.

Are the Town-Based Child Care Stipends Working?

This session will explore Cape Cod’s new town-based child care stipends, designed to support young professionals balancing work and family. Discuss the impact of these stipends on thee cost of child care, workforce retention, and family wellbeing.

Unlikely Housing Allies

Solving the housing crisis requires collaboration across sectors, industries, and perspectives. In this session, we’ll hear from those working together to tackle housing challenges in innovative ways, breaking silos, forging creative partnerships, and finding common ground to drive real solutions.

Health & Wellbeing in Our community

This session will focus on the importance of accessible healthcare, mental health resources, and wellness initiatives for young professionals on Cape. Join us as we explore local efforts to improve health outcomes and create a supportive environment for both physical and mental well-being.

How Affordable is affordable housing?

This session will delve into the challenges and realities of affordable housing on Cape Cod. We’ll discuss the current housing market, explore what "affordable" means right now, and get to know resources and strategies that can help young professionals find stable, affordable places to live on the Cape.

Sharpening Your Career Focus

Navigating a career on Cape comes with unique opportunities and challenges. This panel will help you clarify your professional goals, identify opportunities for growth, and create a roadmap to success. Gain insights from experts and peers to refine your focus and take your career to the next level.

Building Your Brand

Your personal brand is more than just a logo or tagline— it’s how you present yourself to the world. This session will explore how to define your strengths and use tools like social media to showcase your brand. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a freelancer, or growing your career, learn practical tips to stand out and leave an impression.

How to make Networking Not Weird

Awkward. Transactional? Nerve wracking! Networking—a.k.a., striking up a conversation with a complete stranger—can feel daunting. But the hardest part of it all is in our heads, especially the pressure we're putting ourselves under. Come chat about how to stop freaking out so you can build some genuine connections.

Making a Career Pivot

Thinking about changing careers but not sure where to start? Hear stories from Cape Cod pros who’ve reinvented their paths. They'll share how they navigated the process of making a successful pivot, from identifying transferable skills to building a network in a new field, and took the leap with confidence.

negotiating your salary

This panel will empower you with strategies and insights to approach salary negotiations with confidence. Learn how to research compensation, communicate your value, and advocate for yourself in a way that sets you up for success—whether you’re starting a new job or asking for a raise.

Elevate Your Social Media game

Learn how to create eye-catching social media content with Canva, a user-friendly design tool perfect for beginners. This session will cover basic features, design tips, and strategies to boost your presence and make your posts stand out.

Talita Amaral da Rocha

Talita is the CEO of Vacation Cape Cod. She transitioned from food industry and corporate management to immigration law before discovering her passion for property management and vacation rentals. With experience managing nearly 200 homes, Talita values local networks and creating unforgettable experiences for both guests and entrepreneurs.

Leanne Anderson

Leanne is the marketing and events Manager at Cape Cod Beer, commuting from Plymouth to the Cape. She holds a Business Marketing degree from Roger Williams University and is a proud alum of the Leadership Cape Cod Class of 2024. She also serves on the board of directors for the Mark Hennessey Foundation. When she's not working, you’ll likely find her at the beach or enjoying live music around town.

Samantha Aronne

Sam, a Cape Cod native, earned a Business Management degree from Saint Michael’s College. After a decade in construction, she joined Mass Hire Cape and Islands Workforce Board as a Sector Strategist. Passionate about community, she serves on multiple committees and enjoys sports, the outdoors, and family time.

Molly Avellar

Jewelry designer Molly co-founded Adorn, a curated shop in East Orleans in 2015. After studying jewelry-making and craftsmanship, she launched her line in 2012. Adorn, known for handcrafted jewelry and unique gifts, celebrates its 10th anniversary as Molly continues to grow as an artist and entrepreneur.

Amanda Bebrin

Amanda is CDP's director of Housing Advocacy. She was elected to Brewster's Select Board in 2024 and brings a wealth of experience from her years as a realtor, a high school teacher, and a volunteer with Leadership Cape Cod, United Way, and the Cape Cod Foundation.

Leo Blanford

Leo is the Outer Cape Health Services Director of Health Equity and Community Impact. Prior to  OCHS, he worked in a range of social services in MA, including youth and families through the Children’s Behavioral Health Initiative, outpatient behavioral health therapy, and homeless outreach.

Kolby Blehm

Kolby is the founder of Reticulated Cape Cod, where he has cracked the code on what makes businesses thrive in the region’s unique economic landscape. With a diverse background spanning hospitality, entertainment, healthcare, finance, and consulting, his expertise in financial management, strategic planning, and business optimization allows him to diagnose challenges and implement sustainable, results-driven solutions.

Jitka Borowick

Originally from the Czech Republic, Jitka immigrated to the U.S. in 2003 and launched Nové, a yoga and wellness studio in Dennis, in 2020. She currently serves as Vice President of WE CAN and sits on the boards of Cape Cod Academy and Second Summer Cycle. She is also a corporator at Cape Cod Five and a member of the Kelley Foundation.

Courtney Butler

Courtney is a proud public servant and employee of the Town of Brewster. She moved to Cape Cod in 2015 to intern at the Cape Cod National Seashore. Courtney received her MPA in 2021 from Roger Williams University and lives in Yarmouth with her husband and dog.

Katie Castagno

Director of the Land-Sea Interaction Program at the Center for Coastal Studies, researching coastal resilience, salt marsh restoration, and sediment transport. Katie's research explores climate impacts, shoreline stabilization, and strategies for protecting New England’s coasts.

Alexis Charles

Alexis is the founder of AC Creatives, a digital agency focused on helping brands create authentic and engaging online vibes. Her social media journey began in the early days of the internet, coding MySpace layouts and chatting on AIM. With a deep curiosity for technology and design, she has spent years exploring and experimenting with new platforms, trends, and creative strategies to help clients build their unique online presence.

Jeny Christian

Jeny, a U.S. Army Veteran, served in Iraq in 2010. She holds degrees in both renewable energy and food systems as well as a permaculture design certificate. In 2024, she grew 5,000 pounds of produce on a quarter acre for local food pantries through the Service Garden and teaches others to grow food on small plots.

Catherine Clark

Catherine is vice president of Community Engagement at Housing Assistance. She grew up on Cape and has proudly dedicated her career to the nonprofit sector for more than twelve years. You may know her from her work at the Arts Foundation of Cape Cod, CCYP, and other local nonprofits! Most recently, Catherine co-chaired Philanthropy Partners of the Cape and Islands Philanthropy Day Committee.

Paola Collazos

From Bogotá, Colombia, Paola is trilingual and holds a degree in finance. She worked in the financial sector of a courier company before transitioning to hospitality and later dedicating herself to raising her three sons, two with special needs. Committed to being a well-rounded mother, she integrates holistic healing, mindfulness, and meditation into her life to create balance amid work, advocacy, and family. She actively navigates education and healthcare systems for her children, manages summer homes, leads the Nauset Multilingual Parent Advisory Council, and promotes cultural inclusion.

Sarah Colvin

Sarah is an experienced communications specialist with a 25-year media career. Since 2019, she has served as Cape Cod Commission's communications manager, where she informs the community about ongoing efforts to address regional challenges. You can hear her playing radio DJ every Sunday from noon to 6 on Koffee FM.

Tara Cronin

Tara is the director of Resource Development at Habitat for Humanity of Cape Cod, managing fundraising events like The Ride for Homes and the Home in One Golf Tournament. She collaborates with donors, volunteers, the faith community, and businesses to help build affordable homes for local families.

JIM CURRAN

Jim is the director of Financial Know-How at Cape Cod 5 and teaches a breadth of financial wellness skills at Cape and Island schools, businesses, and non-profits. He is a graduate of the New England School of Finance and has a degree in Psychology from Catholic University in Washington, D.C.

Marissa Cyr

Marissa is the chief of staff for Housing Assistance, a nonprofit agency that has helped people with housing throughout the Cape and Islands region for over 50 years. She supports strategic initiatives across the organization and provides executive, administrative, project management support. Marissa is a former Vice President of CCYP.

Stephanie Dennehy

Stephanie is executive vice president and chief marketing officer at Cape Cod 5 and serves on CCYP's Board. She earned a B.S. from Bentley University and attended the ABA Stonier Graduate School of Banking at Wharton. She and her husband have three sons and a golden retriever, and she commutes to the Cape from Duxbury.

Ashley Dufresne

Ashley is the owner of Ashley Irene Boutique, a size-inclusive fashion boutique in Mashpee Commons. With 10+ years in retail, she worked in various roles, from sales associate to operations manager and sales manager. In 2021, she left her corporate career to launch her boutique, providing personalized customer service and curating stylish, inclusive clothing for women of all sizes.

Lucas Eckman

Lucas is a remote web engineer living in Eastham with his partner and their two young children. With a background in investment research, real estate, and live events, he's worked with Morning Consult since 2020. Lucas is a two-time college dropout, an avid cyclist, and a budding gardener.

Mariah Fidalgo

Owner of Wild Water Collective which curates handmade items from 80 artists, Mariah Fidalgo was born and raised in Orleans MA. She never ever thought she'd be back, let alone open a store in her home town. Mariah has worked as a costumer and textile effects artist for film, tv, Broadway and ballet. 

Mara Glatzel

Marais a coach, podcast host, and the author of Needy: How to Advocate for Your Needs and Claim Your Sovereignty. She teaches fellow needy humans to uncover the most vulnerable and true expressions of themselves, and learn how to deeply tend to their needs.

COREY HENDRICKS

Corey, a 3rd-gen shellfisherman from Barnstable and a member of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe, owns and operates Duck Island Shellfish Company, a 2-acre intertidal farm raising oysters and quahogs. Inspired by his father and grandfather, Corey gradauted from Massachusetts Maritime Academy with a degree was Environmental Protection and Safety with a concentration in Marine Biology. He now lives with his wife, son, and their dog and cat in Hyannis.

Alexandra Jannello

Alex is a native New Yorker with a background in education, communications and recruiting. She joined the team at Cape Cod Art Center with the goal of expanding the National Association of Digital Artists, the first national organization committed to the digital art medium. She now does this in tandem with communications and marketing for CCAC.

Missy Jones

Missy is a Cape local turned shopkeeper. After working for Wicked Thrift for 10 years, she bought the business in 2023. Wicked Thrift is dedicated to connecting people with pre-loved pieces at great prices to keep existing items in rotation and out of landfills.

Jess Kowal

As a nonprofit administrator at Farming Falmouth, Jess blends her business expertise with a passion for sustainable agriculture. With experience in startups and operations, she focuses on efficiency and community engagement to support farmland conservation and local food systems. Raised on a West Texas farm, she has cultivated gardens from California to Falmouth.

Ashley Lancaster

Ashley, owner of Hot Diggity, has been helping pets thrive since 2008. With a focus on top-tier nutrition and holistic care, she’s built a passionate community of pet lovers and experts—all working toward healthier, happier lives for dogs and cats. She lives in Barnstable with her husband and their dogs.

Alex Lang

Born and raised on the Cape and a true lover of New England, Alex started her career in floriculture at Cape Cod Tech. She continued her education at Stockbridge University and interned in six shops over the years. In 2019, she worked with Bob, the former owner of Lily's Florist in Yarmouth, to become the new owner!

Dylan Leary

Dylan is the founder of Love Farms, an organic farm in West Dennis, focused on regenerative agriculture and community-centered food systems. With a farm-to-table restaurant opening in 2025, he blends his Culinary Institute of America education with sustainability and community building.

Sarah Manion

Sarah is the executive director of Calmer Choice. She holds a B.A. from Swarthmore and an M.A. from RISD and spent nearly a decade in Africa, leading multi-sector projects. She is an ordained member of the Order of Interbeing, and an advocate for advancing work cultures that align external missions with internal values and practices. She balances her nonprofit work with a deeply rooted mindfulness and fiber arts practice that helps keep her in relationship with the earth and many things that bring her joy.

Tiffany Maxey

After spending 13+ years as a CPA, Tiffany has embraced a more creative and community-centered life. She serves as operations director for Love Live Local and runs Salty Duck Art Studio, a private paint night business that brings people together for fun, laid-back art experiences with a bold twist. Leaning into her creative side has been more than just a career shift—it blends her love for connection, self-expression, and the joy of creating something meaningful.

Kelly McKenna

After graduating from Emerson College in 2021 with a degree in Media Arts Production, Kelly moved back to her hometown and began her career at Cape Media Center. As a producer, she has written 50+ episodes, her goal is to provide relevant, accessible news at the hyperlocal-level.

Lori Meads

Lori leads Seamen’s Bank, overseeing a team of 70+ employees dedicated to quality financial services and community support. She supports organizations like Habitat for Humanity and the Homeless Prevention Council and previously served as president of the Community Development Partnership. Lori holds a Business Administration degree and an MBA and is a recipient of the Banker and Tradesmen’s Community Bank Hero Award.

EMILY MULLANE

Emily is a Wealth Management Consultant and Certified Financial Planner® with Axial Financial Group. She has been in the wealth management business for 11 years and prior to that did bookkeeping and taxes for many businesses on Cape Cod. She is passionate about helping her clients achieve their goals through financial education. Born and raised in Falmouth, she is grateful to be raising her own children here. She volunteers with We Can as a financial empowerment coach in their Hyannis office.

Samantha Notick

Sam is a museum professional specializing in collections management, curation, and exhibit design. At the Cape Cod Maritime Museum, she oversees the exhibit design, creation, and installation, as well as managing the care and organization of the museum's collection. She has been using Canva for the past several years as part of her ongoing goal to make exhibits as accessible, engaging, and interactive for all.

HALEY O'NEIL

Haley is the program manager for CARE for the Cape and Islands, where she works to bring community members, advocates, and business owners together around the shared goal of reducing plastic waste. In 2023, Haley successfully brought two articles to Yarmouth’s town meeting to reduce single-use plastics.

Kat Pannill

Kat is the senior development manager at WE CAN. A proud wash-a-shore, she made Cape Cod her home in 2022. She serves on the CCYP Summit Committee, volunteers as a Big Sister, and enjoys building meaningful connections. In her free time, Kat recharges with friends, family, and her beloved dog Pemberly.

Keah Perry

Keah is a proud single mom of two daughters and the owner of Create A Splash, a glow paint splashing studio she founded 2 ½ years ago. With a background in office management and sales, she gained valuable business and customer service skills. Passionate about creativity and cherishing special moments, she created a fun, hands-on experience where people of all ages can unleash their creativity and make lasting memories. Balancing business and motherhood has taught her resilience, and she aims to inspire others to chase their dreams.

Josh Regan

Josh is an assistant vice president and branch manager at The Cooperative Bank of Cape Cod, with over eight years of banking and customer service experience. An active outdoors enthusiast, Josh lives in Wareham with his fiancé, Ashleigh, and their border collie.

Calli Remillard

Calli moved to the Cape and started at The Falmouth Enterprise as a reporter after graduating from Northeastern University in 2021. She has since assumed the editorship of both The Bourne & Mashpee Enterprise newspapers, becoming the youngest editor in the newspaper's history.

Kaitlyn Rhue

Kaitlyn is a marketing expert with 20+ years of experience in digital marketing, brand development, and strategy. She’s led major website overhauls and drives growth through customer-focused strategies. She currently serves as the Marketing Director at Cape Associates. A Massachusetts native, she lives in Sandwich with her family and enjoys reading, traveling, and event planning.

Jon Richardson

Jon is a Provincetown-based musician, composer, and storyteller with a deep love for theater. Best known for his piano bar performances at Tin Pan Alley and the Crown & Anchor, he’s also one half of a folk duo with Peter Donnelly and has produced multiple albums—both his own and in collaboration with others.

Daniel Rodrigues

Danny is the Director of Substance Use Disorder and Outreach Programs for Duffy Health Center. He co-chairs the Barnstable County Regional Substance Addiction Council and participates in Cape Cod coalitions. With degrees in Psychology and Social Work, he is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with a Perinatal Mental Health Certificate.

Jared Rogers

Jared Rogers is the Director of Resource Development for the United Way of Greater Plymouth County.  He has a passion for forging connections to help serve those in the local community. Prior to the nonprofit space, Jared was engaged in the  craft beverage world, most recently with Cape Cod Beer!

Annisha Romney

Annisha has been a Cape resident for over 30 years and holds a B.A. in Mathematics and Women's Studies, along with a Graduate Certificate in Women in Politics and Public Policy. With experience in hospitality, community organizing, and information sciences, Annisha serves as the Technology Support Specialist for CLAMS.

Tyler Rost

Tyler holds a Master’s in Contemporary Performance and specializes in content creation, strategy implementation, and supporting Cape Cod businesses and the community at DeLude Communications. Outside of work, Tyler enjoys exploring the Cape with his dog, Trident, and watching the Boston Bruins.

Ella Sampou

Ella is CDP's community organizing manager. She has experience in agriculture and aquaculture, land conservation, community and youth climate organizing, and teaching high school civics and history. At CDP, Ella conducts outreach, training, and education for the Lower Cape community.

Brandon Simmons

Brandon Simmons, M.S., is a Career Counselor at Cape Cod Community College with a background in Industrial-Organizational Psychology. Passionate about fostering inclusive professional communities, he helps individuals navigate career exploration, job readiness, and professional growth. Drawing from lived experiences, he advocates for diverse connections, collaboration, and opportunities that empower individuals to thrive.

Kenard Smith Jr.

Kenard is a 25-year-old tailor and fashion designer and the visionary behind Ken Tailor Designs. Starting as a self-taught abstract artist, Kenard transitioned to fashion in July 2023, bringing his passion for creativity, craftsmanship, and sustainability into every garment he creates. At Ken Tailor, Kenard specializes in bespoke, one-of-a-kind pieces tailored to reflect individuality and style.

Mary Catherine Starr

Mary Catherine Starr is a graphic designer, author, illustrator, yoga teacher, and the artist/content creator behind the popular Instagram account @momlife_comics. Mary Catherine's work (and her recently-release book, MAMA NEEDS A MINUTE!) focuses on the challenges of marriage, motherhood, double standards, and inequality in both the household and the workplace. She is passionate about speaking up for women and bringing awareness to the mental load + invisible labor of motherhood. Mary Catherine lives on Cape Cod with her husband and two children.

Lydia Stormwind

Lydia is a marketing associate at Shepley Wood Products and commutes from Fairhaven. She’s a UMass Dartmouth graduate who played field hockey and thrives in team environments. When not working, she enjoys staying active at the gym, going for walks, and meeting friends for drinks.

Peter Theoharidis

Growing up an athlete and avid fitness enthusiast, Peter decided to stick to what he knew best and pursue a career in personal training. Although a challenging career path, he chose it as the best means for him to improve his business acumen, grow his interpersonal skills, and most importantly help change lives for the better. Outside of his full time work as a fitness professional, Pete is either is either in the weight room, the outdoors, playing sports with friends, or spending time with family.

Brett Tolley

Brett is a co-founder and general manager of the Chatham Harvesters Cooperative. He was born and raised in Chatham to a multi-gen fishing family. For 15 years he worked at the North American Marine Alliance, advocating for healthier fishing communities and marine ecosystems. Brett has served on the local boards of Cape Cod Children's Place and CDP and started Chatham 365 to promote year-around sustainable living. 

Caitlin Townsend

Caitlin grew up lobstering out of Provincetown with her father. Passionate about the fishing industry and environmentalism, she graduated from Massachusetts Maritime Academy. Now creating a program for end of life fishing gear in New England, Caitlin spends a lot of time working with the commercial fishing and marine industries, promoting sustainability within the fleets. She serves as the New England Representative for Net Your Problem.

Jasmine Valdes

Born in Florida, Jasmine moved to the Cape in 2020. She has worked in the restaurant industry since age 13 and, just over a year ago, transitioned to a career at Housing Assistance. On the weekends, she bartends at Hog Island—can’t leave the restaurant life just yet!

Jen Villa

Jen is an artist and entrepreneur. After opening the Little Beach Gallery in 2009, she co-founded Love Live Local and opened The West End. She's a proud board member of both the Hyannis Main Street Business Improvement District and Cape Wellness Collaborative.

Zavia Walker-Empey

Zavia is a creative entrepreneur, educator, coach, and stylist passionate about helping individuals express their best selves through style and strategy. As the founder of the Zavia Walker lifestyle brand and creative leader of Pop Up Street, Zavia blends her expertise in fashion, culture, and personal development to empower professionals to align their image with their career goals.

Maggie Ward

Drawing from her diverse background in corporate leadership and personal development, Maggie is passionate about creating accessible opportunities for individuals and communities to heal, connect, and thrive. She is dedicated to fostering collective wellness and supporting others in building lives of joy, resilience, and meaningful impact.

Elizabeth York

Elizabeth is the development manager of the Cahoon Museum, previously serving as the executive director of the Cape Cod Maritime Museum. She attended Ithaca College, graduating with a Bachelor’s in Art History and earned a Master’s in Museum Studies from John F. Kennedy University.