Lessons to My Younger Self

This session is designed for professionals of all ages and stages that are struggling to find their footing in 2020. As a survivor of domestic abuse, multiple career changes and challenging personal romantic relationships, Melva will provide a framework for managing doubt, discuss and debunk fears we all struggle with, and outline an approach to begin living life on your terms.

About Melva

Melva LaJoy Jones, CMP, DES, Founder & Lead Event Planner, LaJoy Plans

Melva LaJoy Jones is the Founder of LaJoy Plans, a DC based boutique events management company. She has coordinated events in almost every major city in the United States, for audiences as large as 60,000 people, budgets in excess of $1M per day, and over 250 conferences. As a trained educator, Melva provides clients with feedback about content design and curriculum structure.  

Melva has authored two event planning guides outlining best practices for pageants, fashion shows, outdoor festivals, and youth conferences. Additionally, she is the recipient of many awards acknowledging her event planning work, but she is most proud of being one of the first women to receive the American University/Women & Politics Institute/Alice J. Paul award for her work in designing a community rally to support college-aged survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence.  Melva is known for her love of people, high energy, culinary event experiences, unique laugh, creativity and her tenacious work ethic. When not planning events, Melva can be found in the boxing ring, spending time with her parents, or enjoying trips with her beloved Emmanuel.