Category: Chapter Spotlight

Leading Ladies, an Independent Women’s Network initiative, showcases and honors women who make a significant impact in their communities and beyond. Join us in sharing their inspirational stories and celebrating their remarkable achievements!

Geeta is a bold leader based in East Greenwich, Rhode Island. An immigrant from India and a strong advocate for limited government, health freedom, and strong families, she plays a key role in building community and advancing conservative values through the Independent Women’s Network. We admire Geeta’s thoughtful leadership, courage, and commitment to creating meaningful impact for women and families.

We asked Geeta…

Where do you live?

East Greenwich, Rhode Island

How did you get involved with IWN? 

I was introduced to Independent Women’s Network by Mike Stenhouse from the Rhode Island Center for Freedom and Prosperity. Mike brought together 8-9 women from across Rhode Island with shared conservative interests. We met and quickly realized we all needed the support and friendship that came with being a part of the Rhode Island Chapter of IWN.

The IWN Rhode Island Chapter is composed of women from a variety of backgrounds, interests and experiences that have come together to make a difference in our state and local communities by disseminating information through events and activities that advance our values on topics ranging from education to responsible government interaction. We share a belief in the importance of strong families and communities

We learned of the variety of activities and interests each of us were involved in and decided that we could enhance our efforts by working together and starting new initiatives on issues we care about.

Our goal is to create a community of like-minded women in Rhode Island who promote conservative values, inspire engagement, foster connection, and provide networking opportunities that impact policy issues affecting women and families.

Where do you fit politically?

My political interest came as a result of my children being involved in conservative politics in Washington DC. I am conservative in my views on my family and also in my approach to fiscal policy. I believe in small government and feel that it is the responsibility of each person to be responsible for achieving outcomes . My husband and I are both immigrants from India. We value the opportunities given to immigrants and have worked hard to make a life in the US.

Have you changed politically over the years?

I have worked in higher education for many years. Over time I have seen the effects of progressive policies applied to higher education in the form of DEI initiatives and advising practices. These policies and agendas do not help students. This was when I became aware that my values aligned more with the conservative movement. During the covid years, I became distrusting of health care and the push for mandated vaccines and other initiatives that made no sense. That is when I became a member of the steering committee of the World Council for Health New England (WCH – New England) with an interest in working toward health freedom and informed knowledge for health choices.

What do you consider the most important issues facing our country today?

I strongly support President Trump’s actions to hold Ivy League institutions and other universities and colleges accountable for the effects of DEI and CRT initiatives. There is a lot of financial waste when grant funds are diverted towards   administrative activities to support initiatives that ultimately hurt student learning. Scrutiny is long overdue and needed. The expansion of DEI initiatives across higher education, particularly its effects on research grant applications, coursework, faculty and staff hiring, and admissions, raised serious concerns for me and motivated me to speak up and become actively involved in pushing  back. Health Freedom is another issue I believe is critically important. I am on the steering committee of the World Council for Health New England (WCH – New England), where I am focused on advancing  health freedom and informed decision-making  around health choices. Given the large amounts of money in health care, there is a real risk of corruption and misaligned priorities that warrant greater transparency.

How do you spend your free time?

I have two children that live in the Washington DC area. I am often visiting them and helping with their new babies. I love doing this and also enjoy my time traveling with my husband to India and other places around the world.

My family is spread throughout the US. I am often traveling to  visit them and attend family get-togethers for various celebrations and events. We also enjoy gathering with friends for Indian religious and cultural events.

When did your Chapter launch?

March 2022

How many members are in your Chapter?

12-15

What are the main issue areas and goals of your Chapter?

While education is one of our primary focus areas as a group, chapter members are also engaged in issues relating to CRT/DEI initiatives, energy and wind energy, transportation, and voter integrity activities in the state–all under the broader goal of building strong families

A few of our members are involved in activities related to health freedom and informed decision-making around health choices.

We have built a community of like-minded women in Rhode Island that promotes conservative values, encourages engagement, connection, and impact on policy issues affecting women and families.

Leading Ladies, an Independent Women’s Network initiative, showcases and honors women who make a significant impact in their communities and beyond. Join us in sharing their inspirational stories and celebrating their remarkable achievements!

Stephanie Cross is a principled leader based in McMinnville, Tennessee. Known for her strong conservative values and clear-eyed perspective on the issues facing American women today, she brings a steady and thoughtful voice to every conversation. We admire Stephanie’s commitment to truth, her dedication to empowering women, and her passion for strengthening our nation’s future.

We asked Stephanie…

Where do you live?

McMinnville, Tennessee

How did you get involved with IWN? 

I first learned about IWN after watching a Fox News segment featuring Gabriella Hoffman, Director of the Center for Energy and Conservation. I was inspired by her message and reached out to connect with her personally, which led me to learn more about IWN and how to get involved. I quickly joined the organization to support its mission of empowering independent women leaders. One year later, I’m honored to now serve on the CEC Advisory Board and continue advancing the conversation around energy, leadership, and opportunity for women across the nation.

Where do you fit politically?

I am a conservative through and through. I believe our nation was founded by Godly men and on Godly principles that continue to guide our freedoms today. My values are deeply rooted in faith and a desire to honor the Lord in all I do. Just as Exodus 31:3 says, “And I have filled them with the Spirit of God, with ability and intelligence, with knowledge and all craftsmanship,” I believe every gift and opportunity I’ve been given comes from Him. That is who I am, and how I strive to be seen—in all things, to represent my Lord and Savior with excellence, integrity, and grace. This same conviction guides my leadership, my work, and the purpose behind every project I pursue.

Have you changed politically over the years?

I have not changed politically over the years. My beliefs and convictions have always been rooted in biblical truth and conservative values. While the world around us continues to shift and embrace ideals that often contradict God’s Word, my foundation remains firm. I will always stand for faith, family, freedom, and the principles that honor the Lord and the way our nation was originally established. My hope is to be a light in a culture that desperately needs truth and moral clarity.

What do you consider the most important issues facing our country today?

The most important issue facing our country today is that we have become a nation that no longer reveres God. Without Him, we lose our moral compass and our sense of direction. Proverbs 29:18 says it perfectly: “Where there is no vision, the people perish.” When a nation loses its spiritual foundation, there is no restraint, and depravity follows. Restoring Godly principles, truth, and moral leadership is the only way we can rebuild the foundation and secure the future of this great nation.

How do you spend your free time?

Free time… what’s that? All jokes aside, I stay very busy, but whether I’m working or taking a rare break, my heart is to inspire others and shine God’s light in a lost and broken world. I love spending time with my family and my horses and dogs—they’re a huge part of my life! When I do have a moment to slow down, you’ll find me on horseback, riding through nature and soaking in the beauty of God’s creation. That’s where I find peace, perspective, and renewed purpose.

Leading Ladies, an Independent Women’s Network initiative, showcases and honors women who make a significant impact in their communities and beyond. Join us in sharing their inspirational stories and celebrating their remarkable achievements!

Irina Edelstein is an inspiring leader based in Brooklyn, New York. Having grown up in Soviet Russia, she offers a powerful and unique perspective on the challenges many Americans face today. We admire Irina’s boldness in speaking the truth and her unwavering commitment to standing up for freedom.

We asked Irina…

Where do you live?

Brooklyn, New York

How did you get involved with IWN? 

In the spring of 2024, I met Carrie Sheffield and shared my concerns about a men-only migrant shelter that was set to open right next to my children’s school. As a parent, I felt unheard and deeply worried about the potential risks this posed, especially given the limited security measures and lack of accountability from city leaders. Carrie immediately connected me with IWN, and to my amazement, the story quickly gained attention. I was invited to appear on Dr. Phil, and IWN produced a feature documentary to shine a light on the issue. Since then, I’ve been incredibly blessed to connect with fearless, inspiring women from across the country through IWN. It’s been a powerful and empowering journey.

Where do you fit politically?

I’ve always seen myself as an independent and used to avoid political news. Growing up in Socialist Russia taught me not to rely on the government, and I carried that mindset until COVID made me realize how much voting truly matters. To vote in primaries, I chose to register as a Republican because it aligned more with my faith-based views on life and traditional family values.

Have you changed politically over the years?

I don’t blindly follow politics, I examine each issue through a biblical lens. Not all Republicans or Democrats are the same, and political views often depend on local issues. Generalizing isn’t helpful because it shuts down honest conversations. As a mom in NYC, I’ve found that even moms who vote differently often share the same concerns, and those conversations really matter.

What do you consider the most important issues facing our country today?

One of the biggest issues facing our country today is the deep division among its citizens, often fueled by social media. We need to prioritize in-person conversations that build understanding, trust, and real connection across different views. Social media should be used for entertainment or light engagement, not as the primary place to form opinions or debate serious issues.

How do you spend your free time?

I don’t have much of it – being a mom of three, working full time, and staying focused on creating a healthy, balanced home keeps me very busy. When I do have a moment, I enjoy spending time in nature with my family. And to be honest, I really enjoy sleep because it’s a rare luxury I fully appreciate!

When did your Chapter launch? 

September 2024

How many members are in your Chapter?

7

What are the main issue areas and goals of your Chapter?

Our main goal right now is to support families in NYC who feel left out or silenced when it comes to healthcare, education, and public safety concerns. I aim to be both a listening ear and a source of encouragement for parents who hold traditional values. We’re also engaging in conversations around the mayoral elections, working to highlight the rise of socialist agendas and why they’re deeply concerning for the future of our city.

Leading Ladies, an Independent Women’s Network initiative, showcases and honors women who make a significant impact in their communities and beyond. Join us in sharing their inspirational stories and celebrating their remarkable achievements!

This month, we highlight Monica Yelin, a proud member of Independent Women’s Phoenix, Arizona Chapter. Monica leads with conviction and a commitment to common sense ideas that make a difference locally and beyond.

We asked Monica…

Where do you live?

Phoenix, Arizona

How did you get involved with IWN? 

I was invited by Christy Narsi to several events, and that opened the door for me to connect with other women who share my values. From the beginning, I felt at home with the Independent Women’s Network because it aligns closely with my lifelong conservative principles.

Where do you fit politically?

I have always leaned conservative.

Have you changed politically over the years?

While I have always leaned conservative, about 25 years ago, I experienced a profound shift, and I became pro-life. That conviction has guided my work ever since, particularly in areas such as family, community, and policy issues that impact future generations.

What do you consider the most important issues facing our country today?

The three issues I care most about are education, safety, and the economy. These are the foundations for strong families and thriving communities. Whether it’s protecting parental rights, ensuring public safety, or creating economic opportunity, I believe these priorities are inseparable from the American Dream.

How do you spend your free time?

My husband and I love traveling, road trips, hiking, and discovering clear blue lakes. We also enjoy watching movies and documentaries together. Volunteering is an important part of our lives, too; it’s both rewarding and a way to connect with others. To me, service is more than giving back; it’s part of building strong social bonds.

Leading Ladies, an Independent Women’s Network initiative, showcases and honors women who make a significant impact in their communities and beyond. Join us in sharing their inspirational stories and celebrating their remarkable achievements!

This month, we introduce you to Independent Women’s Southern New Hampshire Chapter Leader, Bronwyn Sims. Like many women, the rise of men invading women’s spaces led Bronwyn to question long-held beliefs and embrace truth over trends. Once Bronwyn took action, she never looked back.

We asked Bronwyn…

Where do you live?

Nelson, New Hampshire

How did you get involved with IWN? 

I became involved with the Independent Women’s Network because I am passionate about making a real difference for women in New Hampshire. As an athlete and a women’s gymnastics coach, I witness the challenges women face—in sports and beyond—which drives my commitment to protecting our rights. IWN truly inspired me with its mission to restore civility and common sense to important conversations, and I found their community both educational and uplifting. The organization connects strong, like-minded women (and their supporters) who share resources and ideas, helping each of us find the courage and knowledge to speak out and take action. I want to empower other women to stand up for our rights, knowing we have a supportive network behind us. 

I first learned about IWN through social media and networking, and I reached out to gain support and guidance on how to address policies in our legislature that are undermining women’s rights. My goal is to inspire, educate, and empower women in New Hampshire to speak out against these injustices and advocate for meaningful change.

Where do you fit politically?

I’m an Undeclared, Independent voter in the state of New Hampshire. I like to think of myself as someone who can get along with anyone and everyone no matter where they stand politically, or who they vote for. I lean more conservative/ moderate but basically I’m a common sense, truth seeker. I base my choices and decisions in reality and go from there. I appreciate being an Independent because I can look at both sides with a critical eye.

Have you changed politically over the years?

Yes, my political views have changed significantly over the years. I was a Democrat and voted that way for many years, but in 2019, I decided to “walk away” after realizing I had not truly questioned or researched what I believed—I was simply following along with what the media and those around me were saying. This awakening was challenging but ultimately empowering, as it pushed me to think for myself and seek out the truth behind the issues. I discovered the #WalkAway movement and found a supportive community there, which inspired me to become a volunteer. I am now the New Hampshire State Chapter Leader for the #WalkAway Campaign, dedicated to helping others think independently and make informed choices.

What do you consider the most important issues facing our country today?

Some of the most urgent issues our country faces include restoring a healthy economy and making homeownership and the American dream attainable for more families. I worry deeply about the crisis at our southern border, and I appreciate the tough stance President Trump has taken to secure it, combat drug cartels, and address illegal immigration—I know these are complicated problems that will take time to resolve. The rise in crime, homelessness, and the heartbreaking reality of sex and human trafficking are issues that cannot be ignored, as they cut to the very core of our communities. I am also passionate about defending women’s rights by ensuring that women’s sports and spaces remain exclusively for women, and that fairness and safety are protected. Finally, I believe we must restore common sense and stability in our country—addressing the mental health crisis, cleaning up our health care system, and bringing good jobs back to America are essential steps towards a brighter future for all.

How do you spend your free time?

When I’m not coaching girls’ and women’s gymnastics or leading a yoga class, you’ll most likely find me chasing adventure in the great outdoors—whether I’m trail running through the woods, scrambling up New Hampshire’s 4,000-foot White Mountain peaks, or plunging into one of our sparkling lakes for a swim. I love turning the world upside down with handstands and aerial arts, and I’m just as happy at the range perfecting my aim with my bow or firearms. Gardening is another passion of mine; there’s real joy in growing flowers, herbs, and an abundance of fruits and veggies. My creative side keeps me busy too—from launching my own podcast and YouTube channel to painting, drawing, and capturing life through photography. With a background in theatre and a love for improvisation and character creation, I believe life should be lived with curiosity, a little quirkiness, and a lot of heart.

When did your Chapter launch?

September 10, 2025

How many members are in your Chapter?

14

What are the main issue areas and goals of your Chapter? 

We are still forming our chapter here in NH and clarifying our goals but here are a few that we plan to work on. The main goal for the New Hampshire State Chapter is a focus on advocating for legislation that truly protects and supports women and girls in our state. We are committed to advancing policies that benefit women, children, and parents, including education, parental rights, and improving the affordability of housing and essential goods.

Another important goal is to educate and inspire not only women and girls but also men and boys across New Hampshire, helping build a more informed and engaged generation. Our chapter is dedicated to combating sex, child, and human trafficking in the state. We provide resources and information about the critical issues facing women and girls, collaborate with other grassroots organizations, and work tirelessly to uphold the values of truth, common sense, and New Hampshire’s proud “Live Free or Die” spirit.

Leading Ladies, an Independent Women’s Network initiative, showcases and honors women who make a significant impact in their communities and beyond. Join us in sharing their inspirational stories and celebrating their remarkable achievements!

Leading with courage and conviction, New York City Chapter Leader Aundrea Amine has cultivated a powerhouse community – 97 members strong. Her chapter thrives on open dialogue, genuine connections, and purposeful action, confronting the issues that matter most to New Yorkers and equipping them to make an impact.

We asked Aundrea…

Where do you live?

Miami and New York 

How did you get involved with IWN? 

During the lead up to the presidential election in 2020, I was struck by the extreme polarization in the country. I began searching for a way to have well-informed, reasonable and productive conversations with other women about the important issues we are facing. Social media and conventional media create echo chambers that foster the demonization of the “other side,” leading to entrenched positions on both sides of the issues. This has reduced or eliminated the exchange of different points of view and the ability to find collaborative solutions. IWN provided the perfect forum.

Where do you fit politically?

I believe in personal freedom and respect for the dignity and rights of others. We need to look beyond identity politics to address economic inequality, ensure quality, non-ideological education, public safety and secure borders. Enhancing capitalism rather than resorting to wealth redistribution and growth of the government and administrative state offers the best opportunity for prosperity. I believe in fiscal responsibility and reject Modern Monetary Theory, which leads to unlimited budget deficits.

Upholding the values essential for a civil society requires affirming the power of markets and private enterprise as a source for growth. In addition, we need strong institutions, families, communities, and democratically elected officials.

A strong military is essential in these times of heightened geopolitical risk, in addition to being a good partner to our allies. However, I think the country needs to better define its nation interests.

Have you changed politically over the years?

I have always taken my civic duties seriously but after college, focused more on my career. Over the last decade or so, I have become more disillusioned with the direction of the country and its institutions and have gotten more involved in trying to have an impact and make a difference.

What do you consider the most important issues facing our country today?

There are many significant challenges facing our country today. We need to improve the quality of education, restore faith in our institutions, preserve and promote traditional American values, increase border security, rein in government spending, and mitigate the polarization of our society.

How do you spend your free time?

I enjoy spending time with family, long walks listening to podcasts, reading, and travel.

When did your Chapter launch?

We had planning meetings in the fall of 2021 and our first chapter meeting was on January 26, 2022

How many members are in your Chapter?

97

What are the main issue areas and goals of your Chapter? 

We focus discussions on local and national issues of concern and on ways to make an impact.