Young Professionals of Iowa exists to connect young professionals and young professional organizations across the state in order to better learn and grow – together. View some of our current and past events below, and be sure to connect with us on social media for more updates and promotion of events hosted by Iowa organizations across the state. If you would like to receive notification of upcoming events with YPIowa or have an event in your area that you would like us to help promote, please contact us.
OUR NEXT Event
YP COMMUNITY FORUM
Quarterly Virtual Discussion Series
YPIowa's Community Forum is a virtual discussion open to any individuals who are currently serving in a leadership position within a community/regional YP organization, or those who wish to reprise or begin a local organization. The goal of this meeting is to help foster a connected network of YPOs in Iowa, share best practices and resources, and assist one another as we continue to serve YPs across Iowa.
UPCOMING Events
What People See Before They Meet You: Building Your Personal Brand Online
May 21, 2026 | 12:00 - 1:00 p.m.
If someone looked you up online today, what would they learn about you?
In today’s digital and AI-driven world, your personal brand is often your first impression. From LinkedIn profiles to everyday online activity, how you present yourself online can shape opportunities, influence connections, and impact your career growth in meaningful ways.
Join Lauren Minert, Human Resources Manager at Kunkel & Associates in Dubuque, Iowa, for an engaging and practical session on building a strong and authentic personal brand. With experience leading recruiting, employee experience, and campus outreach initiatives, Lauren brings a unique perspective on what employers notice and value when evaluating candidates online. She is passionate about helping individuals better understand what drives them and how to align that with opportunities where they can thrive.
In this session, Lauren will break down what personal branding really means and how to develop a presence that reflects who you are while positioning you for future success. She will also explore how to use AI tools effectively to enhance your brand without losing your voice. Attendees will gain insight from real examples of what works and what does not, along with simple, actionable steps they can implement immediately.
Outside of her professional role, Lauren runs a lifestyle and dog-focused social media brand, @laurenandpenny, where she partners with national brands and shares everyday life with her goldendoodle, Penny. This firsthand experience adds a practical, real-world lens to the strategies she shares.
Whether you are just starting to think about your online presence or looking to refine an established brand, this session will provide valuable tools and perspectives to help you stand out with intention.
ANNUAL Events
YPIOWA CONFERENCE
Annually each fall
Young Professionals of Iowa hosts an annual fall convention each year, inviting YPs from across the state. The one-day conference removes distance barriers between Iowa's current and emerging leaders - serving as a unique opportunity to connect and learn as a collective. The conference features dynamic speakers and workshops, along with the chance to network with peers across Iowa.
Do you want YPs at your event? Email us for us to share your event with our network through email and on social media.