Featured General Speakers for Tuesday, April 8, 2025:
"Inspiring Connections: Building Bridges through Relationships"

The 26th International Families and Fathers Conference is not just a gathering; it's a transformative experience that you don't want to miss. Our opening day sets the stage for three days of learning, connection, and inspiration, guided by the powerful theme of 'Inspiration.' Day 1's speakers will lead us on a journey of building meaningful connections, reminding us that relationships lie at the heart of our work.

Morning General Session Highlights:

Thao Tran – Welcome Opening Speaker & General Session Moderator
Hailing from Melbourne, Australia, Thao Tran brings a global perspective to the work of family support. Known for her compassionate leadership and tireless advocacy for vulnerable communities, Thao will officially open our conference and serve as the moderator for the morning session. Her unique ability to foster dialogue that connects the head and heart will ensure that this session inspires introspection and action. Thao's presence will anchor the day, guiding us through a series of presentations that resonate deeply while highlighting the importance of relationships in transforming lives.

Julie Lowen – Remarks Speaker
As the founder and CEO of Children's Paradise Preschool and Infant Centers in Vista, California, Julie Lowen has dedicated her life to the next generation. Julie's commitment to creating inclusive, high-quality learning environments has touched thousands of children and families. In her remarks, Julie will share her insights on building strong educational and emotional foundations for children. Her message will challenge us to think expansively about our role in shaping future generations, emphasizing how every connection we make can improve a child's trajectory.

Tom Krause – Keynote Speaker
Renowned for his captivating storytelling and relatable approach, Tom Krause of Kansas City, Missouri, will be our Day 1 keynote speaker. His address, titled "When It Comes to Building Bridges, You Make a Difference!" promises to be a defining moment of the day. Tom's experience as a motivational speaker is rooted in authenticity, and his message will challenge us to reimagine our roles as bridge builders in our communities. Through personal anecdotes and profound insights, Tom will leave us with a renewed sense of purpose and a powerful call to action: to step boldly into our roles as connectors, nurturers, and champions of family well-being.

Thao Tran, Julie Lowen, and Tom Krause will lay a strong foundation for the conference, setting the tone for three days of connection, collaboration, and lasting impact. As we embark on this journey, they will encourage us to engage with one another, share our experiences, and ignite the inspiration needed to make a difference in the lives of families worldwide.

Prepare to be inspired, uplifted, and ready to create meaningful change.

This session starts our 26th International Families and Fathers Conference - Building Bridges with an emotional impact of each speaker while reinforcing the theme of connection and inspiration.