The keynote panel of four women highlighted how lived and living experience can become a powerful source of leadership, advocacy, and hope. Flo shared her journey from HIV-related stigma, addiction, and incarceration to healing through Indigenous ceremony and peer mentorship. Hadiza described how peer support helped her navigate Canada’s healthcare system as a newcomer and inspired her to advocate for immigrants facing language and cultural barriers. Pam reflected on overcoming homelessness, incarceration, and addiction to become a leader amplifying marginalized voices. Grace recounted 32 years of living with HIV, transforming stigma into education and community building. Together, the panel emphasized resilience, self-acceptance, peer support, and turning personal struggles into purpose.