Meet The Founder
The Rise Within Conference was founded from a deep belief that true transformation begins within.
Our founder created this platform to provide meaningful spaces where people can strengthen emotional wellness, build self-leadership, and grow with intention.
After recognizing how many people silently carry stress while trying to stay strong, the vision for The Rise Within Conference was born.
Today, the mission continues through live events, educational experiences, and empowering conversations that help people lead themselves with confidence.
Stephanie Danso is the Founder and Executive Director of The Fence Cares, a not-for-profit organization committed to promoting equality, and the Founder of The Rise Within Conference, an initiative created to help individuals strengthen emotional wellness, build resilience, and develop self-leadership from the inside out.
With over fourteen years of experience in social services and community work, Stephanie specializes in outreach, mental health, counselling, and community development. She has supported individuals of all ages through education, anger management programs, support groups, and social-emotional learning initiatives.
Stephanie also developed a social-emotional learning program for children aged 7 to 18, equipping them with essential social and emotional skills. This program is currently offered in several elementary schools across the Greater Toronto Area.
Her leadership and community impact have earned her national recognition, including Canada’s Top 100 Black Women to Watch (2024) and multiple awards from the Ontario Social Service Worker Association. Passionate about empowering others, Stephanie is dedicated to fostering wellness, resilience, and positive change through both community advocacy and transformational leadership development.
“I believe healing, growth, and leadership all begin within. My goal is to create spaces where people feel seen, strengthened, and empowered to rise.”
- Stephanie Danso
Our conferences and workshops are ideal for anyone feeling a call to personal growth, seeking to overcome internal barriers, or yearning to live a more intentional life. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a professional, or simply an individual committed to self-improvement, you'll find immense value. Attendees experience a profound transformation, moving from self-doubt to self-assurance, gaining clarity on their life's direction, and building the resilience needed to face challenges head-on. They leave feeling empowered, connected, and ready to lead their lives with renewed purpose and confidence. We invite both women and men to join our empowering community.