Introduction

Dare to Overcome 2022 was the Religious Freedom & Business Foundation’s annual in-person global gathering to celebrate businesses that inspire mutual respect and allyship among diverse communities in the workplace and marketplace. Why? It’s good for business, the economy, and society! At the annual gathering, top business leaders, Fortune 500 faith-oriented employee resource groups (ERGs), and corporate chaplains came together to share best practices and to build supportive, intersecting networks nationally and globally.

Student Reflections

For many BYU–Hawaii students, attending the Dare to Overcome Conference in Washington, D.C. was nothing short of life-changing. It offered a rare opportunity to explore how faith, business, and human dignity intersect in meaningful ways. Several students described it as “transformative,” not just professionally, but personally. Schuyler Chamberlain shared how meeting Dr. David Paschane opened the door to a legal internship with the Indian Health Services, a perfect fit for his interests in law and behavioral health. “Despite our remote location, we were able to interact with large corporations and professionals,” he said. “It changed how I see myself and my future.” For Rachel Akana, the event highlighted the power of integrating faith into professional spaces. “The Conference felt collaborative, not transactional,” she said. “It helped me feel confident bringing my whole self to work.”

Others echoed that sense of belonging and inspiration. Misieli Peaua emphasized the unity she felt as diverse religious leaders came together in prayer after the Texas mass shooting. “It was a powerful reminder that religion can be a resource for peace,” she said. Students like Killian Canto and John Lidang noted how the Conference celebrated religious identity as a strength in the workplace, highlighting tools like Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and corporate chaplaincy. “Acceptance through ERGs and chaplaincy empowers employees to be open about their beliefs without fear,” said Killian. John added, “It reminded me to be authentic about my faith at work—it’s not just allowed, it’s valuable.”

The event also left students reflecting deeply on pluralism, identity, and community. Jonah Gunter described the Conference as “a faith-promoting professional environment,” where stories of struggle and resilience across faiths created a sense of mutual respect. “There was a gentle, confident power in people of faith coming together,” he said. John Zenger shared a memorable moment involving setting up a Muslim prayer space—an experience that taught him how difficult, yet necessary, it is to navigate religious diversity thoughtfully and respectfully. “The Hindu and Sikh prayers ended with ‘Peace, peace, peace,’ and that really stayed with me,” he said.

For students like Jane Sandberg, the experience was also a continuation of ongoing work. As an intern for the Religious Freedom & Business Foundation, she had already been researching how religion is often missing from corporate DEI initiatives. “Working on the REDI Index helped me see how important it is to recognize religion as part of human dignity,” she said. Interns like Amber Helfrich and Andrea George also found inspiration in their roles—balancing responsibilities while forging lasting connections with professionals across industries. “I stepped out of my comfort zone and grew through every conversation,” said Amber. “I hope this kind of opportunity continues for future students.”

Despite a few logistical suggestions—like more time for networking or clearer scheduling—the overall message was clear: this conference was a powerful catalyst for change. Gavin Cranney appreciated how the event balanced faith and professionalism, and Connor Hansen emphasized the value of seeing pluralism in action. “As a man of faith with corporate aspirations, this experience gave me hope for the future,” he said.