Tulsa, Okla. — The Oklahoma Small Business Exchange (OKSBE) will welcome a diverse group of Oklahoma women business leaders on Wednesday, September 16, for FutureOK Forum: Women Leading Oklahoma, a special luncheon focused on leadership, entrepreneurship, business growth, and the experiences shaping Oklahoma’s economic future.

The 90-minute FutureOK Forum will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at DoubleTree by Hilton Warren Place in Tulsa. The forum is part of OKSBE’s FutureOK Forum series, which brings together business leaders, industry experts, and community partners for thoughtful conversations about the issues and opportunities shaping Oklahoma’s economy.

“Women continue to make a significant impact across Oklahoma’s business and entrepreneurial community,” said Erik-Michael Collins, Senior Managing Director of the Oklahoma Small Business Exchange. “The forum looks beyond where Oklahoma is today by creating meaningful conversations about where we are headed. Bringing together leaders with different backgrounds and experiences gives us a broader perspective on the ideas, opportunities, and people who will shape the next chapter of Oklahoma business and commerce.”

The Women Leading Oklahoma forum will feature six Oklahoma business leaders representing a range of industries and entrepreneurial experiences:

• Ilana Velazquez, Co-Owner, Sisserou’s Restaurant & Catering

• Whitney Stauffer, Partner, Narrate Design

• Kimberly Honea, Managing Partner, Varia Hospitality Group

• Zunaira Ali, EVP, Loan Manager, Arvest Bank

• Candis George, Owner, TD Collaborative

• Arquicia Franklin, Owner, Afra Company

The discussion will explore the experiences of women leading businesses and organizations across Oklahoma, including the opportunities, challenges, lessons, and perspectives that come with building and leading in today’s business environment.

The forum will begin with attendee check-in, networking, and lunch from 11:30 a.m. to noon, followed by welcome remarks and introductions. The featured FutureOK Forum discussion will take place from 12:15 to 12:45 p.m., followed by an interactive question-and-answer session and closing remarks.

Event Details:
FutureOK Forum: Women Leading Oklahoma
Wednesday, September 16, 2026
11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
DoubleTree by Hilton Warren Place
Tulsa, Oklahoma

The FutureOK Forum is part of Connect 2026 presented by Arvest Bank, whose support underscores a shared commitment to advancing small business growth and economic opportunity across Oklahoma. For additional information or media inquiries, please contact Jameson Bennett at jameson.bennett@oksbe.com.

For registration and additional event information, visit the FutureOK Forum page.

About the Oklahoma Small Business Exchange
The Oklahoma Small Business Exchange (OKSBE) connects local entrepreneurs, business owners, and professionals to foster relationships, drive growth, and support entrepreneurship. Created by Oklahoma businesses, OKSBE promotes innovation, economic development, and small business partnerships. By providing a hub where businesses can engage with one another, OKSBE facilitates an environment that fuels local economic initiatives and promotes small business prosperity.

About Arvest Bank
With more than $27 billion in assets, Arvest is a full-service bank delivering financial solutions to individuals and businesses of all sizes. Since 1961, Arvest has been committed to providing financial solutions that help communities thrive and grow. Today, the bank has more than 200 locations throughout Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kansas and Missouri. Arvest is an Equal Housing Lender and Member FDIC. To learn more, visit arvest.com.