Betzaida Vargas is no stranger to the word “no.”

No matter how many times people tell you no, keep believing in you and your idea!

With the encouragement she received at The Global Leadership Summit, she has been equipped and inspired in her leadership to “do more and do it better” for the sake of the women in her ministry.

The Global Leadership Summit reminds leaders they are not alone.

“I received a lot of 'Nos' since I founded Samaritana del Pozo (Samaritan Women from the Well) five years ago,” said Betzaida. “None of them discouraged or stopped me from pushing forward, but I’ve often felt alone facing the opposition. The Summit reminds me that I’m not alone!”

Stories told at the GLS often remind leaders of the behind-the-scenes struggle to the highlight reel of success. While facing much opposition, IT Cosmetics founder and GLS21 faculty, Jamie Kern Lima, reminded our audience to continue to believe in themselves and their idea, no matter how often they hear the word no. “After listening to Jamie Kern Lima, I couldn’t wait to get home to do a Facebook Live with our followers to tell the women we serve, ‘no matter how many times people tell you no, keep believing in you and your idea!’” exclaimed Betzaida. “I am more resilient after attending the Summit, after knowing all of the obstacles that many other leaders endure. While listening to the speakers, I daydream that one day my story will also empower others.”

Samaritana del Pozo is inspired by Betzaida’s own life experiences and the Samaritan woman at the well story from John 4 in the Bible. “When I’m tired, when others look at me like I’m not worthy enough, I remember the Samaritan woman leaving the water jar, running with enthusiasm towards the village after meeting Jesus,” said Betzaida. “She had a message to share with others and nobody was going to stop her. That’s me, running happily to recruit other women to keep this 'water' going. I will never give up as God entrusted me with this!”

The Global Leadership Summit empowers leaders to multiply their service.

Through the ministry of Samaritana del Pozo’s over the last five years, they have expanded their reach globally. With almost 400,000 followers and thousands of support groups and Bible studies, they’ve been able to support women in more than 70 countries.

“Every day, I have the blessing of connecting with women from different races, nationalities, backgrounds and cultures,” said Betzaida. “I also have a leadership program called Samaritana Army, and I use it to develop and multiply leaders who can then go on to empower other women. In our monthly meetings, women from 15-18 countries get together to learn and share our experiences!”

With over 400 5-star reviews, the testimonies reflect life-change through Samaritana del Pozo.

“I’m overwhelmed by the impact, love and appreciation I receive from the women we help,” said Betzaida. “This is priceless.”

“God entrusted me with a precious ministry,” said Betzaida. “Before this ministry, I was a loser, a mess. Now I’m an international leader, but not just any leader…a Christian leader. Sometimes I can’t believe it. I never imagined that I was fit or capable of teaching, influencing and being a leader to other women. I will be 50 years old this year and I’m proud to report that my life is totally different from what I was expecting after all past chaos in my life. I’m living my purpose and I’m enjoying every minute of it.”

“I’m grateful for the GLS and the wonderful and inspiring program that has empowered me in my leadership! I realized that I have influence and that my leadership matters!”