

Back in 2014, when Kiya Tomlin set out to “design the impossible” through her sustainable clothing brand, she couldn’t possibly have known that a decade down the line she would be turning a major NFL event into a red-carpet moment. In the brightly lit conference hall of The Breakers Hotel in Palm Beach, Florida, the worlds of football, fashion, and female power players collided in the best way possible. And in the middle of it all? Kiya Tomlin. Fashion designer. Businesswoman. And yes, wife of Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin—though she’s very much her own powerhouse.
She showed up and showed out, holding her own alongside basketball star Caitlin Clark and tennis icon Serena Williams. If there was ever a moment that screamed, “This is what leadership looks like,” it was this one. So, what brought this trio of legends together? Normally, the NFL Annual Meeting is more business than buzz. But this year, it hit differently. A panel titled “The Changing Face of Sports and Its Impact on the NFL” brought major star power. Moderated by Mellody Hobson (part-owner of the Denver Broncos), the talk featured Kiya, Caitlin Clark (fresh off a Rookie of the Year win), Serena Williams (23-time Grand Slam queen and business mogul), and even NFL legend Eli Manning.
And the convo? All about the rise of women in sports—and how the NFL is actually investing in that momentum. Think women’s flag football in the 2028 Olympics, more female execs and coaches, and serious support for women-led initiatives. Kiya shared an Instagram post featuring a picture of Mike Tomlin and herself standing next to Serena and Caitlin at the event. The caption read: “To stand beside women who have redefined the game—on the court, in business, and beyond—was something I’ll never forget. It was more than a moment; it was a reminder of what’s possible when women lead, lift, and own their power. 🔥🚀” Mic. Drop.
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This wasn’t about ticking diversity boxes. It was about showcasing real influence—and how women are reshaping the entire landscape. On Sunday, March 30, Kiya walked into the NFL meeting and owned it. Known for her sleek, comfy-yet-boss-chic clothing line, she brought that same energy to Palm Beach. And her vibe? Totally intentional. And the fans? They’re loving every bit of it.
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When the NFL goes full girl power
The NFL’s shift toward spotlighting women isn’t just symbolic—it’s part of a bigger cultural move. Women are stepping into coaching roles, ownership seats, making waves, and turning heads in every direction. And the fans know it too. They have flooded Kiya’s comments with love and support. From “Bravo Kiya!” to “Power Circle!! 🔥🔥”, it’s a complete experience. One fan wrote “Experience at its best 💖💖💖💖”, while others kept it simple with “Absolutely amazing 🔥👋🏾” or “Legandary!!”

via Imago
Image Credits: Imago
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Mike Tomlin also shared his support for his lady love with a heartfelt comment, “I am lucky I was allowed to stand beside these three incredible women. So proud of all, @kiyatomlin does.❤ ” There was even a cool full-circle moment between everything that happened. Serena’s husband, Alexis Ohanian, finally met Caitlin, after she once named Serena her dream dinner guest. (Manifestation works, people.) Caitlin and Serena even matched in bold red fits—because, of course, they did. Serena posted, “Yesterday was a blur and all about the future of women,” tagging Caitlin and Eli. “I love the future of women, don’t you?”
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This year’s NFL Annual Meeting wasn’t just about the next football season. It was also about rewriting the playbook—on leadership, style, and what it looks like when women run things. Kiya Tomlin didn’t just show up—she made a statement. So did Serena. So did Caitlin. As one fan wrote,“All the while looking amazing! 👋🏾❤” while another wrote, “This is awesome!!!🤩”. To all the love, Kiya humbly responded, “Couldn’t agree more – such an inspiring moment!”
So, the takeaway? When women show up together, support each other, and lead with purpose, the impact is massive. Fashion, sports, business—there are no sidelines anymore. Just women owning every space they walk into.
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Is the NFL's focus on women genuine progress or just a PR move? Share your thoughts!