A little spritz of rain didn’t stop the Wnet New York City Chapter from gathering on the evening of June 7 for a networking and panel event at Mastercard’s NYC Tech Hub. What was scheduled as a rooftop event was quickly relocated, but even the rainy wind could not blow aside the energy and excitement in the room from the group of more than 40 women who came together to connect and learn more about RiseUp.

 

With appetizers and drinks kicking it off, the ladies of Wnet quickly caught up before attending a panel hosted by Wnet Board Member and Wnet RiseUp Committee lead Jess Turner, who is responsible for Global Open Banking and API at Mastercard.

 

Jess was joined by RiseUp alumni Chilli Chilwan and Amber Dawkins, and Wnet Member Kathy Kmiotek of FortisPay, who was also part of the most recent RiseUp Cohort. RiseUp is a global program focused on helping women unlock the next steps in their careers, no matter what stage they are at, by providing the network, tools and techniques needed to help them strategically advance and level-up in the industry. More than 60% of RiseUp participants are women of color.

 

As Chilli shared, RiseUp allowed her to “find her tribe” of women who still keep in touch regularly; a sisterly cohort where individuals set career goals and are held accountable by those who have also been through the program. Amber spoke about how RiseUp helped her get a promotion and instill confidence in herself resulting in her becoming a mentor and a leader. And Kathy tied it all together, talking about the benefits of being both a RiseUp alum and part of the Wnet network. She shared the importance of not only having a seat at the table, but working hard to stay there, and knowing she deserves to be there. 

 

The conversation continued around the importance of networking, sharing and receiving constructive feedback, speaking up for those who are not in the room, and continuous learning – and just how essential all of these pieces are as you move throughout your career. 

 

A discussion that could have gone on for hours wrapped-up with numerous questions from the audience as well as a shout out to some special RiseUp alumni guests who came to the event to support the panelists. We’re looking forward to more Wnet NYC Chapter in-person events to continue important dialogues around women advancing in the workplace while supporting and empowering each other to rise up and succeed.