A Night of Networking
This January, Girls Inc. of Alameda hosted the first Women of Impact (WOI) and Alumnae Networking Event. In our recent Alumnae Survey, our alumnae told us they wanted opportunities to grow their professional networks and connect with both other Girls Inc. alumnae and women who support the organization and are invested in the girls’ success. Over 35 Women of Impact and alumnae of all ages joined us at the Simpson Center for a successful evening of conversation and connection.
The evening started with dinner and all the women introducing themselves. Our Women of Impact talked about their professional experience, and our alumnae brought us up to speed on their education and careers. Breaking up into small groups, attendees asked questions and shared career advice. Both alumnae and Women of Impact were encouraged to seek out attendees who had backgrounds and talents of interest to them.
Nicole Franklin, an operations professional at BART, appreciated the event. “This is a great opportunity to connect with other Women of Impact in the organization, and also to be able to offer advice and insight to the girls. It’s nice to see how they are all progressing in their careers.”
Tayo Ogunmayin, an alumna studying civil engineering at UC Davis, is grateful she is for her Girls Inc. experience. During her years at Girls Inc., Tayo overcame shyness and bullying, and found her love of science and engineering. While reflecting upon her experience in college and her plans for internships and future career goals, she said, “I would not be where I am today without Girls Inc.”