The Women of Impact Summit, a cornerstone initiative of Delivering Good's 40th anniversary, has transformed from a pandemic-driven adaptation into a leading platform for women leaders across various industries. Launched three years ago by Andrea Weiss, the summit now serves as a catalyst for empowering the next generation of female leaders through networks, insights, and tools. This year’s event at the Fashion Institute of Design in New York highlights diverse speakers and reflects Delivering Good’s expanded reach beyond fashion.
The summit originated during a challenging time when nonprofits faced fundraising difficulties due to the pandemic. Weiss initiated free seminars that not only maintained community engagement but also revealed the demand for authentic stories and learning opportunities among women. This insight led to the development of an inclusive and dynamic conference designed to inspire leadership with purpose and authenticity.
A Visionary Platform for Female Leadership
This segment explores how the Women of Impact Summit emerged as a pivotal platform during a period of crisis and uncertainty. Initially conceived as a series of virtual seminars, it quickly evolved into a comprehensive program fostering genuine connections and meaningful discussions about leadership. Through innovative strategies, the summit successfully activated a thriving community while raising essential funds.
When traditional fundraising avenues faltered during the pandemic, Andrea Weiss recognized the need for creative solutions. Her introduction of "lunch and learn" sessions provided a lifeline for Delivering Good, keeping the organization active and engaged. These sessions focused on leadership development, philanthropy, and the fashion industry, offering participants valuable insights and networking opportunities. By prioritizing real-life experiences and practical tools, Weiss tapped into a deeper desire among women to connect and learn from each other. As a result, these initial efforts laid the foundation for what would become a powerful movement promoting female empowerment. The success of these early initiatives demonstrated the importance of inclusivity and substance in creating impactful programs that resonate with their audience.
Expanding Influence Across Industries
This section delves into the strategic expansion of Delivering Good's mission beyond the fashion sector. Recognizing the interconnected nature of industries, the organization broadened its scope to include finance, technology, and corporate social responsibility. This diversification strengthened its donor base and enhanced the relevance of the Women of Impact Summit.
Under Andrea Weiss's leadership, Delivering Good transcended its origins in fashion to embrace a broader economic landscape. Understanding that fashion operates within a vast ecosystem encompassing multiple sectors, Weiss strategically sought partnerships and collaborations that extended the organization's influence. By identifying trailblazing women leaders in traditionally male-dominated fields such as finance and technology, the summit enriched its content and appeal. These leaders shared compelling narratives rooted in resilience and purpose, inspiring attendees across generations. Furthermore, Delivering Good leveraged digital platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to amplify its message and engage with diverse audiences. This forward-thinking approach ensured the sustainability and scalability of the Women of Impact Summit, positioning it as a vital force in advancing female leadership across all sectors. Through sponsorship models and ticket donation programs, the summit remains accessible to emerging professionals and students, reinforcing its commitment to multi-generational empowerment.