#FollowFriday IWD Scholarship + Community
Building a community of leaders, colleagues, and friends by creating opportunities for professional women to build the future together.
Project Description
Building a community of leaders, colleagues, and friends by creating opportunities for professional women to build the future together.
Help us close the gender gap and create equal opportunities for success by donating to our #FollowFriday: Creating the Future Together Scholarship and Mentorship Program. This initiative is dedicated to supporting women in their professional journeys, providing them with resources, support, and a powerful network. Our goal is to create a vibrant and empowering community where talented female professionals can share best practices, build relationships, and unlock their full potential. With your support, we can bridge the gender divide and make meaningful change for all. Thank you!
Our mission is to create a platform for growth and career advancement for ambitious professional women. We strive to provide access to resources, opportunities, and a diverse and powerful female network. Our goal is to foster an environment where talented professional women can share best practices, build relationships with like-minded peers, gain valuable skills and knowledge, and unlock their full potential in their chosen fields of work. Together we can bridge the gender divide by creating more opportunities for women.
Women are still lagging behind men professionally. Despite the many advances made towards eliminating gender bias, we continue to face an imbalance that has resulted in a lack of opportunity for professional growth and advancement. There is an urgent need to bridge this gap by providing a platform to support women and their ambitions and growth. With your help, we can provide the resources and support necessary to create a vibrant and empowering space for talented female professionals at all levels to share best practices, build critical networking relationships, and gain valuable skills and knowledge.
The market size or opportunity for a program such as this is immense. White women earn 83 cents for every dollar earned by men in similar positions. The pay gap for minority women is even greater, with Black and Hispanic women earning 79 to 80 cents for every dollar earned by men. This wage gap creates a gender-based economic disparity that needs immediate attention. With your help, we can create meaningful change with long-term impacts on professional women across all industries.
The #FollowFriday International Women’s Day Conference and broader #FollowFriday community provide a platform to support professional growth and career advancement for professional women. In 2023, we hosted the inaugural #FollowFriday conference, drawing 150+ attendees from across the United States for a day of networking, support, learning, and community building. Attendees overwhelmingly expressed excitement for a day of true learning, actionable takeaways, and genuine connection.
One of the most important components of the day was our ability to invite 10 young women who are early in their career to attend the conference as recipients of the 2023 #FollowFriday: Creating the Future Together Scholarship. After receiving generous support from two incredible women who are friends and supporters of the community she created, Robyn Addis was able to design an opportunity for these outstanding young women to attend the inaugural event. The award recipients were paired with incredible female leaders who served as conference ambassadors and mentors to these attendees.
We are seeking funding to support our 2024 #FollowFriday International Women's Day Conference - Creating the Future Together scholarship and mentorship program, which will bring together women from all career levels with young women entering the workforce. And new for the 2024 conference, we are also seeking to invite women who have taken a career break and who are looking to reenter the professional sphere to participate in the program as well. The funds will be used for providing upskill resources, orchestrating a mentorship program, and developing a robust network for these and all conference attendees. This includes covering costs related to speaker fees, travel expenses for panelists/scholarships for recipients of these programs. Additionally, some of the funds could also go towards developing digital platforms or leveraging social media in order to reach and engage more potential participants interested in advancing their professional skill sets while creating equal opportunities for success. Ultimately, we plan on using this funding as an investment into helping create a gender-equal world through our mission of inspiring and empowering professional women.
Our Advisory Board is composed of experienced and passionate professionals with diverse backgrounds. We have various members who are C-suite executives, entrepreneurs, social activists, and academics that work together to achieve our mission of providing a platform for professional growth and career advancement for aspiring and established women. We count on the expertise of industry leaders across many industries such as finance, technology/startups/ventures capital, banking & insurance; engineering; marketing & communications; legal & compliance etc., who support our efforts in building an environment where talented female professionals can achieve career fulfillment and success.
We are immensely grateful for all of our campaign backers who contribute to the success of our #FollowFriday International Women's Day Conference as well as the Creating the Future Together scholarship and mentorship program. Your generous support will enable us to bridge the gender divide by providing equal opportunities for success. Your contributions make it possible to create a vibrant and empowering space where these women can share best practices, build relationships with like-minded peers, and unlock their full potential. Our goal is to eliminate the existing gender bias in the workforce as well as close the wage gap between genders which affects millions of people around the world. Thanks to your support, we are one step closer towards achieving this goal.
Updates
The Campaign FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the #FollowFriday International Women's Day Conference?
The #FollowFriday International Women's Day Conference is an annual event that celebrates and supports the advancement of women in all levels of their professional journeys. The Conference brings together successful women, including those just beginning their careers or those re-entering the workforce after a break, to learn from role models, form meaningful relationships with mentors and peers, and gain knowledge on career pathways. Through our scholarship and mentorship program, we strive to empower each other through knowledge sharing and skill building. Help us create a better future for women everywhere by joining our crowdfunding campaign!
Who can participate in the program?
The scholarship program is open to all women, including those just beginning their careers, re-entering after a break, or already working in the professional sphere. We invite women from all career levels and backgrounds to join us and participate in this program. Additionally, successful women from all industries can also become mentors/conference ambassadors and share their experience with our attendees. Together we can create a better future for women everywhere!
How are mentors (also known as conference ambassadors) selected?
Mentors for the #FollowFriday International Women's Day Conference are carefully selected based on their expertise, commitment to inspiring and empowering other women, and years of experience in their respective fields. Potential mentors go through a vetting process by our advisory board in order to ensure that they have the motivation for mentorship and genuine interest in helping women advance their career. The mentors will also be available throughout the entire conference to provide support and guidance to all attendees. We believe this is the best way to ensure that every attendee can benefit from having an experienced mentor with them during their journey at our event.
Who pairs mentors and scholarship recipients?
The advisory board of the #FollowFriday International Women's Day Conference carefully selects mentors and pairs them with scholarship recipients. Potential mentors must go through a vetting process to ensure they have the motivation to mentor and a genuine interest in helping women advance their careers. The mentors are available throughout the entire conference to provide support and guidance for all attendees.
How does the crowdfunding campaign work?
The crowdfunding campaign works by allowing individuals and organizations to make donations that will support the 2024 #FollowFriday International Women's Day Conference - Creating the Future Together scholarship and mentorship program. The funds raised through donations will be used for scholarships, mentoring, and other expenses related to the event. Donors can select their preferred donation amount. Their support of this program helps create more opportunities for women from all career levels to benefit from this inspiring event. Every contribution is a much appreciated vote of confidence in the value of this program, and makes huge strides toward creating a better tomorrow for women everywhere!
What are some of the benefits for donors who contribute to this campaign?
Donors who contribute to this campaign will have the satisfaction of knowing that their donations are helping to create more opportunities for women from all career levels. Their contributions will provide scholarships, mentoring, and other expenses related to the event that will support its success. Additionally, donors can select their preferred donation amount and receive recognition through our social media channels in appreciation of their generous contribution.
How will funds be used to support women participants in this conference and mentorship program?
Funds raised through donations will be used to provide scholarships, mentoring, and other expenses related to the event for women from all career levels. The funds will help create more opportunities for them to benefit from this inspiring conference and its accompanying mentorship program. Additionally, donors who contribute to the crowdfunding campaign can select their preferred donation amount and receive recognition on our social media channels in appreciation of their generous contribution.
How can I get involved with or support this initiative besides donating money through the crowdfunding campaign?
Besides donating money through the crowdfunding campaign, you can also support this initiative by becoming a mentor or by spreading awareness of the event and the scholarship program. Becoming a mentor requires going through vetting process by our advisory board. You can also help promote the event on social media, inform other people about it using word-of-mouth or any other creative methods you come up with! This will help generate more attention and donations for the #FollowFriday International Women's Day Conference - Creating The Future Together scholarship program. Every contribution is an invaluable vote of confidence in its success! Oh, and last but not least, you can join us at the 2024 conference on March 7 and 8 in King of Prussia, PA.
Where will the conference take place, and when will it occur?
The #FollowFriday International Women's Day Conference will take place on Thursday, March 7 and Friday, March 8, 2024. The conference will be hosted at The Alloy Hotel in King of Prussia, PA.
Is there an age limit for participating women attending this event/program?
No, there is no age limit for participating women attending this event/program. Women from all career levels and backgrounds are invited to join, including those just beginning their careers, re-entering after a break or already working in the professional sphere. The only requirement is that they must be able to benefit from this program by connecting with mentors and learning new skills during the conference.
Can non-profits, educational institutions, or businesses become sponsors of this event/program?
Yes, non-profits, educational institutions, and businesses can become sponsors of this event/program. Sponsorship packages are available for organizations that wish to support the #FollowFriday International Women's Day Conference - Creating The Future Together scholarship program. Sponsors will be recognized on our social media channels and other promotional materials as an acknowledgement of their generous contribution. To learn more about sponsorship packages or to become a sponsor for this event/program, please visit our website, or contact us directly!
Just Because I Care
Our way of saying thanks - BOLO for a shoutout on one of our digital channels!
If you're lucky, you might actually get a real-life in person hug too! 🤗
There's nothing like scribbling like to-do list for the day in a great journal. Our libretto journal has a fabric cover and an elastic closure - the perfect place to jot down those great business ideas!
Enjoy this great multipurpose bag with thick stripes and rope handles around town or to carry your essentials to the beach!
Size: 13-1/4" H x 18" W x 6-3/4" D
This light-weight sweatshirt is made of 5.3 oz., cotton/polyester with 1x1 ribbing at the collar, waistband, and cuffs. Available in heather grey.
A practical and fashionable way to carry your essentials, this belt bag offers a large main pouch and hidden zipper pocked for added security.
Waterproof interior PVC coating. Zipped mesh pocket on inside. Carrying handles. Removable shoulder strap.
Charge your phone without the hassle of tangled cords. Simply place your phone vertically or horizontally on the support ledge-and presto-power up! Compact and lightweight, toss it in your travel bag and use as a stand to watch movies, take a call, or video chat all while charging your phone.
Claim this reward and receive a 10% discount on one 2024 #FollowFriday Conference registration!
Compatible with: Apple iPhone: XS Max, XS, XR, 8 Plus, 8; Samsung Galaxy: S10, S10+, S10e, Note 9, S9, S9+, Note 8, S8, S8+, S7, S7 Edge, Note 5, S6, S6 Edge; LG: G8, G7, V50, V40, V30; Google: Pixel 3, Pixel 3 XL; Microsoft Lumia: 950, 950 Dual SIM, 950 XL; BlackBerry: Priv Full Color, 1 Location.
Made of stainless steel and incredibly useful! It fits all your favorite 16oz craft cans, comes with an adapter for 12oz cans, and with one quick switch turns into a 16oz pint glass. This is perfect for picnics, barbecues, tailgating, and more!
Claim this reward and receive a 10% discount on one 2024 #FollowFriday Conference registration!
LOCK IN THE HEAT. The BruMate Toddy, is the world's first 100% leak-proof, insulated mug with a handle designed for your favorite hot drinks at home or on-the-go. Includes new DrinkLock Technology with a fully leak proof locking lid, so you can take your beverage wherever, whenever. The Toddy is your versatile, go-to mug, from toddies to coffee and everything in between. Works with cold beverages, too!
Claim this reward and receive a 10% discount on one 2024 #FollowFriday Conference registration!
Show your #FollowFriday love on vacation with this bundle, which comes with a #FollowFriday canvas tote and one BruMate Hopsulator TRiO 3-in-1 can holder.
CLAIM THIS REWARD AND RECEIVE A 20% DISCOUNT ON ONE 2024 #FOLLOWFRIDAY CONFERENCE REGISTRATION!
Stay comfortable and enhance your work setup -- wherever you are -- with this work essentials bundle which includes one #FollowFriday canvas tote bag, a Brumate 32oz Toddy XL Mug, and one PowR Stand 2.0 Wireless Charging Pad!
CLAIM THIS REWARD AND RECEIVE A 20% DISCOUNT ON ONE 2024 #FOLLOWFRIDAY CONFERENCE REGISTRATION!
Have your weekend essentials at your fingertips with this bundle: A light-weight raglan crew neck sweatshirt, a #FollowFriday duffel bag, and a BruMate Hopsulator TRiO 3-in-1 can holder!
CLAIM THIS REWARD AND RECEIVE A 20% DISCOUNT ON ONE 2024 #FOLLOWFRIDAY CONFERENCE REGISTRATION!
Ever wish you had an hour with an expert who could help you jump start your personal branding? Or an hour to pick someone's brain about your content and how to get the best exposure and grow your following? Look no further! With your featured contribution, you have a one-hour all access pass to Robyn, her digital marketing expertise, and personal branding guidance to help you elevate your personal brand!
Claim this reward and receive one free 2024 #FollowFriday Conference registration!
Rewards
Just Because I Care
Our way of saying thanks - BOLO for a shoutout on one of our digital channels!
If you're lucky, you might actually get a real-life in person hug too! 🤗
There's nothing like scribbling like to-do list for the day in a great journal. Our libretto journal has a fabric cover and an elastic closure - the perfect place to jot down those great business ideas!
Enjoy this great multipurpose bag with thick stripes and rope handles around town or to carry your essentials to the beach!
Size: 13-1/4" H x 18" W x 6-3/4" D
This light-weight sweatshirt is made of 5.3 oz., cotton/polyester with 1x1 ribbing at the collar, waistband, and cuffs. Available in heather grey.
A practical and fashionable way to carry your essentials, this belt bag offers a large main pouch and hidden zipper pocked for added security.
Waterproof interior PVC coating. Zipped mesh pocket on inside. Carrying handles. Removable shoulder strap.
Charge your phone without the hassle of tangled cords. Simply place your phone vertically or horizontally on the support ledge-and presto-power up! Compact and lightweight, toss it in your travel bag and use as a stand to watch movies, take a call, or video chat all while charging your phone.
Claim this reward and receive a 10% discount on one 2024 #FollowFriday Conference registration!
Compatible with: Apple iPhone: XS Max, XS, XR, 8 Plus, 8; Samsung Galaxy: S10, S10+, S10e, Note 9, S9, S9+, Note 8, S8, S8+, S7, S7 Edge, Note 5, S6, S6 Edge; LG: G8, G7, V50, V40, V30; Google: Pixel 3, Pixel 3 XL; Microsoft Lumia: 950, 950 Dual SIM, 950 XL; BlackBerry: Priv Full Color, 1 Location.
Made of stainless steel and incredibly useful! It fits all your favorite 16oz craft cans, comes with an adapter for 12oz cans, and with one quick switch turns into a 16oz pint glass. This is perfect for picnics, barbecues, tailgating, and more!
Claim this reward and receive a 10% discount on one 2024 #FollowFriday Conference registration!
LOCK IN THE HEAT. The BruMate Toddy, is the world's first 100% leak-proof, insulated mug with a handle designed for your favorite hot drinks at home or on-the-go. Includes new DrinkLock Technology with a fully leak proof locking lid, so you can take your beverage wherever, whenever. The Toddy is your versatile, go-to mug, from toddies to coffee and everything in between. Works with cold beverages, too!
Claim this reward and receive a 10% discount on one 2024 #FollowFriday Conference registration!
Show your #FollowFriday love on vacation with this bundle, which comes with a #FollowFriday canvas tote and one BruMate Hopsulator TRiO 3-in-1 can holder.
CLAIM THIS REWARD AND RECEIVE A 20% DISCOUNT ON ONE 2024 #FOLLOWFRIDAY CONFERENCE REGISTRATION!
Stay comfortable and enhance your work setup -- wherever you are -- with this work essentials bundle which includes one #FollowFriday canvas tote bag, a Brumate 32oz Toddy XL Mug, and one PowR Stand 2.0 Wireless Charging Pad!
CLAIM THIS REWARD AND RECEIVE A 20% DISCOUNT ON ONE 2024 #FOLLOWFRIDAY CONFERENCE REGISTRATION!
Have your weekend essentials at your fingertips with this bundle: A light-weight raglan crew neck sweatshirt, a #FollowFriday duffel bag, and a BruMate Hopsulator TRiO 3-in-1 can holder!
CLAIM THIS REWARD AND RECEIVE A 20% DISCOUNT ON ONE 2024 #FOLLOWFRIDAY CONFERENCE REGISTRATION!
Ever wish you had an hour with an expert who could help you jump start your personal branding? Or an hour to pick someone's brain about your content and how to get the best exposure and grow your following? Look no further! With your featured contribution, you have a one-hour all access pass to Robyn, her digital marketing expertise, and personal branding guidance to help you elevate your personal brand!