Overview • Sessions • Speakers • Keynote • Register • Sponsors • WOC Awards 2026

Welcome to the WOC Symposium 2026

Thinking Outside the Lines: A Bold New Vision for Fundraising and Philanthropy

Creativity. Innovation. Lifelong Learning.

For five years, the Women of Color in Fundraising and Philanthropy (WOC) Symposium has built community, amplified voices, and inspired change. In 2026, we’re bringing our first-ever fully in-person Symposium to New York City for an unforgettable day of connection, learning, and opportunity. This time, in a special endeavor, the day will culminate with the 2026 WOC Awards.

Join women of color, allies, and thought leaders from across the fundraising and philanthropy ecosystem for bold conversations, practical tools, and strategic networking, all designed to move our sector forward. At WOC, we understand that sometimes, we need to think differently and boldly as we look to a bright future together.

Why Attend

Experience our first-ever Symposium fully in-person gathering
Gain insights from leaders who are driving change in philanthropy and fundraising
Build relationships with cross-sector professionals

Who Should Attend

Development & Fundraising Professionals
Philanthropic Advisors & CSR Leaders
Executive Search Firms & Career Coaches
Foundation Staff & Major Donors
Nonprofit Leaders

Session Themes

The Symposium will consist of one “track,” featuring the following in-depth sessions that will each appear on the main stage of the Symposium.

The Symposium offers something for everyone—featuring sessions in:

Fundraising
Philanthropy
Leadership and Organizational Intelligence
Participatory Grantmaking
Executive Search
The Great Debate: A Dialogue on Nonprofit Innovation and Artificial Intelligence

Keynote conversation with Bely Luu, Pinky Vincent, Shauwea Hamilton, and Yolanda F. Johnson

Keynote Conversation Panel

SPONSORED BY

LUNCHTIME

This year’s Keynote Conversation will feature a powerhouse line-up of women who are leading the way in making a positive impact, creating opportunities and changing the lives of women. Join the founder of Amplify Her Foundation, in addition to the co-chairs of the Amplify Her Leadership Network, as we discuss topics related to: how women of color and allies can join forces in amplifying the power of philanthropy, redefining female leadership, perspectives on grantmaking, mentorship vs. sponsorship and more. You don’t want to miss this conversation.

Featuring the following Panelists:

Marti Speranza Wong, Founder & Executive Director, Amplify Her Foundation
Nikita Desai, Senior Philanthropy Advisor, Robin Hood Foundation
Chirlie Felix, Managing Director, FSG
Aamina Awan-Khan, Principal, IMK Advisory LLC

Moderated by Yolanda F. Johnson, Founder, Women of Color in Fundraising and Philanthropy (WOC)

With introduction by Laura Risimini, Senior Director of Grantmaking & Strategy, Amplify Her Foundation

Register

Scandinavia House
58 Park Ave
New York, NY 10016

Early registration is now open. Early Registration Pricing (limited time):

$320.00

$275.00

$375.00

$250.00

WOC Member

WOC Founder's Circle Member

Non-Member

Group Rate (per person, 3+ people)

To purchase group rate tickets, please contact info@yfj-consulting.com.

Spend the Day with Us and Celebrate the 2026 Annual WOC Awards as a Culmination of the day!

All-Day Ticket to both the Symposium and WOC Awards

$415.00

$325.00

$500.00

$330.00

WOC Member

WOC Founder's Circle Member

Non-Member

Group Rate (per person, 3+ people)

To purchase group rate tickets, please contact info@yfj-consulting.com.

Hotel accommodations: We are currently finalizing arrangements with preferred hotel partners and will share booking details shortly.

Registration is non-refundable.

By registering for this Women of Color in Fundraising and Development (WOC)® event, I give consent for my photograph to be taken and possibly used on the organization’s intranet, internet, newsletters, board reports, and other organizational materials as needed. I understand that I am not eligible for compensation for use of my photo and I may not be informed in advance of the specific use of those images.