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 brought 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 culminated 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.
Save the Date
See you next year on June 23, 2027.
If you’re interested in sponsoring or participating, please contact minda@yfj-consulting.com.
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
2026 Session Themes
The Symposium consists of one “track.” In 2026, it featured the following in-depth sessions that 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
2026 Keynote Conversation Panel
SPONSORED BY
LUNCHTIME
This year’s Keynote Conversation featured 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.
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
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
2026 Speakers Included
Sponsors
Champion/Keynote Conversation
Supporter
Friend of WOC
Advocate
Praise
“It was truly an honor to be invited to participate as a panelist and, for the very first time, to support an event as a sponsor! Being able to contribute made this year’s event especially meaningful for me — a milestone in some ways as I’ve now been in practice and back in NYC for ten years!
The day brought together an incredible community of leaders, fundraisers, philanthropists, and changemakers. I left feeling so moved by the thoughtful conversations, innovative ideas, new connections, and the simple joy of reconnecting IRL with so many colleagues and friends from over the years! It was a wonderful reminder of the strength, generosity, and leadership that exists within this community.”
—Symposium Attendee
“The entire day. Taking the time to be intentional to pour into myself in the ways that I have today.”
—Symposium Attendee
Past Symposium Recap
