The 6th Annual AWM Connects mentorship program will be held virtually on Wednesday, December 2, 2026 at 12pm ET (9am PT).
Applications are now open. The deadline to apply is 5pm ET (2pm PT) on Friday, November 6th. Please email info@allwomeninmedia.org with questions.
AWM Connects is an exciting virtual mentoring program designed for media professionals at every stage of their careers. Whether you’re just starting out, exploring a career change, or ready to advance to the next level, the program connects you with senior-level executives across television and streaming, radio, podcasts, and digital media.
The experience connects mentees and mentors in the one-time group event which includes breakout sessions for more in-depth conversation. Individuals are connected after the event based on interest and experience for an opportunity to talk one-on-one. In addition, each mentee will receive a complimentary AWM membership.
Mentors for past AWM Connects programs have been members of the AWM and AWM Foundation Board of Directors as well as high-level executives specifically selected to match up with the mentees that apply for the program.
If you or your company is interested in supporting this unique mentorship program, please contact becky.brooks@allwomeninmedia.org.
Praise for the AWM Connects program from Mentees:
“The AWM Connects program exceeded my expectations for mentorship because the mentorship goes beyond the day we all meet as a group. I think it is wonderful and so helpful that AWM takes the time to match mentees with mentors for a one-on-one meeting after the initial AWM Connects program event.”
Asha Moore Smith, Multimedia Producer, UDC TV
2025 AWM Connects Participant
“I believe that if you want something, you have to work for it; but no one succeeds entirely on their own. Support from others, even just through advice or camaraderie, is what helps each of us grow on our individual paths. I think there’s importance in feeling value, and connecting with a relatable community could foster an otherwise unknown road or sense of purpose. Plus, of course, there is a lot of meaning in having an advocate(s), and the AWM Connects Program is an invaluable resource for cultivating relationships that could only help one excel professionally.”
Jullie Wollenberg, National Partnerships & Promotions Coordinator, iHeartMedia
2025 AWM Connects Participant
“A piece of advice that I received in AWM Connects was that our skills are multi-purposeful. We have the ability to use our skills not only in radio, but in tv, social media, marketing, public relations, brand management, etc.. When we are let go/are looking for work, we have options. We are not limited. We are learning in an industry that provides us the tools to be multifaceted. This also allows us to connect with our audience in a variety of ways.”
Kira Kathleen, Creator and Host of Finding My Perfect Awkward Podcast
2024 AWM Connects Participant
“I’ve already built a connection with many of the women from this program, and I’ve been able to reach out to my mentors at any time, and they’ve been so gracious with giving me feedback. I’m so grateful that I decided to take part in this mentorship. I feel that as an on-air personality, I’ve already grown, and I am looking at things in a new light based on the advice of my mentors.”
Alexandra Ali, On-Air Personality, CMG Long Island/106.1
2024 AWM Connects Participant
“My motivation to join the AWM Connects program stems from a strategic intent to expand my network of accomplished women in media. After attending a Gracies Luncheon, I was inspired by the remarkable women I encountered, recognizing the immense knowledge-sharing potential within this community. I aspire to integrate my experiences and skills into Cabana Media’s vision, leveraging the invaluable learnings cultivated through the AWM Connects program.”
Ana Sarmiento Wandt, CEO, Cabana Publishing, Inc.
2023 AWM Connects Participant
“As a reporter for the past 19 years, I’m trying to navigate the next step in my career and looked to AWM for advice. During the Connects program, I received a suggestion from an AWM board member that I used. It worked! I was able to make some progress. I’m looking forward to connecting further with my assigned AWM mentor.”
Kristin Thorne, Investigative Reporter, WABC
2023 AWM Connects Participant
“I applied to the AWM Connects Program in hopes of connecting and learning from a supportive community of like-minded women within the media industry and I was met with passion and dedication from an incredibly welcoming group. My mentor has truly been an inspiration and has provided me with valuable insight on how to advance my career along with advice tailored to further my skill set.”
Marie Kittler, Video Producer, StudioNorth
2022 AWM Connects Participant
““During our program kick-off, someone shared the advice that you’re never going to get anything if you don’t give, and I’ve been thinking about that quite a bit. Although it was virtual, it was so easy to open up to other women during the program kick-off and I look forward to connecting with my assigned mentor very soon!”
Erin Dunlap, Chief of Staff, Central Revenue Organization, Audacy
2022 AWM Connects Participant