LEADING LUMINARIES:
A NIGHT OF GLAMOUR,GRIT & GRATITUDE

Over the past 96 years, the women of NYWICI have been pioneers, shattering barriers for fellow women and nurturing the upcoming generation of female leaders. Their impact extends through personal career achievements, contributions to supported organizations, and the broader world through their impactful work. NYWICI’s Matrix Awards serves as our opportunity to recognize the exceptional leaders in our industry and applaud the brave women who have paved the way and those who will continue to do so.

This year’s theme is Leading Luminaries. Our 2025 Matrix honorees are luminaries who are lighting the path of success and influencing the future. These luminaries are women who are seen and valued. NYWICI is shining a light on those who have paved the way for others to follow. In times of darkness and uncertainty, the luminaries are a beacon of hope and guidance. The light within our honorees showcases their unwavering spirit of human resilience and the power of perseverance. When faced with challenges and adversity, luminaries always keep their eyes fixed on the prize, remain steadfast in their convictions, and they never lose sight of their goals.

Luminaries lead by example, inspire others, and serve the greater good. A luminary is willing to sacrifice personal gain for the benefit of the collective and use their influence to make a positive impact on the industry and community. Luminaries not only achieve great things, but they also leave a lasting legacy. They truly embody the human spirit, making meaningful contributions to the world and are this year’s Matrix honorees.

Our luminaries carry the torch with pride and purpose, illuminating the path for future generations.

Since 1970, NYWICI, the largest organization of professional women in the communications industry in the city, has presented the Matrix Awards. This prestigious event has been dedicated to honoring and celebrating the accomplishments of women in communications and the arts, starting with its inaugural honoree, Gloria Steinem. The Matrix Award specifically acknowledges women who are effecting positive change, fostering community, and serving as inspirations for the next generation of female leaders in their respective fields. Past honorees include influential figures such as Maya Angelou, Halle Berry, Sheryl Crow, Gwen Stefani, Moira Forbes, Tina Fey, Gayle King, Audra McDonald, Sheryl Sandberg, Joanna Coles, Cindi Berger, Dia Simms, and Meredith Vieira. Explore the Matrix Awards Hall of Fame by clicking here.

The 2025 Matrix Awards will be held on May 20, 2025 at the Ziegfeld Ballroom, NYC.

2025 MATRIX HONOREES

MATRIX HONOREE
Leslie Berland
EVP, Chief Marketing Officer, Verizon
MATRIX HONOREE
Teneshia Jackson Warner
Founder and CEO of Egami Group

MATRIX HONOREE
Dustee Jenkins
Chief Public Affairs Officer, Spotify

MATRIX HONOREE
Lucy Kaylin
Editorial Director of Hearst Magazines

MATRIX HONOREE
Nkechi Okoro Carroll
Writer, Showrunner, Producer

MATRIX HONOREE
Kristen Welker
Moderator of NBC’s Meet the Press
MATRIX HONOREE
Bellamy Young
Actress and Advocate

BECOME A SPONSOR AT NYWICI’S 2025 MATRIX AWARDS

 

Interested in sponsoring this year’s Matrix Awards? Take a look at the 2025 prospectus to see all of the opportunities. For submission of ad materials, questions on specs or FTP information contact Donna-Jean Plante, CAE, Executive Director, NYWICI.

Thank You to Our 2025 Sponsors!

Platinum Sponsor

Silver Sponsors

gse

Bronze Sponsors

Dotdash Meredith
Spotify Matrix Sponsor Logos (1)
Burson Wordmark_Pure Black_RGB
Netflix_Logo_PMS
Tik Tok
TCV
trailrunner international
ipg
sjr
ibm
Kaplow Communications
Oglivy Matrix Sponsor Logos

Additional Sponsors

nbc news
UNT
H& R Block Matrix Sponsor Logos

NYWICI’s Scholarship Progam

Every year, NYWICI comes together to celebrate the extraordinary scholarship winners who have demonstrated exceptional talent, dedication, and innovation in their early education and careers.

The Matrix Awards provide a platform to acknowledge and commend the remarkable accomplishments of these individuals. Spanning decades, these awards have become a powerful symbol of empowerment and inspiration for women aiming for successful careers in media, advertising, journalism, and beyond – the very fields our scholarship winners are destined for.

Join us in honoring the brilliance and potential of these future leaders at the Matrix Awards. Together, let’s champion diversity, excellence, and progress in the realm of communications.

Join in backing NYWICI’s Scholarship Program and be a catalyst for transforming the lives of these exceptionally gifted students and professionals! Your support can create a meaningful impact and contribute to their bright future. Find ways to support today

$2.0 M

awarded in scholarships since 1998

380+

young women to date have received scholarships

360+

women have been awarded Matrix awards since 1971

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