Every Day is Galentine’s Day with NYWICI
On February 13, 2025, the spirit of sisterhood was alive and thriving at the NYWICI Galentine’s Day mixer, hosted at IBM and sponsored by Hinge. This heartwarming gathering brought together women from all walks of life – friends, colleagues, professionals, and students – to celebrate the power of female friendship and the unwavering support women provide for one another.
New York Women in Communications (NYWICI) has long been a force for connection, mentorship, and professional growth, creating spaces for women to uplift and inspire each other. This event was no different, embodying the very essence of NYWICI’s mission: to foster community, encourage collaboration, and create lasting relationships.
A Toast to Female Friendships
At the heart of the Galentine’s Day celebration was a shared sense of friendship. Attendees enjoyed delicious appetizers and treats, raised their glasses to female friendships, and found joy in being surrounded by a community that sees and supports them.
NYWICI President Brandi Boatner, who also serves as Global Influencer Marketing Lead at IBM Corporate Affairs, led the event with an inspiring message:
“I rely a lot on my female friendships – like every day, maybe every hour, but definitely every day. So, I think it’s important to be surrounded by a community of women who uplift you, who celebrate you, and who help you feel seen and heard because you see them and they see you. I wanted to have this Galentine’s Day event just to give back to the members of this organization that gives back to me every single day. In case you don’t celebrate Galentine’s Day, celebrate your female friendships every single day.”
Voices of Inspiration
The event was more than just a social gathering; it was a testament to the deep and meaningful relationships that were built within NYWICI. Several attendees shared how this community has influenced their lives and careers:
Chelsea Orcutt, Director of Strategy & Operations at Thirty Madison:
“I came to the NYWICI Galentine’s Day event because I think NYWICI really embodies the theme of Galentine’s Day – it’s female friendships, supporting each other both personally and professionally, and I know I have really amazing friends at NYWICI, so it was the perfect blend of all of that to come here today and celebrate.”
Katie Timms, Master’s Student in the Public Relations and Corporate Communications program at NYU:
“I love New York Women in Communications. I always leave these events feeling empowered and inspired hearing other women’s stories working within the communications industry in NYC… Being new to NYC and only living here for about six months, I found such a sense of community, so I am really grateful for this organization.”
Katie also shared how NYWICI has strengthened her friendships:
“NYWICI can find people from the same classes and schools and connect them and help them become friends.” Katie and her friend from NYU attended the event together, celebrating how NYWICI helped them form a close friendship while pursuing their Master’s degrees.
The Transformational Power of NYWICI Friendships
The impact of NYWICI goes beyond networking – it fosters deep, lasting friendships that become sources of strength and encouragement. I experienced this firsthand when I met my friend, Amanda Kontor, at a NYWICI event back in 2023. At the time, I had just graduated from Baruch College and was navigating the challenges of my next career steps. It was a period of time where I was full of questions and wanted to find out about what was ahead for my future.
From the moment I met Amanda, she became such a supportive friend for me. She listened, offered guidance, and helped me find clarity when I needed it the most. One day, I told her how much her kindness meant to me and that I wished I could find a way to thank her for being there. Her response stuck with me: “You can thank me by doing the same for someone else when you’re in my position – to continue inspiring, supporting, and uplifting each other.”
That is the true power of NYWICI. It’s not just about professional connections; it’s about building a community where women show up for one another – where every day feels like Galentine’s Day. I feel so lucky to be part of a network that turns mentorship into friendship and support into a lifelong cycle of encouragement.
A Celebration That Never Ends
While Galentine’s Day may be a once-a-year occasion, NYWICI proves that celebrating and supporting female friendships is an everyday commitment. By becoming a part of NYWICI, members create meaningful relationships, elevate one another, and find inspiration in the collective power of their community.
At NYWICI, every day is an opportunity to lift each other up, celebrate achievements, and strengthen the bonds that help women thrive. Whether you’re new to the city, seeking career guidance, or simply looking for a community of supportive women, NYWICI is here to ensure you always have a seat at the table – and a friend by your side
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