As the fall conference circuit quickly approaches, Women in Public Finance (WPF) is taking a bold step forward. With the launch of our Women's Speaker Bureau, WPF aims to amplify the voices of women professionals, foster visibility, and create a powerful resource for industry events.
We know that visibility is more than just being seen — it's about influence, credibility and opportunity. For women in public finance, gaining visibility can be a game-changer. Here's why:
- Panels, conferences, and industry events are platforms where ideas are exchanged, decisions are made, and networks are built. By having more women represented on these stages, we challenge stereotypes and break down barriers. When women share their expertise, they inspire others and pave the way for future leaders.
- Speaking engagements provide a chance to showcase expertise, share insights, and engage with peers. As women gain confidence through public speaking, they become more assertive in boardrooms, negotiations, and everyday interactions. Confidence breeds success.
- Visibility opens doors. When women speak at conferences, they connect with colleagues, potential clients, and mentors. These relationships lead to collaborations, job offers, and career advancements. The speaker bureau becomes a conduit for meaningful connections.
WPF membership hit 1,000 in March. There is not a dearth of women in the industry and WPF aims to provide opportunities. The Women's Speaker Bureau is a strategic move by WPF to address the gender gap in public finance. Here's how it works:
WPF actively scouts for talented women across various roles and sectors within our membership. Whether they're experts in municipal bonds, budgeting or specific sectors, these women have valuable insights to share.
The bureau will communicate and collaborate with industry conference organizers to provide women speakers for conferences, webinars, and workshops to ensure diverse representation. By supporting groups who have a focus on curating panels with both male and female speakers, WPF promotes balanced perspectives and enriches discussions.
Public speaking isn't innate; it's a skill that can be honed. WPF will provide training sessions, mentorship, and resources to help women refine their presentation skills. From crafting compelling narratives to handling Q&A sessions, these tools empower speakers.
Imagine a young analyst presenting at a national conference. Her insights resonate with the audience, and afterward, she's approached by industry veterans. They offer mentorship, introduce her to influential contacts, and recommend her for a high-profile transaction. That analyst's career trajectory just shifted upward.
The Women's Speaker Bureau turns such scenarios into reality. It's not just about speaking — it's about the ripple effect. When women speak, they inspire others, challenge norms, and elevate the entire industry.
Visibility isn't a luxury; it's a necessity. The Women's Speaker Bureau isn't just about filling seats; it's about amplifying voices. As women take the stage, they redefine what's possible. Their stories become part of the industry's narrative, shaping policies, investments, and innovation.
So, the next time you attend a public finance event, look out for those women at the podium. Their words aren't just speeches; they're catalysts for change. And as they advance, so does the entire field of public finance.
Jennifer Fredericks is president of Women in Public Finance. Jennifer leads municipal bond and public finance discussions on fixed-income data and analytics provider, SOLVE.
