BMW of Darien Hosts Inspiring Evening to Support and Encourage Young Women
On June 11, Girls With Impact was honored to partner with BMW of Darien for an evening dedicated to empowering the next generation of women leaders. Held at BMW of Darien's showroom, the event brought together supporters, community leaders, and advocates to learn more about Girls With Impact's mission and the critical need to prepare young women with the skills, confidence, and networks to succeed in college, careers, and life.
The evening began with a warm welcome from Paula Callari, President of BMW of Darien, who shared why the organization's mission connected with her.
"I was looking to give back to an organization that really resonated with me. After exploring many organizations in the area, Mia [Schipani, GWI regional board member] introduced me to Girls With Impact and it was a perfect fit," Callari told attendees.
Her remarks highlighted the shared commitment between BMW of Darien and Girls With Impact to investing in the future of young women and creating opportunities for them to thrive.
Girls With Impact Founder and CEO Jennifer Openshaw then shared why the work of GWI is so important. Based on research conducted by Claire Shipman, (journalist and author, the Confidence Code) we know that "Men get promoted on promise. Women get promoted on performance."
“At the current pace, it will take 50 years for women to reach parity in business according to McKinsey, and we believe that's too long," said Openshaw.
She also spoke about the confidence gap many young women experience during adolescence.
"Young women stop raising their hands at 14, and that’s why I started GWI. We need to attack this problem early, and help young women build the skills and confidence to succeed from day one."
Through its live, instructor-led programs and mentorship opportunities, GWI equips young women ages 14 to 24 with practical business, leadership, and career readiness skills designed to help them navigate an increasingly competitive and rapidly changing world.
One of the evening's most powerful moments came from GWI graduate Arianna Anderson, a Princeton University student, who shared how the program transformed her confidence and expanded her vision for her future.
She shared about how learning business acumen and taking an idea from the beginning stages all the way through to execution built her confidence and gave her something tangible to leverage in her interviews.
"My biggest takeaway from the GWI program was learning how to sell yourself and know your why," Anderson said. "Being confident in who you are, no matter what company you're talking to or who you're working with, and understanding what you bring to the table is incredibly important."
Arianna also noted that GWI has opened doors for her, including participating in events like this that allowed her to sharpen her public speaking skills.
Although her interests were originally focused on STEM, Anderson explained that participating in the GWI Innovation Academy broadened her perspective.
"I had no experience related to business or finance, but participating in the Mini-MBA program really changed the way I view my career and my education."
Guests enjoyed food and refreshments while connecting with fellow supporters, participating in Q&A, shopping local vendors Wonnaful and Ilyse's Pieces, and winning raffle. Attendees also learned more about how they can help advance Girls With Impact's mission of creating greater opportunities for young women across the country.
Girls With Impact extends its sincere gratitude to BMW of Darien, Paula Callari, regional board member Mia Schipani, our speakers, vendors, and all who attended and supported this special event.
Together, we are helping ensure that young women don't just find a seat at the table; they arrive prepared to lead.
Learn more about GWI’s programs at www.girlswithimpact.org/our-programs