As we approach the 10th anniversary of the Women in Technology: Hollywood Foundation (WiTH) at the SoCal Women’s Leadership Summit on Nov. 8, we find ourselves reflecting on the extraordinary journey that has brought us to this milestone.
For a decade, the WiTH Foundation has remained committed to building a better future for women in technology, and by extension, the entire industry.
This journey, filled with uplifting voices, fostering leadership, and creating opportunities, has been nothing short of inspiring. But even as we celebrate, we know that there is still so much more to be done.
The opportunity to make a difference is still open. We need you—our partners, friends, and future allies — to join us on this path forward. Whether by sponsoring the upcoming SoCal Women’s Leadership Summit, becoming a mentor, or simply spreading the word, your involvement will help create tangible change.
Sponsorship is a direct way to help women and girls at all stages of their journey—from young girls just beginning to explore technology, to women already in the industry, to those seeking training, job placement, or financial stability for their families.
We are not only supporting women who are making their mark in technology but also building the pipeline to ensure more women can join them. Some of the women who have benefited from these efforts will be on stage this year sharing their stories of resilience, ambition, and success. Your contribution will allow us to continue offering charitable donations, scholarships, mentorship, training, job placement support, and networking opportunities that transform lives and futures.
To all our past and present sponsors: thank you for believing in us. You have been the driving force behind our success, helping us reach thousands of women across the industry. Your contributions have not only made these events possible but have fueled programs that create life-changing impact, long after the summit doors have closed.
This year, as we celebrate our 10th anniversary, we find ourselves standing at the intersection of reflection and aspiration. Over the years, we’ve had the honor of learning from trailblazing women and advocates who embody resilience, courage, and determination.
From keynotes delivered by the likes of Kimberly Kenny of Mount St. Mary’s University on the evolving role of women in the workplace, to inspirational panels on leadership from women like Jana Vondran of Ingram Micro and Virginia Lyons of Sony Pictures Entertainment—our summit has been a day of wisdom and hope for all who seek to empower women.
Our annual gathering has never been just an event — it’s a day of community, impact, and change. A path where countless women have found their voice, realized their potential, and connected with mentors who helped them open doors they didn’t even know were within reach. Many of our participants, like Patricia Cruz of DIY Girls and Lauren Kush of Codetalk, have shared their journeys from navigating early struggles in their careers to becoming pillars of their organizations, proving that with the right support, anything is possible.
Through programs like the Women’s Empowerment Institute, Boundless Brilliance, and STEM Advantage, we’ve been privileged to witness first-hand the impact of mentorship, guidance, and opportunity.
It’s these stories that remind us of the “why” behind everything we do—to ensure that every woman, no matter her background, has the tools and support she needs to thrive in a tech world that can sometimes feel isolating.
It hasn’t been easy. The road to equality and inclusivity is long, and each step forward has been earned through dedication, commitment, and collective effort. But it’s been worth it. This journey would not have been possible without the unwavering dedication of our community, sponsors, and volunteers. I am personally filled with gratitude for the incredible people who have stood beside us — from the very first summit to today.
Whether it’s our partners, sponsors, mentors, or the remarkable women who’ve shared their stories on stage — together, we have created something far greater than ourselves.
As we celebrate this milestone, I invite you to think about the future. What does the next 10 years look like for the WiTH Foundation? For the women whose lives we are yet to touch? How do we continue to break down barriers, create new pathways, and ensure that the leaders of tomorrow reflect the diversity, talent, and potential of the world around us? The answer lies with all of us.
Let this 10th anniversary be not just a celebration of how far we’ve come, but a rallying call to action for what we can still achieve together. We are shaping the future of women in technology, and with your help, the next 10 years will be even more transformative.
I can’t wait to see you on Nov. 8. Let’s celebrate our journey, our community, and our shared commitment to a more inclusive, equitable, and inspiring future for women in tech.
With deep gratitude and excitement for the future,
Christina Aguilera
President, Women in Technology: Hollywood Foundation