“I value FWSF for how it supports and promotes women entering or working in male-dominated fields. It provides a safe, non-competitive environment to share information on a wide variety of topics relevant to a woman's career in finance. It's a friendly organization where the members know each other. Scholarship recipients provide a great source of new and diverse members, and the Financial Woman of the Year event is one of the most inspiring around.”

Ashia Derksen

Chief Financial Officer
Shorenstein Investment Advisers

“With other organizations, it is challenging to find relevant professional events minus planning for a lengthy commute. FWSF provides relevant professional events, usually within San Francisco’s financial hub (“FiDi”).”

Andrea Matos

Risk and Compliance Manager

“I appreciate the opportunities that FWSF affords me to give back — through mentoring scholarship recipients and participating in the scholarship selection process. I'm inspired by the talented young women I meet. It’s also a valuable networking forum connecting women across different career stages. Although FWSF has traditionally focused on financial services, it extends beyond these segments — including corporations, venture capital, and private equity.”

Irene Melitas

Global Finance & Treasury Executive
Board Director

“I appreciate FWSF for the opportunity it provides for networking and professional development, connecting with like-minded individuals who share a passion for finance, and empowering women in the industry. As a former scholarship recipient and now a board member, I value the support FWSF has provided me in advancing my career in sustainable finance and economic development.”

Tabitha Florence Shikuku

CPA, MBA, MPA

“I've met women leaders at FWSF who genuinely care, share their experiences, and seek to mentor others.”

Han Lee

Grant Thornton LLP

“When I started banking almost 30 years ago, men dominated the leadership positions. Although I've seen some progress, there's still a gap in representation at the C-suite level. We need more women with a seat at the table, and FWSF helps advance this mission.”

Kim Crosslin

“I’m always eager to connect with other women, learn from their experiences, offer my support, and contribute in meaningful ways. Building these connections not only enriches my professional journey but also allows me to empower and uplift fellow women in business.”

Sunitha Anand

AddsVal CPSa & Advisory

“I was inspired to join FWSF because of its vibrant community of like-minded women who share similar interests, values, and goals. Being part of such a supportive network of strong women is empowering and enriching on both personal and professional levels.”

Sandra Wasicek

Zorro Wealth

Advice to other women in finance: “Stay engaged with other female leaders, never stop learning, and become a mentor/sponsor to a younger woman. I am surprised by how much we can also learn from the younger generations in the industry — especially around technology as it is changing rapidly.”

Kristina P. Keck, CPFA CBFA

Woodruff Sawyer

Advice to other women in finance: “Prioritize health, wellness, and relationships/family. Women in financial services are so dynamic, dedicated to their careers, and thrive in challenging environments. Also, it's good to mix things up and learn something new, whether it's a professional or a personal interest.”

Maria Castel