This initiative, spearheaded by NYF partner, Daniela Varela, who serves as Lead Creative and Programme Designer, reflects New York Festivals' commitment to celebrating trailblazing talent and fostering the next generation of women leaders in advertising, says NYF. 

Designed for high-potential women in advertising with five to eight years of agency experience, Lady Liberty is a one-day immersive leadership programme taking place in New York City on Tuesday, 4 March — launching in celebration of International Women's Day. Participants will gain valuable insights, mentorship and meaningful connections through an exclusive small-group experience, adds NYF. 

"We're thrilled to bring together an incredible cohort of emerging female leaders who will not only gain industry insights but also forge lasting connections that will support their growth throughout their careers," says Varela. "The Lady Liberty Leadership Programme is about more than just professional development, it's about creating a strong, supportive community where women uplift one another."

"New York Festivals is proud to provide a platform that connects and empowers the next generation of women leaders," says Ellen Smyth, CEO of New York Festivals. "Lady Liberty is designed to inspire and equip women with the insights and mentorship needed to navigate and lead within the industry."

Lady Liberty Leadership Programme Speakers and Topics

According to the NYF, the speakers and topics include: 

  • Tina Cervera, Executive Creative Leadership — 'Earn Your Story'
  • Maddy Krammer, Creative Director, Dentsu — 'Finding Your Voice: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome through Passion Projects'
  • Damasia Merbilhaa, Vice President, Latin America, TBWA \ Worldwide — 'Fire Always Needs 02: How to Keep the Creative Spark Alive without Burning Out'
  • Marina Cuesta, Group Creative Director, Regional Co-Leader, Círculo Creativo US — 'The Team for Your Solo: The Importance of Mentorship'
  • Daniela Varela, Group Creative Director Group Creative Director, The Weber Shandwick Collective — 'Wearing out Your Shoes: Why Growth Hurts and How to be Comfortable with It', and 
  • Amy Fortunato, VP, Group Creative Director, Klick — 'Empowered Women Empower Women'.

Beyond the day-long event, participants can stay connected through the Lady Liberty professional network, engaging in ongoing mentorship, industry events and social networking opportunities, adds NYF. 

NYF, in partnership with Jotto — a platform dedicated to amplifying every voice — says that it will provide instant access via QR code, enabling seamless engagement and interaction with the NYF Lady Liberty programme and attendees.

New York Festivals invites agencies, brands and industry leaders to nominate exceptional female professionals for this programme. Nominations are now open for women with five to eight years of experience who have demonstrated leadership potential, creative impact and a commitment to driving change in advertising.

NYF concludes that the official deadline to enter the 2025 New York Festivals Advertising Awards is Friday, 25 April. The official deadline to enter the 2025 AME Awards competition is Sunday, 15 June. NYF Health Awards opens for entries in July.

For more information, visit www.newyorkfestivals.com or contact LadyLiberty@newyorkfestivals.com. You can also follow the NYF on Facebook, X, or on Instagram.

*Image courtesy of contributor