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This guest blog is contributed by Women in Business and Entrepreneurship (WIBE), a student organization that fosters invaluable connections among students pursuing careers across a diverse range of industries.

Women in Business and Entrepreneurship (WIBE) is an inclusive and dynamic community that empowers individuals of all gender identities to thrive in business and innovation. Rooted at NYU Tandon in Downtown Brooklyn, WIBE has grown into a vibrant network that transcends disciplines and campuses — united by a shared mission to uplift, connect, and champion tomorrow’s leaders.

On April 2, WIBE’s “Leading Ladies Corporate Panel” exemplified this mission, drawing in a diverse NYU audience and spotlighting trailblazers in traditionally male-dominated industries. Through events like these, WIBE continues to create access to invaluable professional opportunities, foster meaningful mentorship, and cultivate a supportive space where ambition and authenticity go hand in hand.

The event, hosted at the Leslie eLab, drew a packed room of students from across NYU, with strong representation from Tandon’s Technology Management and Innovation (TMI) program. WIBE Co-President Chelsea Patrick (‘26) and Secretary Nikki Patel (‘27) served as moderators for the panel, guiding a thoughtful and engaging conversation that highlighted the diverse experiences of women thriving in traditionally male-dominated industries.

The panel featured four accomplished professionals who are making meaningful strides in industries ranging from finance and tech to media and entertainment.

• Trudi Patrick (Global Product Lead @ Google) shared her experience working at the intersection of innovation and leadership in the tech space.
• Makena Kiara (Associate @ J.P. Morgan Private Bank) brought insight into navigating the fast-paced world of finance as a young professional.
• Diana Fonte (Hedge Fund Enterprise Account Manager @ Bloomberg) spoke to the importance of adaptability and relationship-building in client-facing roles.
• Eden Mili (current Creative Lead at Baton & former Junior Manager of Digital Accounts @ Warner Music Group) offered a unique perspective on transitioning from corporate to startup life and emphasized the importance of staying aligned with one’s values when making career moves.

The discussion was filled with candid, empowering moments that left a lasting impression on the audience.

• Trudi Patrick encouraged attendees to lean into their voices, noting, “Don’t be afraid to speak up in meetings or group settings. There have been so many instances where someone said exactly what I was thinking, and I thought to myself, ‘Why didn’t I just speak up?’”
• Makena Kiara shared how she combats self-doubt, advising, “Don’t let impostor syndrome make decisions for you.”
• Diana Fonte reflected on the value of acting on your interests, sharing how she started a magazine at USC — drawing on her passion for journalism and the arts — even though they weren’t part of her official major. She encouraged students to take initiative when they see an opportunity, even if it falls outside their academic path.
• Eden Mili offered a thoughtful reflection on intentionality, saying, “If you think you might be on the wrong train, get off now — because it might be harder to get off when you’ve gone too far.” Each speaker’s vulnerability and wisdom resonated deeply, inspiring attendees to approach their futures clearly and confidently.

The “Leading Ladies Corporate Panel” was a resounding success — one that embodied WIBE’s mission to empower, connect, and uplift future leaders across all industries and identities. The event provided students with tangible career insights and ignited a deeper sense of confidence and belonging among attendees. By spotlighting accomplished women who are redefining success in their fields, the panel affirmed that there is space for everyone to lead with authenticity, purpose, and strength.

WIBE extends its heartfelt gratitude to our incredible panelists — Trudi Patrick, Makena Kiara, Diana Fonte, and Eden Mili — for their honesty, warmth, and wisdom. We are also deeply thankful to the Leslie eLab for generously hosting us in their space, helping us bring this powerful conversation to life. We also appreciate the support of Professor Driscoll, WIBE’s dedicated club advisor, and the Department of Technology Management and Innovation, whose continued encouragement helps fuel our mission and impact as a proud TMI organization.

As WIBE continues to grow, we remain committed to creating spaces like this — where bold ideas are shared, voices are heard, and tomorrow’s changemakers feel seen and supported. To stay connected, become a member of WIBE through NYU Engage, and follow us on Instagram @nyuwibe for updates on future events, opportunities, and more ways to get involved.