AWITA has evolved from an informal network into a dynamic and professional organisation focused on empowering women in the workplace. Rooted in care and collaboration, AWITA champions the development of skills and behaviours that support women’s success.

5 Things To Know About AWITA:

1) Programme

We have a robust programme of activities that include:

Mentoring Walk & Talks - These offer opportunities for active listening and peer-to-peer mentoring with professionals working across the sector.
Online Modules - Resources like Nancy Durrant’s Media Toolkit Series offer practical knowledge and upskilling.
Forecasts - Drawing inspiration from John Maynard Keynes’ concept of animal spirits (the emotional mindsets that drive markets), these 30-minute sessions capture the cultural temperature of locations ahead of major art events. Through real-time insights from gallerists, curators, and collectors on the ground, speakers cover the geopolitical context and challenges, opportunities, threats, history, and what’s exciting at the time.
Fireside Chats - Much of our learning comes from being inspired by and learning from others' experiences. This emotional approach to leadership can be quite powerful. In these intimate, salon-style events, leaders, patrons, and entrepreneurs share stories of personal growth and musings on future projects.

2) Membership Cost

We are committed to running a viable and sustainable organisation while ensuring our programmes meet the needs of our members. For nine years, we’ve kept the annual membership fee at £250, reflecting our dedication to accessibility. We offer a sponsored membership programme every two years to support inclusivity.

For organisations with teams of two or more, we offer team memberships. Typically organisations then include access to AWITA in annual performance reviews.

Find out more here.

3) Wellbeing

As women we talk about wellbeing and care and integrate it into our businesses. But sometimes it's about being able to professionalise that and see the bumps on the road before you get to them. Whether it’s a session on coping with burnout or how to write a press release, our events act as a reminder to prioritise your wellbeing and develop your professional toolkit.

4) Professional Development

Our approach to professional development extends beyond learning new skills or competencies. We’ve always looked outside the art world for inspiration and resources so that members have the building blocks to bring in other skill sets and points of views. In an ever-changing landscape, this adaptability is more valuable than ever.

5) Data

We estimate that about 75% of the art world is powered by women, yet their contributions often go unseen and undervalued. The challenge is there is very little data. To address this, we’ve launched a survey in partnership with Artnet to uncover the realities of women’s roles, salaries, benefits, and career advancement opportunities within the sector. This initiative aims to establish baseline data that compels people to sit up and take notice.

Save the date for a breakfast on 18th March for a panel on our findings.

At AWITA, we create spaces where members can come together to listen, support, mentor, and exchange skills. Trust is at the heart of our community, enabling conversations that couldn’t take place elsewhere.

5 Things To Know About AWITA