LadyDrinks is a leadership development platform for executive women, based in New York City. It is led by long time television presenter Joya Dass and began with an intention to support South Asian professional women. However, in the last few years, the initiative has expanded to include executive women around the globe, with annual events in Paris, London, Toronto, Brussels, and the UK.
As an immigrant in this country, my introduction to Joya came by the means of watching her host a weekly Indian show on television and when the opportunity came to meet her in 2016 at the Lady Drinks anniversary party, I jumped on it. It was quite the fan girl and Joya was exactly as I imagined her to be – smart, kind, warm, personable, and approachable. Being in that room as a first timer, I could see the collective energy of strong, like-minded, progressive women who were genuinely interested in lifting each other up. The event was expertly organized with the sole intention of facilitating meaningful connections that are conducive to and go beyond just business.
Fast forward to today, I have made friendships and business connections that couldn’t of dreamt of had I not attended that one event. I have access to an exclusive network of lawyers, event organizers, executives, creatives, and even a professional comedian! I am a part of a weekly and monthly accountability group and a gratitude group which keeps me moving forward knowing that I have the support I need in my business.
Not only have I been recommended multiple times in the network and been able to accomplish major projects, I have been a part of the larger conversation of the impact of women in the world today and how we can make a difference. Joya sees the best in people and puts her money where her mouth is. I was honored to work with her on her book cover and I am happy to call her my friend.
Becoming a member of LadyDrinks has been a game changer for me. From the very first event I attended I met incredible women that have helped me expand and strengthen my business. I have gained clients for my catering and personal chef business. And even met a member that has become my business mentor.
LadyDrinks has helped my business gain visibility, and Joya personally has gone to great lengths to help connect me with key people to help develop my brand. She has inspired me to take new chances and given me the support to take on new projects and events.
On a more personal note, one of her amazing events led me to reconnect with the Valerie Fund, an organization I did my cancer treatment through when I was young. This priceless connection has put me on the path to have medical mysteries I was dealing with finally get resolved.
I started with LadyDrinks thinking it would be an average networking group, and it turned out to be so much more than that. It is a group of strong, successful, phenomenal women that are incredibly encouraging and supportive. I am thankful to have joined.