My Journey Through the Female Futures Fund Programme

Karla Whelan, Senior Account Manager

From the moment I opened the email confirming my selection for the 2024 Female Futures Fund Programme, I felt like my heart skipped a beat. To say I was thrilled would be an understatement—I was absolutely elated! The thought of the incredible journey ahead, the inspiring women I’d meet, and the transformative opportunities this programme promised left me buzzing with anticipation.

In what felt like no time at all, I was walking into our first session, surrounded by 25 extraordinary women from across the advertising, media, and communications industries. From the very beginning, it was clear this wasn’t just another leadership program—it was an experience meticulously crafted to empower and inspire women at every level of their careers.

Each session focused on themes central to Women in Leadership, offering insights that felt as practical as they were profound. We explored everything from discovering our unique leadership styles to tackling challenges that disproportionately affect women in our field. What made it truly impactful was how tailored every session was to our real-world experiences. This wasn’t abstract theory—it was actionable advice, strategies, and wisdom I could implement immediately.

The peer mentorship throughout the programme was one of its most rewarding aspects. We didn’t just learn from the experts; we learned so much from each other. Every conversation with these talented, driven women was an opportunity to gain fresh perspectives and honest advice. There’s something so powerful about connecting with people who truly understand your journey because they’re on their own. It wasn’t just about building a network—it felt like building a safety net of encouragement, ideas, and inspiration.

What I appreciated most was the programme’s emphasis on vulnerability. Leadership can often feel like relentless pressure to have all the answers. Yet, this programme showed us that it’s okay not to know everything, ask for help, and navigate uncertainty gracefully. Embracing vulnerability became a strength, not a weakness, and that lesson will stay with me forever.

Hearing from women like Charley Stoney, CEO of IAPI, and our very own Vaunnie McDermott was nothing short of transformative. Their stories along with our other speakers were woven with authenticity and wisdom, resonated deeply—not just with me, but with every woman in the programme. They reminded us of the importance of balance, ambition, and staying true to ourselves as we navigate our personal and professional journeys.

If you’re considering applying for the Female Futures Fund Programme, let me offer this simple advice: do it. It’s a decision you won’t regret. And a heartfelt thank you to Connelly Partners for nominating me for this incredible opportunity. It’s an experience that has left a mark on me, one I’ll carry with me throughout my career and beyond.