From Coffee to Collective Impact: The Origin of the Women in Finance Forum

Business Journals

12-06-2025

On Wednesday, May 28, more than 200 women+ from around Portland working in the financial services industry came together for an evening of inspiration and connection at the second annual Women in Finance Forum. The event was hosted by the local chapters of five professional women's organizations: ● CFA Society ● Portland Women in Investment Management ● Women in ETFs ● Women in Insurance & Financial Services ● WE Inspire. Promote. Network. A Moment of Inspiration In a city rich with professional women's organizations, a simple coffee meeting in early 2023 sparked a question that would launch something much greater: "What would happen if we teamed up?" That's the question Yolanda Reyes White and Lisa Massena asked one another over coffee in the sunshine, as they chatted about work, family, and their involvement with two standout groups in Portland's financial landscape — We Inspire. Promote. Network. (WIPN) and CFA Society Portland (CFASP). 'It started with a Happy New Year email,' Lisa recalled. 'That led to a spontaneous catch-up between two people who care deeply about the role women play in shaping the financial industry.' Their conversation quickly led to a shared realization: there are so many powerful organizations that support women in finance, but few opportunities for members of the individual networks to connect. With the support of their respective boards, the idea took off. By the fall of 2023, the concept of a collaborative event had taken shape. More leaders were invited to the table, ideas began to flow, and the Women in Finance Forum was born. A Shared Vision What emerged wasn't just an event — it became a platform rooted in three core goals: ● Cultivate Community and Foster Meaningful Connections Introduce women in the Portland financial sector to the participating organizations to expand professional networks, spark collaborative opportunities, and create a supportive environment. ● Change the Metrics Encourage and support more women to take on roles of responsibility within the financial services industry, shifting the landscape for the next generation. ● Collaborate to Provide Greater Value Combine resources, ideas, and energy to offer more than any one organization could alone. 'This collaboration is about more than networking,' Yolanda shared. 'It's about showing what's possible when women unite around a shared mission. We're acknowledging, celebrating, and amplifying the leadership already happening — and making room for more.' In just one year, the event has grown to include five partner organizations, dozens of volunteers, and a sold-out audience at its 2024 and 2025 forums. The heart of it, however, still comes back to the question asked over coffee — and the collective action that followed. A Collective Thanks The 2025 Women in Finance Forum would not have been possible without the generosity and commitment of its sponsors, the strength of the five collaborating organizations, and the dedication of the volunteers who brought this vision to life. To all attendees — thank you for showing up with curiosity, energy, and purpose. Your presence is what transforms ideas into momentum. This forum is a reflection of what happens when we lead together, build intentionally, and share the stage.