New York, NY, September 22, 2014 – Women in Toys (WIT), the preeminent networking organization for women in the toy, licensing and entertainment industry, announces the launch of their new Empowerment Program, with three exciting initiatives that provide members with numerous opportunities for professional support, career development, and a roadmap to success.

The three initiatives include WIT’s Winning Moves Empowerment Workshop in Dallas on October 6, a new One-on-One Mentoring Program, and Learn-the-Ropes Webinars.

The Winning Moves Empowerment Workshop gives entrepreneurs, inventors and manufacturers the opportunity to pitch products to retail giant Walmart, and top toy/game companies: Hasbro, Spin Master and Winning Moves Games. The event takes place on October 6 at Dallas Market Center at 1:00 pm, the day before TIA’s Fall Toy Preview begins, and also includes panel discussions, one-on-one speed mentoring, and networking opportunities, including a Cocktail Party open to women, men, members and non-members.

Toy industry veteran and play expert Nancy Zwiers has been tapped to develop and chair the One-on-One Mentoring Program and Learn-the-Ropes Webinars, along with WIT board member and Chair of Empowerment Initiatives, Deb de Sherbinin.

One-on-One Mentoring pairs industry expert mentors with up-and-coming WIT members as well as those looking to change their career path. Mentors work with mentees to provide support, industry knowledge, resources and connections that will help advance their careers and grow their businesses. Volunteer mentors include manufacturers, retailers, marketing/PR agencies and licensors. Members interested in becoming a mentor or mentee can sign up at www.WomenInToys.com or contact Nancy Zwiers at Nancy@Funosophy.com

Learn-the-Ropes Webinars are hosted by industry experts and will provide information, insights, education, and support on a wide variety of topics – all designed to help members with their career goals and professional development. Webinars will begin in December on Wednesdays from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm.