Join AWWEE for an interactive webinar workshop focused on the power of networking and building meaningful professional relationships.
Through guided discussion, personal reflection, and structured peer engagement, participants will explore how networking can support career growth, visibility, mentorship, collaboration, and community.
This session will challenge common misconceptions about networking and provide practical tools to help participants approach relationship building with greater confidence and authenticity. Attendees will participate in breakout discussions, map their professional networks, and practice conversation starters that can be applied in everyday professional settings.
Whether you are early in your career, navigating a transition, or looking to strengthen your professional community, this webinar will offer a supportive space to connect, reflect, and grow alongside fellow professionals in the water, energy, and environmental fields.
About Our Speakers
Mayela Manasjan is an environmental scientist and nonprofit leader who leads with three G’s: Gratitude, Gentleness, and Generosity.
With over 20 years of experience in local government and advocacy, Mayela has dedicated her career to protecting the environment for current and future generations. She serves as Executive Director of the Association of Women in Water, Energy and the Environment (AWWEE), where she supports and uplifts women leaders across sectors through mentorship, professional growth, and connection, while celebrating the contributions of all women driving meaningful change.
Mayela has helped shape ambitious Climate Action Plans in Southern California and served on numerous boards focused on environmental justice, equity, and community empowerment. A longtime leader with The Climate Reality Project, founded by former Vice President Al Gore, she has spoken alongside him internationally and continues to mentor emerging leaders shaping a sustainable future.
In late 2024, she was honored to receive blessings from His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, who encouraged her to continue her environmental leadership and extended blessings to all committed to this important work.
A lifelong learner, Mayela holds a B.S. in Environmental Systems (Ecology, Behavior, and Evolution) from UC San Diego and an M.S. in Executive Leadership from the University of San Diego.
Jennifer Persike is an innovative strategist and a visionary leader with more than 35 years experience leading and working with California water and energy organizations, statewide associations, non-profits and corporations in addition to local, state and federal entities.
In 2017, Jennifer established her own firm, Jennifer Persike & Company. She and her team help organizations and individuals to lead better and do better. JP & Co. specializes in consultation for critical business needs, including organizational optimization, leadership development and training, and external affairs.
Ms. Persike is the past Executive Director of Leadership California (LC), a statewide non-profit organization dedicated to increasing the representation and influence of diverse women leaders in all sectors across California.
As former Deputy Executive Director for the Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA), Ms. Persike built a reputation for understanding the issues, people, and challenges in the water arena. She drove numerous high-profile, successful external and internal initiatives working with industry leaders at all levels. Efforts included leading a reorganization, establishing the regional structure and outreach program, creation and management of the state’s Save Our Water public outreach program, creating award-winning California’s Water Series on Public Television with Huell Howser and several water bond and other advocacy campaigns.
Ms. Persike is committed to giving back to the community, serving on numerous boards. These include, American Red Cross-Gold Country (Chair), ACWA Foundation (Vice Chair), Water Education Foundation, Association for Women in Water, Energy and the Environment, and Urban Water Institute.
Ms. Persike holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism and political science from Chico State University and has completed certificates in Facilitation, Mediation and Arbitration (UC Davis), Stakeholder Centered Coaching (Marshall Goldsmith) and a HR / Diversity & Inclusion (Cornell University). She is a best-selling author of The Joy of Work, July 2023.
Allison Ward is passionate about building meaningful connections and creating opportunities that support women in the water, energy, and environmental industries. Through her work with the Association of Women in Water, Energy & Environment (AWWEE), she helps lead event planning, member engagement, communications, and outreach initiatives that foster professional growth and community impact.
Her experience includes coordinating educational webinars, networking events, conferences, tours, and regional programming across California. She enjoys bringing people together through thoughtful experiences that encourage collaboration, mentorship, and leadership development. From managing event logistics and marketing campaigns to supporting volunteers and member communications, Allison thrives in work that combines organization, creativity, and relationship building.
She is especially inspired by creating inclusive spaces where professionals can connect, learn from one another, and feel supported throughout their careers. Allison values community driven leadership, continuous learning, and helping mission focused organizations grow their impact.
Registration
Registration is FREE for active AWWEE members and $20 for non-members.