We recently hosted our Los Angeles anniversary dinner in the heart of the city where the original seed for The WIE Suite was planted.

Back then, our founder Dee Poku was navigating the complexities of corporate life and wondering why women didn’t have the same deal flow, tactical exchange and support networks she saw among her male peers. That question became the spark that grew into The WIE Suite.
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At this special gathering, hosted at the stunning Macallan Villa, guests were treated to an immersive whiskey tasting led by Raquel Raies of The Macallan. As they learned about the history and craftsmanship behind the world’s oldest whiskey brand, the conversation turned to legacy - what it means to build something lasting and to use one’s influence with purpose.

Raquel noted what an honor it was to have a “full house of women” tasting whiskey, a symbol of how spaces once reserved for men are being redefined by women leading in their own way.

During the group discussion portion, Dee Poku reflected on how meaningful it was to return to Los Angeles to mark The WIE Suite’s fifth anniversary — to look back on her career with fresh perspective and to envision what the next five years of impact could hold. Guests shared their own reflections on legacy, leadership, and the value of strong networks.

Attendees included actress and philanthropist Sheryl Lee Ralph; entrepreneur Bridgid Coulter; NBC Universal’s Liz Jenkins; Refinery 29’s Brooke Devaard; investor Jill Foster; westbourne founder, Camilla Marcus; UTA’s Zoe Fairbourn; Liz Cebron CMO of beauty brand Ilia and author Anna Malaika Tubbs.