EMPOWERING
AMBITIOUS Wowen
TO THRIVE THROUGH
AUTHENTIC CONNECTIONS
Women Already Connected is more than a community—it’s a movement empowering women to grow, connect, and
thrive together.
OUR MISSION
Women Already Connected (WAC) is a nonprofit community dedicated to empowering and inspiring ambitious women through meaningful connections, valuable resources, and transformative experiences. Through networking events, educational seminars, and community outreach, we create opportunities for women to grow, lead, and support one another in their professional and personal journeys.
Our Vision
Our vision is to create a global network of women who uplift and empower each other through collaboration, support, and community. WAC strives to establish spaces—both locally and internationally—where women can connect, learn, and thrive together, fostering an inclusive and dynamic environment for success.
HOW IT ALL BEGAN
Women Already Connected started in 2019 as a small gathering of nine women who shared a vision for something greater. Our founder saw a need for a community where female business professionals and entrepreneurs could support, uplift, and cheer each other on.
What began as a simple idea quickly grew into a thriving ecosystem of successful, kind, and driven women—focused on achieving their goals, helping others rise, and doing it all with confidence and style. Today, WAC continues to cultivate meaningful connections and opportunities for women to grow, lead, and thrive together.
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT?
We’re not just a network—we’re a sisterhood. Other groups are the girls next door, but we’re the women you wish lived next door. At WAC, authenticity is the core of everything we do. Whether you’re climbing the corporate ladder, growing your business, or pivoting to a new path, we connect you with women who truly understand and support your goals. This isn’t just about networking—it’s about building real relationships with powerhouse women who uplift, inspire, and open doors for one another.
WHAT WE STAND FOR
At WAC, our values define our culture and guide everything we do
Authenticity
We prioritize real, meaningful relationships over surface-level networking.
Inclusivity
We celebrate diversity and welcome women from all industries and backgrounds.
Empowerment
We believe in lifting each other up and celebrating every win—big or small.
Collaboration
Success is a collective journey, and we grow stronger together.
THE FACES BEHIND WAC
At the heart of Women Already Connected is a dedicated team working tirelessly to ensure our mission comes to life.
Andrea Fox Downing
Founder/ CEO
Andrea Fox Downing embodies the quintessential spirit of a Texas-born dynamo, combining her tenacity with an impressive portfolio of achievements. Crowned Miss Texas US 2018 and placing in the Top 10 at the Miss United States pageant, Andrea's impact extends far beyond the stage. She has built a remarkable career as a National Sales Executive, navigating sectors such as technology, audio, and staffing, and establishing herself as a leader in her field.
In addition to her professional success, Andrea is an investor, using her keen business acumen to support innovative ventures and promote sustainable growth.
As a visionary entrepreneur, Andrea founded Women Already Connected (WAC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering women. WAC is celebrated for its sold-out events, meaningful connections, and its mission to provide women with access to invaluable opportunities and resources.
Passionate about elevating women in business, Andrea has become a prominent figure in the Dallas startup ecosystem. Her multifaceted accomplishments and dedication to empowerment stand as a testament to her mission: to inspire women to achieve greatness through ambition and purpose.
Lela Belayneh
COO/Director of Community Outreach
With a decade-long commitment to the field of Learning and Development, I have cultivated a rich and diverse professional journey that spans across prominent health organizations in both the Fortune 50 sector and the non-profit realm. My trajectory eventually led me to the dynamic landscape of the tech industry; where I eventually co-founded the nonprofit TechBesties - where friendship meets the tech space. Beyond the realm of Learning and Development, my expertise extends to Organizational and Leadership Development. This broader skill set equips me to address the multifaceted needs of both individuals and organizations, fostering growth, resilience, and sustainable success. I developed a robust foundation in fostering learning cultures that empower individuals to reach their full potential. Adept in the nuances of adult-based learning, my true passion lies in leveraging my skills for the betterment of the community.
I have consistently intertwined my professional and personal life with a deep-seated passion for serving the community, recognizing the profound impact of altruism on individual and collective well-being. In my current role as the Director of Community Outreach at Women Already Connected, I am thrilled to channel my passion into action. Women Already Connected represents an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the city of Dallas, where I am dedicated to creating and representing impactful opportunities for our ladies to contribute to the community.
Darien Maples
CTO
Darien Maples is making significant contributions both professionally and personally in supporting women in the tech industry. Her role as the Managing Director for Girls in Tech Inc., along with her leadership at Intel Corporation as Head of Technical Partner Activation and Confidential Computing Programs, demonstrates her dedication to advancing technology and cybersecurity.
Additionally, her advocacy for women in tech and involvement as a board member in Women Already Connected, focusing on connecting and partnering with individuals in the Dallas Metroplex, highlights her commitment to building strong networks and supporting the community.
She also prioritizes family, being a mother and dedicating time to her son. Darien will be speaking on her journey into cybersecurity and the passion for finding your community to make strong connections in your field.
Michelle Gamboa
East Texas Chapter President
Michelle Gamboa, born in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, immigrated to the United States at age 7 and proudly became a U.S. citizen. A graduate of Spring Hill ISD (2012) and Texas A&M University (2016), she earned a Bachelor’s in Political Science with a minor in Psychology.
Currently, Michelle serves as Operations Director for her family’s roofing company. Beyond her business accomplishments, she broke barriers as the first Hispanic, youngest, and first female representative of her district since the 1960s on the Longview City Council, where she was also elected Mayor Pro Tem by her peers.
Michelle’s dedication to her community is evident through her extensive board service, including roles with Longview Community Ministries, the Longview Chamber of Commerce, and as a council liaison for various commissions. She is a proud member of the Junior League of Longview, where she has held multiple leadership positions, and serves with the Longview Greggton Rotary and Longview Arboretum.
Her passion for advocacy is reflected in her work with CASA, representing foster children and co-founding the Legislative Advocacy Team for East Texas CASA. Michelle’s commitment to leadership, service, and community growth continues to make a lasting impact in East Texas and beyond.
BE PART OF Something BIGGER
Whether you’re growing your business, advancing your career, or looking to connect with women who truly understand your journey, Women Already Connected is the place to thrive.