Why I Avoided Networking as a Founder—and What Changed

 Networking has never come naturally to me.
In fact, it’s something I haven’t always made space for, despite knowing how important it is in every field, especially as an entrepreneur.

If I’m being honest, I didn’t prioritise it in the early days of Monica. B. When I dig into why, I realise it’s personal. A decade ago, when I started out as a blogger, I attended my fair share of events—and left most of them feeling unseen, uninspired, or just emotionally drained.

I’m not naturally social. I don’t enjoy small talk. And my social battery runs out faster than I’d like to admit. That early experience made me retreat from networking altogether. But over the years, something shifted.

With growth comes self-awareness, and I’ve done a lot of both. I’ve come to understand that networking doesn’t have to be performative. It doesn’t have to drain you. It can be intentional, reciprocal, and grounded in authenticity.

So this week, I did something I haven’t done in years:
I walked into a networking event.
A room full of powerhouse women.

And this time, it felt different.

It wasn’t about surface-level connections. It was about sharing space with people who get it. People who are building, evolving, and navigating the same pressures, while still choosing to show up. I know what I bring to the table now, not just as a founder, but as a whole woman. With perspective, energy, and purpose.

The road to the top is no easy one. It stretches us emotionally, financially, and creatively. And the truth is, no one gets there alone. We need peers to lean on. Mentors to learn from. And rooms that remind us to keep growing, even when it’s uncomfortable.

I want the kind of success that’s shared. I want to look around one day and see women I’ve grown with—on a yacht, maybe—swapping stories about the bridges we built, the ones we crossed together, and how we never left each other behind.

So here’s to showing up.
To building with intention.
To knowing when you’re ready—and stepping in with your whole self.
Not just to network, but to truly connect.

Here are some photos from the networking event - WEMVision

Wearing: Rectangle Earring with Stones, Chunky Belt Snake Chain Necklace, Celeste Orbit Cuff and Swirly Rings

The event was held at The Mayfair Hotel in London. 

Love,

Banke x