Sponsorship as Partnership: A Conversation with Karen Aflalo

What does it take to turn a sponsorship into a true partnership? For Karen Aflalo, it’s all about listening, building trust, and aligning values. As Sponsorship Lead at Women Leaders in Pharma (WLP), she has helped companies see the power of investing in women. We sat down with Karen to learn how she approaches sponsorship – and why it matters more than ever.

When people think of sponsorship, they often think “money.” How do you see it?Sponsorship isn’t just about asking for funds. To me, it’s about partnership. It’s listening more than talking, understanding what an organization values, and creating opportunities that align with their goals.

Can you share an example?

McKesson is a great example. They began as an annual sponsor. But over time, as we built a relationship and they experienced the value of WLP firsthand, they grew into a platinum sponsor and presenting partner of our Shine Bright Gala. That didn’t happen overnight. It happened because they saw the impact of supporting women in pharma and wanted to be part of it.

What value do sponsors get from working with WLP?

It depends on their goals. Annual sponsorships provide memberships, mentorship, coaching, and event access for the women in their organizations. It’s a way of saying: we value you, and we’re investing in your growth.

Others sponsor our gala, which is more about visibility and networking. It’s a high-profile event with extensive coverage across LinkedIn, Instagram, and our newsletter. For companies looking to raise their profile, it’s a perfect fit.

Why should companies see sponsorship as more than just a line item?

Because it’s not an ask; it’s an invitation. It’s a chance to align your brand with a movement that uplifts women across the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical technology industries. When you support WLP, you’re helping to shape an industry that’s stronger, more inclusive, and more representative of the world it serves.

And what about women themselves? Why should they care about WLP’s sponsors?Because sponsorship makes everything possible – from mentorship to professional development to creating spaces where women can lead. Every dollar is reinvested directly into these programs, as WLP is run entirely by volunteers. When organizations invest in WLP, they’re investing in women’s futures – and creating opportunities for our entire community.

Sponsorship is more than a transaction. At WLP, it’s a partnership – one that opens doors, strengthens connections, and amplifies the voices of women leaders across pharma, biotechnology and medical technology.

Explore membership at Women Leaders in Pharma and see how together, we can build partnerships that truly make an impact.