Women In Footwear Design

Welcome

Portland is the global hub of the footwear industry, where many of the country’s top companies are headquartered. The city is renowned not only for its innovative brands and top talent, but for its ability to come together around industry-wide issues to create shared solutions.

Women in Footwear Design (WiFD) is another example of partnership in this one-of-a-kind ecosystem.

Mission + Vision

Women in Footwear Design (WiFD) exists to empower, connect, and uplift women across the footwear industry. Through thoughtfully curated events, resources, and community-driven programming, we create space for learning, collaboration, and visibility. Our goal is to help shape a more inclusive and inspiring future for women in design.

Women in Footwear Design (WiFD) is a community-led initiative housed within Prosper Portland’s Athletic & Outdoor industry programming. Founded by a group of Portland-based female footwear designers, WiFD was created to foster connection, support, and opportunity for women across the footwear industry.

CORE VALUES

Connection
We believe in the power of bringing people together. Whether it’s through casual conversations or intentional programming, WiFD exists to help women in footwear design build meaningful relationships across the industry.
Support
We’re here to uplift one another. WiFD is a space for peer-to-peer encouragement, knowledge sharing, and celebrating each other’s big +small wins.
Inclusion
Our community is open, welcoming, and actively working to amplify voices that have historically been underrepresented in the footwear space. We champion diversity in experience, background, and perspective.
Curiosity
We’re always learning. From trend forecasting to career development, WiFD encourages ongoing discovery and staying open to new perspectives, skills, and stories.

WiFD Steering Committee

Angela Martin
Kaman Brown
Ashley Comeaux
Kristina Gerig
Josie Johnson
Anna Jacobi

Past Events

October 2025 @ Ecotrust

April 2025 @ Wildcraft

October 2024 @ Industry

August 2024 @ Portland Art Museum / Sneaker Week