EMG Events

Where Relationships, People, and Ideas Move Forward.

Networking On Purpose™ (NWOP)

Networking on Purpose (NWOP) is a nationally recognized networking platform and one of EMG’s original signature events. It all started in January 2020 in Detroit, MI with one mission: to provide clients a safe place where they can show up as themselves (and not just their Job Title) so that they can network On Purpose (intentional and authentic connections) and For A Purpose (honoring and giving back to a local non-profit organization). 

The pandemic shifted NWOP to become a virtual platform, which allowed EMG to have a reach beyond the USA. Globally, NWOP has had an impact in the UK, Australia, Canada, and Mexico. Networking on Purpose celebrated 5 years (and counting) with a national tour to ensure that connections lead to collective impact in Los Angeles, Atlanta, Washington, DC, and Detroit — equipping the community with tools to network authentically while spotlighting and supporting local nonprofits. NWOP has raised awareness for more than 55 nonprofits, with thousands of dollars in donations, while helping thousands build meaningful, aligned relationships – ON PURPOSE. FOR A PURPOSE.™

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More About NWOP

 

Networking on Purpose is more than an event — it’s a platform, a philosophy, and a movement. It was designed to close the networking gap for professionals, leaders, and entrepreneurs by creating intentional spaces rooted in authenticity, access, and alignment.

Unlike traditional networking where the focus is often on collecting contacts, Networking on Purpose is about building community, exchanging value, and giving more than you get.

 

We don’t just tell you to “put yourself out there” — we show you how. Networking on Purpose provides the structure, prompts, and support to make authentic relationship-building feel natural, not forced.

Through guided frameworks like “Give One, Get One” and the 5T Networking Model (click here to download the EMG guide), you’ll learn to:

  • Introduce yourself with purpose
  • Communicate your goals clearly
  • Identify what you genuinely have to offer others
  • Build trust through mutual exchange

Whether you’re shy, seasoned, or somewhere in between, every experience is designed to lower the pressure and raise the intention — so your network expands with meaning, not just numbers.

 

Networking on Purpose is for purpose-driven professionals, entrepreneurs, leaders, and change-makers who believe that you can turn relationships into results.

Whether you are:

  • Building your business
  • Advancing your career or organization
  • Pivoting to something new
  • Simply ready to be more intentional with your network

This space is for you!

If you’ve ever felt like you didn’t have “the right connections,” or wished networking felt more human and less performative — this is your community.

 

Networking on Purpose is grounded in the belief that relationships should move resources. That’s why we intentionally partner with nonprofits and community organizations to highlight their work, amplify their impact, and redirect funding their way. Whether through curated experiences, philanthropic tie-ins, or ongoing visibility, we bridge networking with service — because giving is built into how we grow.

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NWOP Spotlight Organizations

More Events By EMG

WWL Conference

Co-Hosted by EMG & NAAAHR State of Michigan Chapter

When Women Lead Conference (WWL) was originally launched by the National Association for African Americans in Human Resources (NAAAHR) – State of Michigan Chapter as a leadership conference for Black women in HR and those aspiring to HR leadership. The event quickly became a beloved space for connection, inspiration, and professional growth within the HR community.

Where Partnership Creates Impact

When The Erika Monaé Group (EMG) joined as co-host, the conference evolved into a premier cross-industry experience that welcomed Black women across all professions, levels, and entrepreneurial paths. EMG expanded the audience, enhanced the programming, and introduced new elements—most notably the signature “Hey Girl, Hey” Chats—which brought deeper authenticity, transparency, and real-world leadership insight to the stage.

Today the When Women Lead Conference stands as a testament to what’s possible when partnership, purpose, and community come together—honoring its origins while celebrating its evolution into a transformational experience for Black women across industries.

Under this expanded vision, When Women Lead reached new heights, selling out in both 2024 and 2025 and achieving the highest attendance in its history.

98% attendee satisfaction with programming, speakers, and giveaways!

93% felt equipped to take meaningful action after the conference!

96% felt safe to show up authentically and connect with others!

87% built meaningful community through mentorship, sponsorship, or accountability connections!

The Wine Down

Experience Collaboration Featuring Erika Monaé & Clift Roach II

The Wine Down is a monthly connection experience designed to slow the pace, deepen the dialogue, and build on the relationships sparked at Detroit’s most impactful networking events. The experience reflects the application of intentional relationship-building principles through the contribution of Erika Monaé, Founder & CEO of The Erika Monaé Group, alongside Clift Roach II, Founder of Networking at Night Detroit.

Where Intentionality Meets Influence

Born out of Clift Roach II’s vision to extend the impact of his fourth-Friday Networking at Night Detroit events, The Wine Down incorporated elements of Networking on Purpose™ (NWOP) through Erika Monaé’s expertise in experience design and relational strategy. Her applied philosophy helped shape a more intimate environment centered on presence, meaningful conversation, and connection beyond surface-level networking.

Today, The Wine Down reflects how intentional connection frameworks like Networking on Purpose can be integrated into established communities to elevate how people engage, follow up, and build relationships over time. This experience collaboration demonstrates the role of intentionality in strengthening continuity, community, and connection.

Designed for Deepening Connections, not starting from scratch!

A Relaxed Experience featuring wine, conversation, and connection without pressure!

A Monthly Rhythm, held the first Wednesday of every month!

A Focus on Meaningful Relationship Building inspired by Networking on Purpose!

Build Beyond the Room with The EMG Network

A leadership and networking hub for purpose-driven professionals and entrepreneurs to activate their strengths, elevate their visibility, and expand their influence. Whether you’re leading a team, growing a business, or building your network, The EMG Network connects you to insights, resources, and conversations that help you build beyond the room—and beyond the moment. (Program will launch in January 2026)

Join the EMG Network