“We exist to give every creative, entrepreneur, and community voice the platform they deserve — through journalism, events, media, and entertainment.”
WAJ is a movement built on the belief that every creative deserves to be seen, every community deserves to be heard, and every culture deserves to be celebrated.
We Are Jersey began the way the best things do — between two friends from Bergen County who saw a gap and decided to fill it. Bridget Papino, from Westwood/Township of Washington, and Daniel Banks, from Saddle Brook, both believed that creatives, community voices, and culture makers in New Jersey — and beyond — deserved a real platform. Not a mention. Not a footnote. A platform.
In 2014, they built one. What started as a passion project became one of New Jersey’s most recognized independent media brands. Over a decade later, WAJ has grown into a full-service media company spanning a digital and print magazine, a thriving events presence, video production, photography, and marketing services. We don’t just cover culture — we create it, amplify it, and connect the people who drive it.
From Westwood/Township of Washington, NJ. Co-creator of WAJ and driving force behind its editorial vision and community mission since day one.
From Saddle Brook, NJ. Co-creator of WAJ bringing the media production expertise, events vision, and operational backbone of the company.
Photography, videography, podcast production, and social content. WAJ’s media arm creates professional content that amplifies creatives and brands across every platform.
Authentic storytelling through our print and digital magazine at wajmagazine.com. We’ve featured 500+ independent artists, entrepreneurs, athletes, and community leaders since 2014.
From intimate creative showcases to full-scale community productions, WAJ events bring people together in real life. Our calendar spans concerts, brunches, networking, and cultural celebrations.
DJ services, talent showcases, branding, and marketing. WAJ sits at the intersection of culture and commerce, connecting artists with audiences and brands with the communities they want to reach.
We Are Jersey launches in New Jersey with a bold mission: give independent creatives, artists, and entrepreneurs a real platform. The first issues cover local talent the mainstream ignores.
The magazine grows from a local publication into a cultural institution. Events launch alongside print issues, creating a full ecosystem where readers become participants.
WAJ celebrates its five-year anniversary having featured over 500 independent artists — a milestone proving the mission resonates far beyond New Jersey.
WAJ expands its digital presence, launches its YouTube channel and podcast, and begins featuring creatives from across the country. The audience grows nationally and internationally.
WAJ Magazine separates into its own digital property at wajmagazine.com — a full editorial platform with standalone website, shop, blog, and video content — while We Are Jersey ENT continues growing its services, events, and creative network.
WAJ continues to grow nationally and internationally, building partnerships, expanding events, launching the Creative Directory, and opening the platform to creatives everywhere who deserve to be heard.
“WAJ Magazine has been one of the most supportive platforms for independent artists in New Jersey. They truly care about showcasing real talent and giving creatives a voice.”
“The photography and videography team is incredible. Professional, creative, and always deliver beyond expectations. Highly recommend for any event or brand shoot.”
“Being featured in WAJ Magazine was a game changer for my brand. The coverage was professional, the team was amazing to work with, and the reach was incredible.”
“WAJ events are always top notch. The energy, organization, and the community they bring together is unmatched. Always leave feeling inspired and connected.”
“Working with the WAJ team on our DJ set was seamless. They understood exactly what we needed and delivered a performance that had everyone talking for weeks.”
Worked with us? We’d love to hear from you. Your feedback helps us grow and helps other creatives find the right platform.
From New Jersey to everywhere