Academic development usually focuses on individuals, with activities bounded by institutional strategy. There is a lack of research exploring the emergence of cross-institutional communities of practice and their ability to offer opportunities for professional collaboration, particularly for underrepresented or marginalised groups. Our study highlights how, after a formal program, individuals from different institutions facilitated deeper connections, transcending hierarchical boundaries and nurturing a sense of trust. Drawing from our experiences, we examine the emergence of a collegiate group of academic women as a community of practice. Co-development through community-based relationships enable personal and professional growth outcomes including, but not limited to, promotion and esteem recognition.