You don't need well-connected friends to get the word out, but if you have some, share your work with them. The important thing is to start, to try and make a difference. It matters little who does the work. You need to know your stuff enough for others to accept what you say, but writers can produce their own if editors won't. At some large metros, a senior writer, not an editor, does the coaching.
Most editors think they're too busy.
But they're likely to jump in once someone else gets the ball rolling. So start rolling, and have some fun. Your success may amaze you.