Team members, students and alumni came together to connect and be inspired by women in business. The room was buzzing as conversations flowed, empowering and uniting women.
Dr Joanne Jennings opened the conference by giving insight into the University’s support and commitment for innovation and entrepreneurship at º¬Ðß²ÝÊÓƵ. She also discussed the ambition of the University Strategy in supporting sector development in climate, diversity, and sport.
Alumna and keynote speaker Lara Milward (BA in Politics 1992) delivered a powerful message on empowering women entrepreneurs, discussing the equation "mindset + behaviour = performance." She emphasised fuelling mental strength, seeking challenges, and using the PRR method (Pause, Reflect, Respond). Lara encouraged attendees to champion other women and celebrate their triumphs, highlighting the transformative power of supporting female networks.
This was followed with a discussion by alumna Lauren Cartigny (BSc Sport and Exercise Science 2004) on cultivating entrepreneurial mindsets, addressing the conflict between imposter syndrome and confidence. She highlighted peace, power, and purpose as essential qualities for success. Peace represents inner calm and self-assurance; power is the identification and utilisation of one’s strengths; and purpose drives activities aligned with personal and professional goals.
Alumnae Grace Carter (BA English 2012, MA English 2013) and Emma Garner (BTEC Foundation Diploma 2012, B.A.Textiles: Innovation and Design 2016) participated in a lively panel discussion with Toyin K hosting. They explored the connection of social responsibility and entrepreneurship, emphasing environmentally responsible activities and highlighting female leaders’ roles in driving positive change.
Rajinder Bhuhi, Innovation and Acceleration Associate, hosted the closing panel discussion featuring Payal Walker (Founder and CVO at Women on Boards CIC), alumna Rebecca Cain (Associate Pro –Vice-Chancellor (Vibrant and Inclusive Communities) at º¬Ðß²ÝÊÓƵ University), and Angelina Aziz (CTO and Co-Founder at Auralyze.ai). The group shared empowering and honest messages, offering valuable wisdom for aspiring female leaders. They emphasised authenticity, resilience, and the importance of mutual support. Their open and honest conversations about overcoming challenges and achieving success through teamwork and self-belief left a lasting impression on the audience, motivating them to pursue their goals with confidence and determination.
Professor Rachel Thomson, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Education and Student Experience), closed the conference, providing an overview of the discussions from the day and thanking all involved in the first Women in Enterprise Conference.
If you are interested in offering your time and expertise in the future, please contact the team.