With only 10% of FTSE 100 companies led by female chief executives, the University of Brighton is bringing together industry leaders for a powerful discussion on accelerating progress towards equity in leadership and business.
The event on 6 March will provide a platform for local women business leaders to share insights, inspire change and explore solutions to systemic barriers in leadership, education and economic participation.
Taking place at the University of Brighton’s Moulsecoomb campus, the free event is open to students, professionals and members of the public who are passionate about championing women’s voices in leadership.
The panel will feature four business leaders from a range of industries who will share their experiences and insights on how individuals and organisations can accelerate gender equality in the workplace and beyond. By fostering inclusivity and empowerment, this discussion aims to drive meaningful progress towards gender equity.
The University of Brighton is committed to creating opportunities for collaboration, networking, and mentorship, ensuring that future leaders – regardless of gender – are equipped to drive innovation and progress in their industries.
Professor Catherine Robinson, dean of the School of Business and Law (SBL), said: “SBL seeks to shape and support responsible education for a fairer society, promoting inclusive practices that respect diversity.
“International Women’s Day helps to shine a light on an inequality that affects half the population but also to celebrate the achievements of women.
“Successful reduction in the gender pay and influence gaps enable all decision-making to be more reflective of the world we live in.”
Meet the panellists
Mo Kanjilal – co-creator, Watch This Sp_ce
Mo Kanjilal, a University of Brighton alumna, is a Diversity, Equity & Inclusion leader, speaker, entrepreneur and co-founder of Watch This Sp_ce, a multi-award-winning diversity and inclusion company committed to helping organisations build inclusive workforces and drive positive change. Mo is also a mentor and trustee advocating for workplace inclusion.
Mo said: “International Women’s Day has always been about driving systemic change to address gender equality. The UN Women’s theme is ‘For ALL womenand girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment’, and this event is about speeding up those systemic changes we need to empower all women across sectors. This exciting event brings together a cross section of people to talk about this important work.”
Sarah Hollinsworth – chief of staff, Barclays Corporate Secretariat
With 18 years in financial services, Sarah is chief of staff for Barclays Corporate Secretariat, the company secretary for Barclays Execution Services Limited and currently providing company secretarial support to the Invest in Women Taskforce.
Sarah said: “Raising awareness of different professions and understanding how to overcome perceived barriers to entry and progression is essential. There should be no limit to what a woman can accomplish.”
Pippa Moyle – CEO and founder, City Girl Network
Pippa Moyle is the CEO and founder of City Girl Network, a 150,000-strong community empowering women, and City Girl Creatives, supporting women and non-binary creatives. She was named a Top 100 Female UK Entrepreneur by Small Business Britain and a UN Women UK Delegate in 2024.
Amy Oldham – founder, Curious Being & commercial director, KOKO Studios
Amy Oldham, a University of Brighton alumna, is commercial director at KOKO Studios and founder of Curious Being, providing coaching, training and consulting to cultivate curiosity and drive business excellence.
The University’s commitment to gender equality
Co-organised by the School of Business and Law, Women in Business Society and Marketing Society, and sponsored by the Help to Grow: Management Course, this event aligns with the UN’s International Women’s Day 2025 theme: For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.
Marking the second instalment of the University’s School of Business and Law’s Women in Leadership event series, the panel reinforces the University’s dedication to supporting local businesses, advancing women in leadership and driving meaningful change in society.
The University of Brighton is committed to fostering innovation, diversity, and leadership in business and education. Through initiatives like this, it aims to empower future leaders and drive meaningful change in society.
