Building Your Version of Success
The Modern Woman Show will challenge, educate and inspire. All the ingredients are in place; great topics, renowned speakers and the spirit of collaboration, all designed to achieve your own version of success.
Our mission is to provide the strategies, insights, and inspiration needed to thrive in business and leadership. We help you build resilience and navigate the challenges of the modern workplace.
By bringing people together from multiple industries the show provides new perspectives and unparalleled opportunities for growth.
This is one event in 2025 you do not want to miss!
DURING THE DAY
- Thought provoking panel discussions
- Inspiring Fireside Q&As
- Powerful networking
- Dedicated industry focused sessions
- Multiple workshops
- Speed Mentoring
- Legal Clinic
AFTER DARK
- Relaxed Networking in a beautiful setting
- Canapés
- Drinks
- Live artists
- DJ’s in collaboration with Mi Soul Radio
- Available to those not attending the day sessions
We're proud to be showcasing over 30 renowned speakers across the day each sharing their insights, inspiration and expertise.
Allison English
Co-founder and Co-CEO, Aéto Strategy
I’m an American by way of Asia who moved to the UK in 2017. My background is in graphic design and printing, and I found my way into Property/Real Estate by happenstance while looking for a career change where I could make a real impact on people’s lives. In 2018 I joined Leesman, the world’s leading independent assessor of workplace experience, as Client Services Director and was promoted to Deputy CEO in 2020. In July 2024 I left Leesman to co-lead a spin-off organisation, Aéto Strategy, to help clients turn data into insights they can act on to help people in their work. I am passionate about business being a force for good, having led initiatives for Leesman to become B Corp certified in 2022 and part of the Careers After Babies Accreditation programme in 2023. I am also an active member and past board member of the Zonta Club of London, which is part of Zonta International, a global non-profit helping advance the status of women and girls around the world. I am on the CREW UK board, the Careers After Babies Accreditation board, and the Advisory Board for the London Workspace Design Show. I love spending time with my husband and two little ones, catching up with friends and fa
Avril Palmer-Lavery
Founder and Executive Chairman of Constellation Automotive Group
Avril Palmer-Lavery is the Founder and Executive Chairman of Constellation Automotive group, which owns BCA, We Buy Any Car, cinch and Marshall Motor Group amongst many other brands. She has over 35 years of experience in leading businesses in the automotive and industrial sector. Avril is also currently the Non-Executive Chairman for ZIGUP PLC.
Ayesha Ofori
Founder and CEO, Propelle
Ayesha Ofori is the founder and CEO of Propelle - the UK’s first and only female focused investment platform. Built on 3 key pillars: Financial Education, Community and Investments, Propelle’s mission is to financially empower women and to help close the £1.65trn UK gender wealth gap. Propelle wants women to be able to invest with confidence, regularly and build long-term, sustainable wealth. Ayesha is an ex-Goldman Sachs wealth adviser where she worked for 6 years, personally managing over £500m. She holds an MBA from London Business School and an Msci in Physics from Imperial College London.
Cassandra Codling
Regional Director, NHBC
Cassie is NHBC’s first female Regional Director and, before that, was the company’s first female Building Inspector, leading the way for women in the business and in the wider construction industry. She is a dedicated mentor to NHBC’s female talent, encouraging the next generation of women in construction, demonstrating how they can thrive in the industry. Her leadership, pioneering spirit and mentorship continue to inspire positive change and diversity within the sector. Cassie has a First Class BSc Honours degree in Construction and in her current role is involved in: the development of NHBC’s products; helping to identify new commercial opportunities within the housing market; overseeing the retention and development of NHBC’s customer base; and driving improvements in the build quality of new homes.
Ceri Evans
Global Director, Cost and Commercial Management, Mace
Ceri Evans joined Mace in May 2024 as their Global Director of Cost and Commercial Management for Mace Consult and Board member. Ceri previously spent 14 years at Bechtel, most recently leading Contracts and Procurement for Bechtel’s Infrastructure business across EAMS UK&I. An experienced leader for over 25+ years in strategic operational, programme, portfolio and commercial management, Ceri has significant experience in the construction industry as a client, consultant and contractor across the UK, MEA, Asia Pac and the Americas regions. She has extensive experience at Executive and Board level as well as leading teams on some of the world largest Infrastructure programmes.
Charlotte Whincup
Director and Co-Owner, Bloom Building Consultancy
Charlotte Whincup is a Director and Co-Owner of Bloom Building Consultancy. Charlotte began her career with a degree in Architectural Environment Engineering, which led to a focus on Building Surveying, gaining expertise across residential, industrial, retail, and commercial sectors. With a strong track record in surveying services, including dilapidations advice, Reinstatement Cost Assessments and Planned Maintenance Reports, Charlotte has also worked on projects ranging from office refurbishments to high-end residential builds. Recently, her focus has shifted to sustainability, becoming an Associate Member of the Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment. At Bloom, sustainability is woven through every service, with a commitment to helping clients achieve their sustainability goals while balancing social, economic, and environmental impacts in the built environment.
Chris Tuck
Connector, Communicator, Change Agent
Chris is a highly respected speaker, presenter, trainer, and advocate whose impactful work spans government institutions, law enforcement, education, and the third sector, draws on both lived experience and expertise to deliver powerful talks that shape policy, influence frontline practice & inspire change. Her work provides expert insight on child protection, safeguarding, and victim support, with a focus on health and well-being, particularly regarding primary and secondary trauma. Chris addresses abuse, bullying, and the long-term effects of trauma, ensuring professionals, educators, and frontline workers are equipped with the knowledge and tools to offer effective support. From advising on national inquiries to training police officers in trauma-informed approaches and engaging students in resilience, her voice resonates across diverse audiences. Her ability to turn complex issues into actionable solutions keeps victims and survivors at the heart of conversations on justice, safeguarding, and well-being. Whether influencing strategic decisions or connecting with individuals, her speaking engagements leave a lasting impact, fostering awareness, action, and systemic change.
Dame Kelly Holmes
Double Olympic Champion
Dame Kelly Holmes is a double Olympic Gold Medallist and an icon of resilience and determination. She began her career in the British Army at 17, serving for nearly a decade before shifting her focus to athletics. Over 12 years, she won multiple medals at the Commonwealth, European, World, and Olympic levels. Her historic double gold in the 800m and 1500m at the 2004 Athens Olympics cemented her legacy in sporting history. Beyond her achievements on the track, Dame Kelly is a dedicated advocate for change. In 2008, she founded the Dame Kelly Holmes Trust, which supports young people from disadvantaged backgrounds by connecting them with elite athlete mentors. She is also a mental health advocate, an Honorary Colonel, and an Honorary Fellow of the Royal College of Psychiatrists. Her 2022 documentary, Kelly Holmes: Being Me, highlighted her journey to authenticity and her commitment to inclusion. For over 20 years, Dame Kelly has shared her experiences as a motivational speaker, inspiring people worldwide with her story of resilience, ambition, and personal growth.
Dinah Cobbinah
Business Transformation - Technology Advisor and Senior Leader
Dinah is a Business Transformation and Technology Advisor with over 25 years of experience across manufacturing and financial services. For the past 15 years, she’s focused on Banking, Insurance, and Wealth & Asset Management, implementing digital solutions that drive efficiency and business value. A recently retired Big 4 Partner, Dinah was the first Black heritage female partner at her firm and a key DEI advocate. She led Digital & Process Transformation for FS Customer & Operations and was a senior member of the Global Digital, AI, and Low Code centre of excellence. In 2023, she won the Senior Leader category at the Black British Business Awards. Outside of work, Dinah is a proud mother, vinyl collector, live music fan, and Trustee for the Patchwork Foundation, supporting young people from disadvantaged communities. She remains dedicated to creating pathways for diverse talent, especially women.
Dr Carol Massay
Senior Board Advisor, Construction Industry
Carol has over four decades of experience in the construction industry, working with some of the UK’s largest contractors in house building and civil engineering. Passionate about career growth, personal development, and technology adoption, she advocates for equality and diversity, particularly as a Caribbean woman. A trusted advisor and thought leader, Carol provides strategic guidance and digital transformation solutions. She has led teams, fostering a culture of learning and innovation throughout her career. Carol made history as the first woman of Caribbean heritage to become CEO of a UK construction software company, winning ERP Software of the Year for six consecutive years. She led the company’s acquisition by The Access Group in 2020. Now holding a doctorate, Carol remains committed to attracting young talent and increasing diverse representation in the sector, helping bridge the gap between education and industry to future-proof the construction sector.
Dr David Hancock
Senior Commercial Advisor, Cabinet Office
Professor David Hancock is a chartered engineer and the senior commercial advisor in the Cabinet Office providing infrastructure, construction and project support across Government departments. A graduate of the Major Projects Leadership Academy and a high-risk project reviewer. He chairs the Government Construction Community and sits on a variety of government boards including Buckingham Palace refurbishment, the British Antarctic Survey, the 'Modern Woman' advisory panel and is non-executive chair of CIRIA. Renowned internationally as a leading thinker and practitioner in the field of behavioural risk. He has a Degree and PhD in engineering from the University of Nottingham alongside an MBA from Bath and is honorary professor at The Bartlett School of Sustainable Construction, UCL
Dr Heather Melville, OBE CMgr CCMI FCBI
Partner, Stork & May
Heather has over 40 years of experience in Financial, Professional, and Technology Services, specializing in international trade, entrepreneurship, and corporate banking. She is a distinguished business thought leader, known for building high-performing diverse teams and advising FTSE CEOs. Heather is a respected public speaker who has addressed global business audiences, including C-Suite leaders and royalty. She has received numerous accolades, including being listed on the Black Powerlist and receiving an OBE for her services to Banking and Financial Services. Heather is a member of the Executive Leadership Council (ELC) and the CFO's Diversity Forum for Business in the Community (FTSE100). She serves as Patron of Women in Banking & Finance (WIBF) and became a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Bankers in June 2024. In 2022, Heather was inaugurated as the Chancellor of the University of York and has served as a Senior Advisor to various financial services. She has held trustee roles with Enfield Enterprise and the Chartered Management Institute (CMI). Currently, she is on the committee for Companions and has been elected to the Everyone Economy Committee.
Emma Kane
Head of EMEA and Deputy Group CEO, SEC Newgate
Emma Kane is a strategic communications expert with over three decades of experience in building brands and reputation management. A trusted adviser to CEOs and Chairs of leading organisations, Emma specialises in helping clients communicate effectively across diverse stakeholder groups. She is recognised as one of the most influential communications professionals in Britain. Emma spent 18 years building Redleaf Communications, a corporate and financial communications firm, before becoming CEO of the group that acquired her business in 2018. She is now the Head of EMEA and Deputy Group CEO of SEC Newgate, the world’s 20th largest communications group, as well as CEO of its UK business. In addition to her corporate role, Emma is deeply involved in philanthropic work, currently serving as Deputy Chair of the Elton John AIDS Foundation and Deputy Chair of the Green Finance Institute. She was awarded the Freedom of the City of London in 2017 for her contributions to the sector.
Florence Keelson-Anfu
Senior Manager, Private Markets at the London Stock Exchange plc.
Florence Keelson-Anfu is a Senior Manager in Private Markets at London Stock Exchange plc. In this role, she supports high growth companies to achieve their fundraising goals with Floww. Prior to this, she worked as a Programme Manager on large scale transformation programmes in consulting and industry
Hannah Gordon
Seasoned Automotive Expert
Hannah is a seasoned automotive expert with over 20 years of experience across classic cars, motorsport, and electric vehicles. With a passion for innovation and a deep understanding of automotive engineering, Hannah has carved out a remarkable career that spans hands-on mechanics, entrepreneurship, and media. A qualified EV mechanic, Hannah ran her own successful car repair workshop for four years, specializing in cutting-edge vehicle technology. Her expertise extends to the entertainment industry, where she has built and customized cars for TV and film, bringing automotive dreams to life on screen. Hannah has also shared her knowledge and enthusiasm as the host of two popular car TV shows, making her a familiar and trusted face in the automotive world. Whether discussing the intricacies of classic car restoration, the future of electric vehicles, or the thrill of motorsport, Hannah brings a wealth of practical experience and a dynamic perspective to every conversation. Her engaging storytelling and technical expertise make her a sought-after speaker for audiences passionate about the past, present, and future of automobiles.
Helen Pattinson
Co-Founder, Montezuma’s Chocolates
Helen and her husband Simon founded the ethical chocolate business, Montezuma’s Chocolates after travelling around South America during a break from their legal careers. The fledgling ideas for Montezuma’s grew from a lifestyle business with clearly defined trading fairly principles into Britain’s most creative chocolate maker and retailer. Opening its doors as a retailer in 2000, Montezuma’s is now a multi-channel business across the UK and internationally, making all of its own products in its chocolate factory near Chichester. Helen and Simon sold a majority of the business to investors in 2018 and after a few years working alongside private equity they are no longer involved with the business. They now invest in growing food businesses and enjoy mentoring entrepreneurs at all stages of their journey, as well as sitting on the Board of a handful of interesting, creative and ethical businesses. Helen is also a trustee of the incredible children’s charity Children on the Edge for whom, she has helped to raise over £250k for their work with marginalised children around the world.
Helena Hudson
Founder, The Real Eating Company
Helena is one of the few female founders in the UK that owns and runs a multi-site hospitality business. The Real Eating Company was created solely by her in January 2004 following a successful advertising career in London. After relocating to the south coast with her family in 2001, she quickly spotted the potential for a high-quality British casual dining café and coffee concept in the South East and decided to redirect her expertise, energy and funds into building such a business from scratch. Since its founding, Helena has grown the Real Eating Company into a successful, well-established independent café and coffee shop collection with 8 locations across the South of England. Today she proudly recruits 73 people across these shops in Chichester, Canterbury, Cambridge, Horsham, London and Maidstone. Highly respected in her field, she is a passionate advocate for likeminded businesses and has very hands-on experience navigating the hurdles of entrepreneurship, including steering the stormy seas of the COVID-19 pandemic, ongoing hospitality staffing challenges, the rising cost of goods, energy and general living as well as managing concerns around the upcoming budget policies.
Jo Dalton
Founder, Investor, Board Advisor, and Talent Expert
Jo Dalton is a Founder, Investor, Board Advisor, and Talent Expert, who has been advising the founders and entrepreneurs of some of the most successful, scaleup brand for nearly two decades. With a keen eye for early stage future unicorns, Jo is a prominent angel investor in over a dozen scaling businesses, with a particular focus on impact ventures, the circular economy and health and wellbeing. Jo sits on two Boards, supporting brilliant founders unlock scale globally and a proud member of the Alma Angels Network, a network of angels set up to invest in female founders and underrepresented groups. Jo also understands first-hand how much more difficult it is for female led businesses to attract investment and achieve growth, having grown several seven figure businesses. In 2011, Jo launched JD&Co from her kitchen as a lone founder with no funding in place. Since its inception, Jo is immensely proud to have grown it to now being one of the leading Headhunting and Founder Advisory firms in Europe, building the Boards and Leadership teams of some of the fastest growing disruptive, challenger brands in the world.
Jordan Brompton
Co Founder, myenergi
Business leader, tech entrepreneur and sustainable investor, Jordan Brompton is the co-founder of myenergi – a global leader in eco-smart home energy technology. Alongside forging fundamental business relationships, Jordan is responsible for driving the day-to-day corporate strategy and fuelling long-term international expansion. With the ambition of leaving the planet in a better place than she found it, Jordan has been presented with a number of prestigious awards and accolades for her pioneering work. Alongside being crowned Great British Entrepreneur of the Year, she was named in the TE100, the Stonehage Fleming XV, the Top 10 Women in Energy and took home gold as EY Entrepreneur of the Year (North). Never one to sit still, she became a published author with her debut book ‘Sparki and the journey to Earth’, which aims to educate children about the importance of working towards a greener future
Kristina Simpson
Director in the Automotive team, Savills
Kristina is a Director in the Automotive team at Savills and has worked in the sector for over 15 years providing property advice to car dealer groups, car manufacturers, property companies and landlords. She covers a wide range of automotive properties from car dealerships, electric vehicle charging hubs, petrol filling stations and service stations. Kristina specialises in motor retail property helping clients with their market representation plans as well as assisting them in configuring their existing property assets to support their business. She covers property acquisitions and disposals, new build development, lease advisory and valuation. CAREER HISTORY Kristina joined Savills in 2023 following the acquisition of Automotive Property Consultancy. Having gained an MSc in Real Estate Management from London South Bank University, Kristina became a member of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) in 2012 and is a RICS Registered Valuer.
Lorraine Thomas
Founder, View From My Window
Lorraine Thomas is an award-winning property developer, mentor, and socially conscious landlord, celebrated for blending business expertise with a commitment to social impact. After transitioning from a career in legal business development to property in 2016, she founded View From My Window to provide affordable housing for vulnerable tenants. Starting with limited resources, Lorraine has grown her portfolio to projects worth up to £3.2 million. A passionate advocate for people-focused property development, Lorraine has earned recognition on the f:Entrepreneur #ialso100 list, spoken on panels for Google and Tide Bank, and even been invited to No.10 Downing Street. A sought-after speaker, she champions diversity in construction and has appeared at events like the Precious Wealth Conference and Women in Finance, inspiring future generations. Lorraine has also featured on BBC Politics Live and contributed to publications like The Telegraph and Homes and Gardens.
Mark Griffiths
Head of Marketing, Genesis Motor UK
Mark Griffiths, Head of Marketing for Genesis Motor UK, a seasoned communicator with two decades of experience in the automotive industry. Mark combines his expertise in media, customer experience, and sustainability with a deep commitment to luxury, inspiring his team and partners to push boundaries and deliver exceptional results as Genesis leads the way in the premium EV market. Mark spent 18 years working in Automotive PR across multiple luxury brands and entered the World of Marketing with Genesis twelve months ago, seeking to develop the brand presence across the UK and build an enviable reputation for customer experience.
Nicola Rabson
Senior Partner, Linklaters
Nicola is a senior partner at Linklaters. She was the first part time partner and has been a member of the executive committee, chair of the remuneration committee and global head of employment and incentives. She is listed in the hall of fame of Chambers for being ‘a cut above …thoughtful and forward thinking and simply outstanding’. She helps businesses on their most challenging, complex, and strategic people-related issues. With a particular focus on crisis mandates, investigations, discrimination, and harassment and managing disputes. Nicola was The Times lawyer of the week in 2015, a power part timer in 2015 and recognised as a top 10 ally to LGBT plus people in Its inaugural outstanding list. Nicola is also an Independent Non-Executive Director of Zigup plc and Nxera Pharma, a Senior Independent Director at Kent FA, and Governor of Royal Russell School. As a mother of three who has worked a variety of ways during her career, she is a mentor and ally to many and big supporter of woman across many industries.
Patricia Seabright
Consultant and Executive Coach
Patricia is a consultant and executive coach with a robust background in sales leadership at P&G and Coca-Cola, as well as consulting with Miller Heiman. Her clients range from startups to global corporations and public-sector organizations. She specializes in enhancing speaking skills, career development, persuasion, and gender balance advocacy. Patricia is also the author of “She Said!” and organizer of TEDx St Albans, committed to empowering women in business and politics.
Rebekah Clark
Founder & CEO, Beautiful Soup
An award-winning social impact specialist, Rebekah has delighted clients and positively influenced audiences across the globe for almost 25 years. Her boutique brand marketing consultancy, Beautiful Soup, founded in 2012, works with a range of clients and individuals, including the Tony Blair Institute, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and The Malala Fund. Rebekah is also the founder of Happy Marlo Studios, a conscious media company dedicated to raising a new generation of resilient and mindful children through broadcast entertainment, events, and experiences. A regular speaker, writer, podcast and broadcast media guest, Rebekah is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and a Non-Executive Director at King Alfred School in Hampstead. In 2022, she was recognized as a 40overForty winner - celebrated as one of the leading communication specialists globally – and in 2024, she was honored as an Iconic Female Leader at the House of Lords.
Sara Cartin
Senior Training Manager, NHBC
Sara is an experienced professional with over 20 years in the construction skills sector, currently serving as Senior Training Manager at NHBC. She leads the development of NHBC’s training programmes - including short duration training, management NVQs, apprenticeships and webinars - helping the sector meet evolving skill needs and ensuring high construction quality in new homes. Prior to NHBC, Sara was the Operations Manager at the Home Builders Federation (2016-2023), where she focused on supporting the home building industry to overcome challenges in attracting talent, workforce shortages and developing skills within the existing workforce, and, in doing so, progressing the culture of the sector. At CITB (2007-2016), she held various roles, including Head of Commercial Services, managing Europe’s largest construction training provider, where she grew commercial income and established strategic partnerships. Sara's career began as a Safety & Supervisory Training Advisor at CITB, where she supported companies in meeting health and safety training requirements. She dedicated her career to skills development, strategic partnerships, and supporting the construction sectors growth
Sarah Clay
CEO, Sarah Clay Social
Sarah Clay is the CEO of Sarah Clay Social, a LinkedIn marketing agency that helps CEOs and their employees elevate their personal brands on LinkedIn. With over 20,000 followers on LinkedIn and having built her business solely on the platform, Sarah teaches others to do the same. A trainer, consultant, author, and keynote speaker, she specializes in Employee Advocacy for B2C and B2B companies, offering a fun, no-nonsense approach to her teaching. Sarah works with business owners and their teams to help them generate more leads from LinkedIn, whether through training, hands-on support, or a combination of both. She delivers inspirational talks globally on LinkedIn, personal branding, employee advocacy, and thought leadership. With over 10 years of experience leading marketing and PR departments, Sarah previously ran her own social media agency, helping businesses of all sizes. Now, she focuses on training business owners to leverage LinkedIn for growth. Sarah also guest lectures at UK universities, helping students establish themselves on LinkedIn to kick-start their careers.
Susanna Rynehart
Specialist Employment Lawyer, Jones Chase
Susanna is a specialist employment lawyer advising and helping companies and individuals navigate issues that arise in the workplace. Susanna has a proven successful track record of excelling in providing timely, practical, commercial and unambiguous employment advice that delivers results for her clients.
Vanessa Brady OBE
CEO and Founder of British & International Design – SBID
Vanessa is an international multi-award winning Interior Designer, Business Consultant and Founder of the Society of British and International Design. Vanessa has amassed an award winning portfolio including projects such as Hard Rock Cafe, the Design Council, Kabaret Club, British Luxury Club, Unilever, high security government offices, His Majesty The Sultan of Brunei, King of Saudi Arabia, Head of State Palaces, the private residence of numerous diplomats and VIPs. In 2014 she began a collaboration with Sunseeker International on the new Predator II yacht. She is an inspirational speaker and spokesperson for Interior Design and an awards judge to her peers within the design profession across a variety of disciplines. In recognition of her high standard and design flair, Vanessa has been acknowledged for a number of high level Awards; most recently the 2014 Woman in the City ‘Woman of Achievement Award for the Built Environment’. Nominated in 2010, 2013 and 2014 by NatWest Bank for the NatWest everywoman Award’s.
Victoria Hutton
Digital Marketing & Business Growth Strategist
Victoria is a digital marketing strategist with over a decade of experience helping brands attract the right customers and scale through marketing and technology. She has worked with companies such as Polestar, Thermomix, and InstaVolt, focusing on customer acquisition, performance marketing, and digital strategies that drive real business growth. Originally from Moscow, Victoria began her career working with brands like Cirque du Soleil and Rolling Stone magazine. She also collaborated with the Mayor of Moscow to develop the city’s first travel platform for visitors. Later, she moved to the UK, where she rebuilt her career from the ground up, gaining firsthand experience in what it takes to stand out in a competitive market. Passionate about the psychology of human behaviour, technology, and innovation, Victoria combines these elements with marketing strategy to help businesses create strategies that connect and convert. At Modern Woman, she will share practical insights on attracting and engaging the right customers, building a digital ecosystem that works, and creating a brand that thrives in today’s fast-paced online world.
We have a roster of qualified coaches and mentors with diverse range of skillsets and life experience. Further coaches and mentors to be announced in the coming weeks who will be participating in our speed mentoring sessions on the day.
Kiriaki Joganaki
Founder, Be The Best You
Kiriaki is a dedicated mother, energy healer, and holistic beautician, helping female founders lose weight and feel healthier and happier through transformational healing. She is also the founder of the first holistic beauty centre in Greece, Beauty Story, and the holistic wellbeing centre Be The Best You. Trained by various experts in the field, Kiriaki has expertise in energy healing techniques—including Reiki, Breathwork, Reflexology, Shiatsu, and Martial arts—helping women align mind, body, and emotions for sustainable success. Her unique approach to holistic beauty brings deep emotional harmony, recognizing that true radiance comes from within.
Claire Bannister
The Unstoppable Growth Coach
Claire is a Business Coach for female business owners and leaders who want to take action, grow their revenue and build the business or career they want in order to get the life they deserve. Claire is a force of nature, supportive & honest coach who helps her clients smash their goals and have their best months ever, month on month. Claire utilises her vast senior leadership experience, coupled with her own business knowledge and formal mindset coaching qualifications to bring a wealth of tools and support to her clients in their own self development journey. She is colourful, vibrant and there is nothing she adores more than watching women collaborate, grow and create that unstoppable energy that happens when transformation happens.
Donna Still
Coach, Business Strategist and Energy Healer
As a passionate coach, business strategist, and energy healer, Donna has spent over 15 years empowering women to overcome challenges, heal past wounds, and realize their true potential. Her coaching journey began unexpectedly in 1995 when she transitioned from employment to self-employment. Seeking skills to grow her business, she immersed herself in an NLP Diploma program, eventually becoming a Master of NLP and a certified trainer. From an early career in caregiving to retraining as a painter and decorator, and later founding a successful female-led interior design business, she has consistently empowered others, particularly women. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated that women can thrive in traditionally male-dominated industries. She has mentored young women entering the construction industry and championed workplace inclusivity. In addition to coaching, she is a published author, mother of four, and proud grandmother of eight. She is dedicated to sharing her knowledge and experiences to help others achieve their full potential, regardless of their background or obstacles.
Hannah Beko
Trauma-Informed Women's Coach
As a lawyer, business owner, and mother, Hannah Beko understands the immense pressure many women face—balancing high expectations, professional demands, and personal responsibilities, often at the expense of their own wellbeing. Becoming a carer 18 months ago while navigating perimenopause and receiving a late ADHD diagnosis has provided her with a deeper understanding of the career journeys of the women she works with. In 2016, she founded Authentically Speaking to offer a different path—one that prioritises the nervous system, honours lived experiences, and helps individuals reconnect with who they truly are beneath the roles they perform. Her trauma-informed, holistic approach combines coaching, mentoring, and practical tools to support women who feel like they’re running on empty—whether in law, business, or any high-responsibility space. Through 1:1 sessions, group programmes, and workshops, she creates a safe space for women to explore what they truly want from their careers and lives—and how to move towards those goals with greater clarity, confidence, and calm. For those feeling tired, stuck, or on the edge of burnout, they are not alone, and they don’t have to naviga
Ian Lyons
Managing Director at Vertical Evolution
As co-founder and developer of a National market leading online legal services company; Ian developed and implemented a million pound plus; industry disruptive sales and marketing strategy. He has mentored and advised 0000's of successful new business start ups from multiple sectors. Implemented the sales strategy for a now successful; regional Accountancy Practice. Founded and developed a niche Debt Management Company from start up to profitable trading company. Re-designed and implemented the business plan to re-establish a key Social Enterprise for a large National Charity.
Patricia Seabright
Founder, Archimedes Consulting
Patricia has been coaching since 2004 and has worked with hundreds of women (and men) over that time. She is currently undertaking a masters in executive coaching at Ashridge. As a coach she particularly focuses on working with women to help them overcome the challenges they face in the workplace. What she has observed throughout her career is that women can be held back by not recognising the (sometimes subtle) challenges and bias that surround them; these challenges and biases can negatively affect women’s careers, whether they realise it or not. She is passionate about gender balance in the workplace. During lock down, she made good use of her down time by writing a book, “She Said!” about the women being heard, which became an Amazon best seller. Like all executives, the pressure of the workplace for women is often intense and Patricia’s coaching seeks to provide the precious opportunity to have space and support to identify and process all the challenges faced. She supports her clients in formulating and executing plans for personal and professional progress.
We are delighted to confirm this incredible soulful line up for our 'After Dark' entertainment in collaboration with Mi Soul Radio.
Louise Mehan of SouLutions will be performing interspersed with our amazing DJ's Janice & Lorraine & DJ Riot Girl over networking, drinks and canapés... And if last year is anything to go by, keep us dancing to the very end.
DJ RIOT GIRL
DJ
DJ Riot Girl, aka Jess, is a highly respected and sought-after DJ at London’s most exclusive venues, with residencies at the legendary Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club, Chiltern Firehouse, La Môme at The Berkeley, Annabel’s, and Maison Estelle. She also spins for all the DIVA Magazine events as well as for Dame Kelly Holmes. Her reputation extends well beyond these regular spots, with bookings at top London locations. Riot Girl is the go-to DJ following some of the biggest names in live music, having played alongside acts like Sister Sledge, Patrice Rushen, Incognito, and Omar, to name just a few. Often hailed as one of London’s best-kept secrets, she’s known for her signature blend of jazz, funk, soul, rare groove, disco, reggae, Latin, and soulful house.
LOUISE MEHAN
SouLutions
Introducing Louise Mehan, the voice of SouLutions, a powerhouse duo that made waves in the UK soul scene since 2014. With years of dedication, Steve Lee and Louise Mehan crafted their unique sound, blending soulful house with 'Philly soul' influences. They've released four albums—Destiny, Thankful, Fate, and Anthology—alongside chart-topping singles, earning them the title 'darlings of the modern soul scene.' Louise recently completed dual first-class degrees in Logistics and Event Management, and Creative Professional Practice, complemented by a Bachelor of Arts and a PGCE specializing in adult education. As co-founder of House of Sound Records and manager of SouLutions, Louise embodies relentless pursuit of growth in music and beyond, wearing multiple hats to drive both artistic and personal evolution.
JANICE & LORRAINE
DJ's
The first daytime female DJ's on Mi-Soul Radio. Janice & Lorraine have a weekly show playing their blend of funky house, disco and club classics. Check them out on DAB+, online at mi-soul.com or on your smart speaker. They starting their presenting and DJ career at Kiss 100 FM. They have interviewed many famous names from the music industry including Snoop Dogg, Mariah Carey, Luther Vandross, Lauryn Hill, Louie Vega, Roger Sanchez.
Show Themes
Speaker & Panel Sessions
As well as our Opening and Closing fireside chats, this year we cover a range of topics including:
Getting to the C-Suite & staying there
Can You Really Have it All?
Overcoming Adversity
Achieving Financial Freedom
Raising Investment
Industry Focus
We accelerate cross-industry learning by bringing together individuals from diverse sectors including:
Property & Construction
Automotive & EV 
Finance & Investment
Women in Music
Legal & Insurance
Technology
Workshop Sessions
Thought provoking and actionable, this year's workshops cover:
How to grow your business
A Woman's Voice
Mastering your Personal Brand through Social Media on LinkedIn & Meta
Raising Investment Round Table 
Constructing your Career 
Give back with Smart Works
Additionally, participate in our fundraising raffle for a chance to win exciting prizes, with all proceeds going directly to Smart Works.
Employment Clinic
We have been asked many times how & where to get advice on situations at work. We are pleased to be able to bring this service to you at this year's Show.
Whether you are an employer or an employee – do you have a burning question about employment law that you need answered or are you dealing with some tricky problems at work? Connect with Jones Chase's expert employment lawyers for a free 20-minute, fully confidential consultation. They would be delighted to help you.
Pre-registration required - Secure your spot!
Speed Mentoring
Speed Mentoring Sessions are always popular at the Show. This year we have 2 sessions, morning & afternoon.
Get one-on-one guidance in 15-minute sessions with expert coaches during this speed mentoring event. Gain valuable insights, actionable advice, and the opportunity to book follow-up sessions to deepen your learning
Previous Modern Woman Shows
If you have not attended a Modern Woman Show and would like to see the topics we cover and the quality of speakers who contribute, please take a look at our past shows.
Venue
The Grand Connaught Rooms,
61 - 65 Great Queen Street
London WC2B 5DA
Standing on Great Queen Street, that connects Covent Garden with Holborn in the West End of London, is the Grade II* listed De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms. With a history dating back to 1775, the building has long been an important event venue, and was once home to the original Freemasons’ Tavern before becoming a hotel in 1909. Since then, the venue has hosted some of the world‘s leading politicians, royalty and celebrities with its grand Georgian architecture and art-deco interiors offering 37 exceptional spaces for a wide range of conferences, exhibitions, meetings, training and weddings. Five minutes from Covent Garden and Holborn tube stations and 30 minutes’ walk or short taxi ride from Kings Cross, St Pancras and Euston train stations, the venue is well-connected for all major London transport links. Heathrow Airport is an hour away by rail or road.
Our 2025 Show Sponsors
Our 2025 Media Partners
