Empowerment and Networking Opportunities
In the UK, various corporate events and conferences specifically tailored for women have emerged as platforms of empowerment, connection, and inspiration. These gatherings not only celebrate women’s achievements in the corporate world, but also address the unique challenges they face. With a rise in awareness about gender equality and the importance of diversity in the workplace, these events are becoming increasingly significant. Below, we spotlight some of the leading corporate events for women, offering insights into their impact and the opportunities they present.
1. Women of Silicon Roundabout
Held annually in London, the Women of Silicon Roundabout is one of the most influential tech events in the UK, aimed specifically at women. This event attracts over 6,000 attendees and features more than 300 speakers across multiple stages. The primary focus is on encouraging and supporting women in technology through inspiring keynotes, workshops, and networking opportunities.
Statistics show that women represent only 23% of the STEM workforce in the UK, according to a report by PwC (available here). Events like Women of Silicon Roundabout are crucial in bridging this gender gap by providing a platform for sharing knowledge, fostering mentorships, and highlighting the contributions of women in tech. High-profile companies such as Google, Facebook, and Bloomberg have been known to participate, reflecting the event’s prestige and impact.
2. The Women in Business Expo
The Women in Business & Tech Expo is a two-day event that provides resources, knowledge, and connections for women at any stage of their entrepreneurial journey. It covers a range of topics from career development to franchising. Notably, women-led startups receive 157% higher returns than those led by men, yet they find it harder to secure capital (British Business Bank). Events like these are crucial in closing these gaps by providing knowledge and networking opportunities.
Female entrepreneurs made up only 32.3% of the UK’s smaller business leaders in 2020, equating to less than 7,300 businesses.
British Business Bank
3. The British Chambers of Commerce Annual Conference
While not exclusively for women, the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Annual Conference holds significant relevance due to its focus on economic discussions and its inclusion of influential female leaders from various sectors. The conference features debates, keynote addresses, and panels that often highlight the challenges and successes of women in business.
In recent years, the conference has seen an increasing emphasis on diversity and inclusivity, making it a crucial event for female entrepreneurs and executives seeking insights into the broader economic landscape. Past speakers have included prominent businesswomen who have shared their journeys, thereby inspiring a new generation of female leaders.
4. Everywoman Forum
The Everywoman Forum is an annual event that gathers hundreds of women from different sectors to celebrate and advance women’s leadership in business. The forum includes a series of workshops, keynote sessions, and networking events designed to foster skills development and collaboration among women.
According to a McKinsey report, companies with strong diversity in gender are 27% more likely to outperform their peers. The Everywoman Forum plays a vital role in promoting this diversity by empowering women with the skills and connections needed to thrive in leadership roles.
5. Women in Finance Summit
The finance sector, notorious for its glass ceiling, sees the Women in Finance Summit as a beacon of change. This London-based event focuses on the role of women in finance and discusses strategies for overcoming obstacles and embracing opportunities within the sector.
With 32% of Finance prosessionals perceive that jobs in their sector tend to be positioned towards male applicants, as noted by a Deliotte report, the summit is more than just an event; it’s a movement towards equality. Featuring senior female executives from leading institutions like HSBC and Barclays, the summit provides unparalleled insight into the finance industry through a female lens.
6. WIN Conference
The Women’s International Networking (WIN) Conference is a global leadership event that takes place in different locations, including the UK. It is designed to inspire, develop, and connect women leaders from around the world. The conference covers various aspects of leadership, entrepreneurship, and personal development, making it a holistic event for female professionals looking to expand their horizons.
Workshops at WIN are geared towards personal and professional growth, offering tools and strategies that are directly applicable in the participants’ daily professional lives. This global platform also allows attendees to connect with like-minded professionals from across the world, facilitating a unique cultural exchange and networking experience.
7. The Great British Businesswoman Awards
While primarily an awards ceremony, The Great British Businesswoman Awards is a significant event in the UK’s corporate calendar. It recognises the achievements of women across different sectors, providing nominees and attendees with unparalleled networking opportunities. Events like these not only celebrate success but also inspire other women to strive for excellence. Award ceremonies highlight the achievements of women, proving that their contributions are invaluable to the UK’s economic prowess.
8. Women in Leadership Conference
Leadership roles have traditionally been male-dominated, with only 34% of senior leadership roles in the UK held by women (Grant Thornton). The Women in Leadership Conference focuses on changing this narrative by empowering women with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to take on leadership positions. Through workshops, keynote speeches, and panel discussions, the conference is a cornerstone event for aspiring and established women leaders.
9. Women’s Health at Work Conference
Recognising that health and wellbeing are pivotal to professional success, the Women’s Health at Work Conference addresses the unique challenges faced by women in the corporate world. From mental health to work-life balance, the conference covers a variety of topics to help women thrive in their professional and personal lives. Given that 93% of women in the UK say a lack of work-life balance has negatively impacted their mental health (Bloom), this event is essential in addressing these issues head-on.
10. The PowerWomen Network Meetups
Though not a single event, the PowerWomen Network organises multiple meetups throughout the year in various cities across the UK. These meetups are designed for women at different stages of their careers and focus on subjects ranging from digital marketing to corporate law. They provide a relaxed yet professional environment for networking and learning. Regular attendees report a significant enhancement in their professional networks and a better understanding of their industry landscape.
Conclusion
These events highlight the vibrant landscape of corporate gatherings dedicated to empowering women in the UK. They not only serve as forums for learning and discussion but also act as catalysts for change, driving towards a more inclusive corporate world. Participation in such events can significantly impact one’s professional journey, offering fresh perspectives, learning opportunities, and invaluable networking.
As more organisations recognise the importance of diversity and the unique contributions women can make in corporate roles, it is likely that the scale and scope of such events will continue to grow. They are not just events; they are stepping stones to a more equitable and successful corporate future.
Are you looking to partner with someone for your next women-empowered event? Here at Active, we have over 30 years of experience in corporate events. Get in touch with our Events Team today to find out how we can help you to inspire women in the workplace.
