Students, staff, alumni and industry leaders came together last Friday (6 March) at BNU's High Wycombe campus to celebrate International Women’s Day and explore this year’s theme Give to Gain at the 2026 Women in Business Conference.
The event brought together a diverse group of people - not just women - for meaningful conversations about leadership, inclusion and career development, while highlighting the strength of the BNU community and its connections with industry.
A vibrant start
The morning began with refreshments and networking as attendees gathered to connect with colleagues, students and professional partners.
Dr Leah Fox, Dean of the College of Leadership and Innovation, welcomed guests and encouraged participants to reflect on the theme Give to Gain. She spoke about the importance of collaboration, challenging boundaries and recognising the collective power of women shaping the future of business.
Voices from industry and BNU alumni
A series of inspiring talks showcased the journeys and perspectives of influential speakers from across business and industry:
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Sakilé Graham (GE Healthcare) and Abi Frazdaq (PwC), both BNU alumnae, reflected on their early career experiences and the confidence required to succeed in competitive sectors.
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Sharon Blyfield OBE, Head of Early Careers at Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, shared her passion for widening opportunities for young people and championing underrepresented talent.
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Josie Smith, former Chief Technology Officer at Marks & Spencer, provided insights from leading large-scale digital transformation while advocating for greater representation of women in technology.
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Sophie Campbell, Neurodiversity Diagnostic Clinical Lead, explored the experiences of neurodivergent women in the workplace and highlighted the importance of inclusive organisational practices.
Panel discussion and networking
A lively panel discussion brought together different perspectives from across industries, allowing attendees to ask questions and reflect on the themes explored throughout the morning.
The conference concluded with closing remarks from Leah, followed by a networking lunch where conversations continued and new professional connections were formed.
Teamwork
The conference was made possible thanks to colleagues from across the University. From planning and logistics to preparing the space, welcoming guests, managing technology, coordinating communications and providing catering, their combined efforts created a welcoming and professional environment for all attendees.
Celebrating leadership and community
The Women in Business Conference highlighted the strength, ambition, creativity and leadership within the BNU community. By bringing together students, alumni, staff and industry partners, the event reinforced the importance of collaboration, mentorship and shared experiences in driving meaningful change.