How she made it

Last Tuesday, I was honoured to be invited to sit as a panelist at the first of a series of events entitled, ‘How She Made It, held by the team at The Club at The Ivy. Myself and the Semple team arrived at the intimate and glamorous surroundings of The Loft where we were warmly greeted with champagne and over indulged in canapés. Before the event began, we had the opportunity to introduce ourselves to many of the 40 other inspirational women who had been invited by Tanya, Mary and Meredith for their achievements. I was then ‘miked up’, and took my place at the front with the other panelists, the Women’s Editor of the Guardian, Jane Martinson, and Frances Dickens, CEO and co-founder of the Astus Group. To keep us in line and to prevent us from talking too much was Kay Burley, Sky News founder member and presenter, who also introduced us to the audience.

The topics of discussion were interesting and very thought-provoking and it was truly inspiring to see so many passionate women under one roof. The three panelists took it in turns to share their route to success before answering set questions about their own boardroom experiences before listening to audience members share their own anecdotes. The event enabled everyone to see the challenges women face in different business sectors and how they overcame unsupportive or discriminating colleagues. The discussion time flew by and once Kay drew the event to a close, The Loft was the perfect backdrop to continue our talks to one another informally, exchange business cards and meet more inspiring women like Sally Foote, Founder of Febdigital, Rassami Hok Ljungberg, Director at 2 Pears, and Tina Nisson, who owns an event stylist company.

As the evening drew to a close, I think it’s safe to say, that everyone left feeling even more inspired, ambitious and determined to continue striving for success. An event of this kind, which celebrates the achievements of women, does not come around often, and it was a privilege to be able to tell my story and hear the accomplishments of many. I know myself, and the MSL team, are already awaiting in anticipation for the next ‘How She Made it’ event on the 12 November, where no doubt, we will all once again hear some amazing stories from everyday women.

By Maggie