On Thursday, 6th March, I had the absolute privilege of co-hosting the International Professional Security Association (IPSA) International Women’s Day event, held in the elegant surroundings of The Royal Society of Chemistry. Alongside the incredible Marie Tyler, whose energy and passion were infectious we welcomed an audience filled with inspiring women to celebrate, learn, and unite in a shared vision of empowerment across the security sector.
The day was electric from the very beginning. Our speakers took us on deeply personal journeys across the security, police, and fire services. Stories of determination, resilience, and breaking through barriers that still exist in traditionally male-dominated spaces were shared with such raw honesty. These women are the leaders, changemakers, and trailblazers redefining what it means to be in security today and they were generous enough to bring us into their world for the day.
One speaker who profoundly moved me was Sarb Athwal. Sarb stood before us with a strength that took the breath out of the room, sharing her story and raising awareness about the brutal reality of honour-based violence. Her courage, as she relived experiences no one should have to endure, and her unwavering determination to put an end to these harmful practices, were formidable. It’s a moment I will carry with me always, a reminder of why our work in creating safe spaces matters.
And then came a personal highlight I will never forget. The following day, Friday 7th March I had the honour of introducing the phenomenal Dame Kelly Holmes to the stage at The Athena Effect. Through spoken word poetry, I tried to capture even a fraction of what Dame Kelly represents to so many of us, strength, hope, and triumph against all odds.
Dame Kelly brought together a community of women who are challenging norms, breaking silences, and lifting each other higher. She created a space that was both powerful and nurturing, where real, raw conversations took place about the issues we often shy away from, like menopause, mental health, and the unique challenges women face in male-dominated industries.
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