University of Brighton hosts International Women’s Day Panel to tackle gender equality in leadership

The event on 6 March 2025 will provide a platform for local women business leaders to share insights, inspire change, and explore solutions to systemic barriers in leadership, education, and economic participation. Taking place at the University of Brighton’s Moulsecoomb campus, the free event is open to students, professionals, and members of the public who are passionate about championing women’s voices in leadership. You can sign-up for free.

The panel will feature four business leaders from a range of industries who will share their experiences and insights on how individuals and organisations can accelerate gender equality in the workplace and beyond. By fostering inclusivity and empowerment, this discussion aims to drive meaningful progress towards gender equity.

The University of Brighton is committed to creating opportunities for collaboration, networking, and mentorship, ensuring that future leaders – regardless of gender – are equipped to drive innovation and progress in their industries.

Professor Catherine Robinson, Dean of the University of Brighton’s School of Business and Law, said: "Here at the University of Brighton, we’re leading the way in responsible education, striving to create a more inclusive and equitable society in our city and beyond. International Women's Day allows us to focus on the critical need to address gender inequality, and to recognise that closing the gender pay and influence gaps benefits everyone.

"I’m delighted that our students and staff will be able to hear from our inspiring panel of leaders, which includes former University of Brighton graduates who have gone on to make their mark in the world of business. This day is about both acknowledging the challenges women face and celebrating their remarkable contributions."

Meet the panellists

Mo Kanjilal – Co-Creator, Watch This Sp_ce

Mo Kanjilal, a University of Brighton alumna, is a Diversity, Equity & Inclusion leader, speaker, and entrepreneur, co-founder of Watch This Sp_ce (a multi-award-winning diversity and inclusion company committed to helping organisations build inclusive workforces and drive positive change) and a mentor and trustee advocating for workplace inclusion.

Mo said: “International Women’s Day has always been about driving systemic change to address gender equality. The UN Women’s theme is ‘For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment’, and this event is about speeding up those systemic changes we need to empower all women across sectors. This exciting event brings together a cross section of people to talk about this important work.” 

Sarah Hollinsworth – Chief of Staff, Barclays Corporate Secretariat

With 18 years in Financial Services, Sarah is Chief of Staff for Barclays Corporate Secretariat, the Company Secretary for Barclays Execution Services Limited and currently providing Company Secretarial support to the Invest in Women Taskforce.

Sarah said: “Raising awareness of different professions and understanding how to overcome perceived barriers to entry and progression is essential. There should be no limit to what a woman can accomplish.”

Pippa Moyle – CEO & Founder, City Girl Network

Pippa Moyle is the CEO and founder of City Girl Network, a 150,000-strong community empowering women, and City Girl Creatives, supporting women and non-binary creatives. She was named a Top 100 Female UK Entrepreneur by Small Business Britain and a UN Women UK Delegate in 2024.

Amy Oldham – Founder, Curious Being & Commercial Director, KOKO Studios

Amy Oldham, a University of Brighton alumna, is Commercial Director at KOKO Studios and Founder of Curious Being, providing coaching, training, and consulting to cultivate curiosity and drive business excellence.

The university’s commitment to gender equality

Co-organised by the School of Business and Law, Women in Business Society, Marketing Society, and sponsored by the Help to Grow: Management Course, this event aligns with the UN’s International Women’s Day 2025 theme: For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.

Marking the second instalment of the university’s School of Business and Law’s Women in Leadership event series, this panel reinforces the University’s dedication to supporting local businesses, advancing women in leadership, and driving meaningful change in society.

The University of Brighton is committed to fostering innovation, diversity, and leadership in business and education. Through initiatives like this, it aims to empower future leaders and drive meaningful change in society.