Kimai Journal
13 March 2023Embracing Equity for International Women’s Day
March is not only home to International Women’s Day on the 8th but also marks Women’s History month. Delve into the key highlights of the panel talk we hosted with our friends over at Mortimer House on this year's theme of Embracing Equity.
Written by Abby Forbes
Shirin Kouros Dewerpe - Founder of Nudi Pasta
After co-founding Good Life Eatery and over 12 years experience in food and hospitality, in September 2022 she launched NUDI, a low carb Pasta delivery brand.
Gabriela Hersham -Founder of Huckletree
Gabriela Hersham founded the coworking business Huckletree in 2014. Huckletree is now one of the UK’s most exciting coworking brands, bringing together the UK and Ireland’s most innovative startups, entrepreneurs and businesses.
Serena Hood - Co-founder and CEO of Collagerie
Serena Hood is the Co-founder and CEO of the revolutionary digital shopping platform Collagerie. Good Web Guide winners of website of the year 2021, Collagerie hones decades of style know-how into a unique shopping experience, offering inspirational ideas, trusted advice and beautiful buys to suit every budget.
Irene Forte- Founder of Irene Forte Skincare
Irene Forte is the founder, leader and driving force behind Irene Forte Skincare. Irene Forte Skincare has already achieved B-Corp status and has been awarded the Butterfly Mark by Positive Luxury for sustainable excellence. The products are sold in over 85 doors globally.
This year’s theme of embracing equity is about making sure we are doing what we can to help and uplift marginalised groups that experience barriers in life in the attempt of ultimately achieving equality. Giving those who may not have access a seat at the table or at least an opportunity to be in the room. In the panel we discussed many topics including what it is like to be a female founder whilst trying to raise investment, overcoming barriers and how to build confidence. Interestingly, female founded businesses are heavily underfunded despite outperforming those funded by men. Is it because men simply have the ability to bullshit more when in the room or are women scrutinised more and less likely to get a meeting to show off their business acumen?
Key highlights:
Be kind but not nice - being nice can sometimes come across as been easy to win over
Be passionate about what you’re doing because it’s not easy
Be prepared for the constant mico-struggles rather than one big hurdle
Do what you can to offer someone the opportunity
Be ready and empowered to prove people wrong
The first official International Women’s Day was celebrated in 1911 and since then has morphed into a week into a month's celebration for the global celebration of the economic, political and social achievements of women.
Best Advice?
“Just do it. Don’t think too much about the long term issues or you'll never do it" - Serena Hood
“We have to get more comfortable about being ambitious and just going for it” - Gabriela Hersham
We are delighted to share with you that the team at Mortimer House will be extending a special rate for House Membership to the attendees of the Kimai x IWD panel talk. House membership is ideal for those seeking an inspiring environment in which to connect and create in the evenings and at weekends.
Enjoy access to all areas of the House, from Rooftop bar to downstairs gym and experience a full calendar of events like the one you just attended.
Apply Here, and reference the Kimai event to claim this benefit.
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