International Women’s Day 2024 reminds us that resilience, adaptability, and leadership are key qualities that help women succeed in business. Here we chat to some of the incredible women working across Brackmills Industrial Estate and ask the question ‘What advice would you give your younger self?’
Holly Philip, Operations Manager, Delivery – Northampton, John Lewis & Partners
“Have confidence and fake it (the confidence!) til you make it! I think back to opportunities I missed due to imposter syndrome. I'd tell myself to know my worth, be brave, and NEVER offer to take the notes in a meeting! You deserve a seat at the table—own it.”
Rebekah Broady, Marketing Executive, Rushlift
“Talk to everyone, whether it’s at a formal networking event or just a casual chat. You never know who you’ll meet or how that connection might benefit you in the future. Sometimes, the smallest conversations open the biggest doors.”
Marzena Spiewak, Branch Manager, Ziegler UK Limited
“Be bolder and braver - you got it and you can do it - the sky's the limit. Don't be afraid to take risks. If something excites you and scares you at the same time, that’s a sign to go for it.”
Bianca Cruceru, Business Development Manager UK, Active Ants
“Never be afraid to take up space and use your voice. Confidence isn’t something you wait to have—it’s something you build through experience. Believe in your worth and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself. No one else will do it for you.”
Gemma Osborne, Safety, Health and Environmental Technician, igus UK
“Don’t be afraid to ask questions and take every opportunity given to you to learn more. Curiosity is your greatest asset, and the more you learn, the more valuable you become.”
Sara Homer, CEO, Brackmills BID
“Follow your dreams. I should have gone into the Army or the Police Tactical Unit. I will always regret it. Never let fear of the unknown stop you from doing something you truly want.”
International Women's Day (IWD) is marked on 8th March each year. It was first recognised by the United Nations in 1977, though it has earlier roots in the labour movements of the early 20th century. According to data from the World Economic Forum, it will take until the year 2158 to reach full gender parity. This is roughly five generations from now. The theme for this year’s #IWD2025 is #AccelerateAction, with calls for ‘increased momentum and urgency to address the systemic barriers and biases that women face, both in personal and professional spheres’. Find out more here: https://www.internationalwomensday.com/Theme