Empowering Women to Lead - Accelerating Action

WHAT TO EXPECT

Moderated by Mary Hockaday, British journalist and former leader at BBC News and BBC World Service, this panel brings together influential voices shaping the future of STEM and business.

Join an engaging discussion on empowering women to take on leadership roles, break down barriers, and drive meaningful change in traditionally male-dominated fields.

Panelists will share their personal journeys and insights, tackling key questions such as:

How can we foster more inclusive environments in STEM and business?
What steps can women take to accelerate their career growth and lead with impact?
How can organisations and allies support women in their leadership journeys?

This session is a call to action, equipping attendees with the tools, inspiration, and confidence to take bold steps toward leadership. Be part of the conversation as we address systemic challenges and celebrate the women driving innovation and change.

Meet Our

SPEAKERS

Moderator

Mary Hockaday

Master of Trinity Hall | British Journalist

Mary Hockaday is Master of Trinity Hall, Cambridge and a Trustee of the British Library. She was formerly Director of BBC World Service and Controller BBC World Service English until 2021, growing the weekly audience to WSE to nearly 100 million. From 2009-2014 she was Head of the BBC Newsroom, overseeing the BBC’s core news services on radio, television and online for domestic and global audiences  and leading innovation in digital and visual journalism. Mary was Editor of BBC World Service News and Current Affairs from 2001 to 2006.

Learn more about Mary HERE.

Ann Fisher

Serial Entrepreneur

Ann has been part of the Cambridge and UK-wide tech ecosystem for nearly 30 years and her expertise spans technology sector growth, investor relations, operational finance and community integration. Ann has founded two businesses to successful exit. A visionary entrepreneur, she is passionate about high-growth start-ups and connecting early-stage companies, professional advisors and investors, reinforcing the UK’s innovation landscape.

Learn more about Ann HERE.

Chantal Taylor

Group Head of HR,

TTP PLC

British born with roots in India, Chantal Taylor has enjoyed an international career, living and working in the US, India, Switzerland, and the UK. Starting her career in 2000 at Procter & Gamble, she held various roles of increasing responsibility, moving between HR business partnership, including experience in major global acquisitions and driving change, and specialist roles in Sales, Learning & Development, Labour Relations, and Reward.

Learn more about Chantal HERE.

Anne Dobrée

Investor Director,

Parkwalk Advisors

Anne joined Parkwalk in 2024 and has been supporting University spin-outs and start-ups since 2001, working in various technology commercialisation roles at Imperial College and the University of Cambridge. Anne formerly led the growth of the University of Cambridge’s Seed Funds team for 15 years, including establishing the first University EIS fund with Parkwalk and spinning out Cambridge Innovation Capital.

Learn more about Anne HERE.

Quick Links

The Rising Festival 2025 IWD All Speakers

"Grateful for the Rising Festival's safe space. I connected deeply, felt understood, and left with genuine connections. Together, we're unstoppable." - Previous Attendee

"I've been to many conferences, but the Rising Festival stands out for its genuine focus on personal growth and well-being. From the inspiring keynotes to the relaxing wellness activities, every aspect was carefully curated to uplift and energise. I left feeling refreshed and ready to conquer my goals!" - Previous Attendee

"Dame Mary Archer said "Stand your ground," I think that's a really important message to be able to understand and to know your worth and own it. Well said Mary."

DON'T MISS A THING!

Receive the latest updates and speaker announcements.