Inspirational women leaders event

For International Women’s day 2020, the Dorchester Collection Academy hosts an intimate meet-up.

Whilst events promoting female companionship might seem common (notice the deliberate exclusion of the word ‘networking’), it’s hard to find ones that are meaningful and interesting. Just earlier today the Dorchester Collection Academy put together a truly inspirational event where women from different careers and backgrounds shared their experiences. The room was buzzing with energy and uplifting vibes from kind people who were genuinely keen to talk to each other. No gun to the head situation.

If you don’t yet know, the Dorchester Collection Academy offers bespoke training and learning programmes for other luxury businesses and aspirational brands. The entrance is sublime and polished. Upon arrival I was so taken aback at the kindness and hospitality of the team. Sure people can be polite in many places but the DCA’s welcome felt different. It felt distinctive. And the seemingly over politeness felt authentic and genuine. I was so happy I signed up to come; what a difference a welcome makes. Every industry needs to learn customer experience from luxury hospitality for sure.

The morning consisted of a series of presentations and a panel. From personal stories, to career aspirations to all the grit and guts it took for these women to make their mark, here are some of the wonderful takeaways:

It is your duty in life to help people progress, even if it means they leapfrog ahead of you.

Helen smith, CCEO, Dorchester Collection Dorchester Collection

The importance of working where your values align with the values of the leadership.

Becki Heath, Global Guest Intelligence Manager, Dorchester Collection 

Change what you're looking for from your environment to allow in other interests.

Amy Hogarth, Salesforce consultant, Art of Cloud

You succeed in having confidence in your opinion because creativity comes from you.

Irene Meikle, Associate Director of Education UK, Kao Salon Division

Foster a culture of creativity & innovation whilst keeping an eye on the business objectives.

Zoe Jenkins, General manager, Coworth park

And as a single mother running her own business and juggling multiple priorities, my favourite, positive twist of the catch phrase, ‘the struggle is real’ to... "the juggle is real"

Lysbeth Fox, CEO, Fox Communications

Images courtesy of Dorchester Collection.