BoardAble autumn programme

The autumn BoardAble programme began with an intense first session, to which the cohort rose to the challenge and achieved good results. 

It was a very full afternoon and both participants and observers worked hard to deliver the required outcomes. 

Congratulations to the autumn cohort and sincere thanks to our observers.

After all the effort expended it was great to relax together and with other Pink Shoe Ambassadors and BoardAble alumnae, to enjoy an informal Aperitivo evening.

Scale-Up Institute Ambassadors Reception

Helene Martin Gee joined the Scale-Up Institute at Bird & Bird for the annual Ambassadors' reception.  

Sherry Coutu and Irene Graham presented a fascinating preview of the annual review which will be launched in mid-November.

UK Launch of SheEO at Coutts

Julie Baker hosted the inspiring UK launch of SheEO a totally new way of investing in women-owned businesses. 

The overarching aim is to create a global community of women working on the world’s ‘to do’ list.


SheEO does this by establishing a pool of 500 women ‘activators’ that each contribute £850 (or £71 per month) to create a fund that invests in women-owned businesses at 0% interest over 5 years. 

This is intended to create a community of 'radically generous women' to lead to a perpetual fund that goes on to invest in women over generations. The initiative launched in Canada in 2015 and has since loaned out $4m in 53 different ventures – each of which is aligned with at least two of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

SheEO clearly works, as the loan repayment rate is 100%! A range of exciting businesses have already been backed and the UK is on track to launch a fund by spring 2020. You can find out more and join the SheEO community here: https://community.sheeo.world/

State Opening of Parliament

At the customary Pink Shoe event to mark the occasion of the Queen's Speech, hats were definitely the order of the day!

We were captivated by the wonderful procession and enjoyed smoked salmon and champagne as we watched the carriages go by.

After listening to Her Majesty and watching the Royal procession return, we ate a marvellous lunch with superb food and wines and great conversation.

Championing Women's Voices

Hosted at Lords by NatWest, Pink Shoe ambassadors joined women business owners and the world-Cup winning England Women's Cricket team for a conference with top speakers celebrating all aspects of women's leadership. 

First we had a stimulating panel debate chaired by the wonderful June Sarpong MBE, looking at elements of success, overcoming fear of failure and how to stay motivated. Then Ebony Rainford-Brent led another great session on 'how to connect with your tribe'.

Following the morning sessions we were able to visit stands showcasing women-owned businesses including ethical clothing made from sustainable cotton. 

After a buffet lunch and lots of networking we took part in group interactive activities led by Lynne Parker and her fabulous 'Funny Women' team.