Globe BID are proud to celebrate the incredible women whose talent, leadership and innovation help shape our vibrant business community every day. This International Women’s Day, we spoke with a selection of inspirational professionals from across the Business Park, asking them to reflect on their journeys, inspiration and the advice they would give to the next generation of women in business.
Jasmine Kirby, Workplace Manager at Softcat
What inspires you most as a woman in your career?
What inspires me most is seeing the impact of quiet consistency. Showing up, doing good work, and growing over time. I’m motivated by progress rather than perfection, and by the knowledge that every step forward helps normalise women being confident, capable, and influential in the workplace. I’m also inspired by other women who lead with integrity, support those around them, and aren’t afraid to be themselves while doing it.
What advice would you give to young women starting out in their careers today?
Don’t underestimate your value, even when you’re still learning. Speak up sooner than feels comfortable, ask for opportunities, and don’t wait to be “ready” before putting yourself forward. Seek out people who support your growth, trust your instincts, and remember that confidence often comes after taking the leap, not before.
Lynn Dillon, HR Director at Whistl
What inspires you most as a woman in your career?
What inspires me most as a woman in my career is the ability to make a meaningful impact and create positive change within the organisation. Seeing the growth and development of my team members, especially the women, and knowing that I have played a part in their success is incredibly rewarding. I encourage open communication, collaboration, and provide support to help them navigate their career paths. I play my part by trying to create a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential and advocate for gender equality in an environment where everybody is treated ‘fairly’.
How do you use your role to inspire or support other women in your team or organisation?
I endeavour to ‘lead by example’ and demonstrate that you must keep working hard, collaborate with those around you, stay authentic and true to yourself throughout, even when you are making difficult and unpopular decisions.
What advice would you give to young women starting out in their careers today?
Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and don’t be afraid to seek guidance from mentors and peers. Challenge the status-quo and look to innovate and identify more efficient ways to improve what you are currently doing. Build a strong network of supportive colleagues and believe in yourself……..Never stop learning !
What are your hopes for the next generation of women in your industry?
That they believe they can do anything, aim high & excel in their careers and take the industry forward by helping to create an environment of inclusiveness, where individuals are evaluated based on their skills and merits, rather than gender. The consequence of this means we have a more balanced and insightful decision-making process that supports all, moves us forward in the future and changes the perception of the industry.