Leah Brooks | Medical Student | University of sheffield
Leah is a final year medical student at the University of Sheffield.
Alongside her studies she is the Chief Operating Officer of Future Frontline a not-for-profit aiming to support and inspire current and future healthcare students and professionals. In this role she manages a team of over 30 volunteers, assists in providing free events, webinars and resources for their audience free of charge.
She is also the Lead Student Advisor at UniTasterDaysltd providing insight into medicine on TheUniGuide podcast, including her own journey into medicine and how to choose the right university for you.
Leah was state educated from one of the lowest 10% socio-economic areas in the UK and took part in a widening participation scheme to apply to medical school, and now advocates for widening participation into university.
In 2019 Leah was diagnosed with generalised anxiety disorder and depression and in 2021 had to take a year out of medical school for mental ill health. Since then Leah has created a social media platform (@wellnessmedic) where she has discussed her journey with mental illness, and her life in medical school. She discusses medical school with anxiety and depression and gives a raw insight into her journey and any struggles, whilst encouraging others to always prioritise their mental health. She has since spoken on multiple podcasts on this topic, been interviewed for UCASlive! on being a medical student with anxiety and depression, as well as being interviewed by Yahoo!`s built by girls column and the Chronicle and Echo.
Georgia Cocks | EA to the Co-Founders | Wellity Global
Georgia is a dynamic professional with a rich background in operations and marketing. Opting not to pursue university, she made a proactive decision to dive headfirst into her career, seeking opportunities to gain practical experience and carve a path towards professional success.
Her journey began in the marketing industry, where she exemplified strategic expertise and meticulous project management. Georgia`s passion for organisation seamlessly transitioned her into an account management role, where she adeptly juggled client communication and team coordination, consistently delivering results and exceeding expectations.
Recognising her aptitude for organisational excellence, she self-funded a PA course in London which culminated in her achieving a distinction. Following her achievement, she then transitioned into her dream role at Wellity Global.
Initially starting as a PA supporting the Co-Founders, she quickly became indispensable to the organisation`s daily operations. She seamlessly coordinated schedules, orchestrated complex training arrangements, and liaised with key stakeholders. Her colleagues began to rely on her as the linchpin of the business, often referring to her as ”the glue that holds the business together.”
Georgia went on to spearhead the operations department, manage an entire office relocation, co-ordinate complex training programmes and lead a company rebrand initiative. After an initial promotion to Executive Assistant, Georgia now serves as the Head of Operations, overseeing the seamless execution of all aspects of the business.
With a keen eye for efficiency and a knack for problem-solving, she continues to drive revenue growth, expand global operations, lead marketing efforts and demonstrate exemplary organisational skills.
Jessica Tamman | Senior Manager, Strategic Partnerships | Lloyd`s
Jessica joined Lloyd`s in 2021 and was appointed Senior Manager, Strategic Initiatives & Partnerships in 2023.
She is responsible for driving and delivering Lloyd’s sustainability initiatives, including the coordination and implementation of Lloyd’s sustainability strategy and programme of activities. This includes the Sustainable Markets Initiative Insurance Task Force, ensuring focus areas are aligned with the priorities of Futureset, Lloyd’s broader strategic objectives and cross-collaboration with SMI Task Forces. She is also responsible for engagement with wider global insurance industry initiatives such as the Insurance Development Forum and ClimateWise and Lloyd’s engagement with UN organisations.
Jessica has over 10 years` experience in partnerships, community engagement and communications. This has included holding several roles across charity and public and private sectors, most recently leading the creation of the Lloyd`s of London Foundation.
Hiba Hanif | Data Analyst | PwC
After completing my BSc Honors in Mathematics and Masters in Actuarial Science, I initially started my career in external audit.
Seeking a new direction, I embraced the challenge of technology, data, and analytics, where I gained valuable experience in leveraging data to drive insights and make informed decisions. It was during this time that I discovered my passion for the insurance industry.
Over the past two years, I have actively contributed to the insurance industry, assisting clients in navigating regulatory changes such as IFRS 17 and driving transformation programs. I have played a key role in leading data strategy initiatives and revolutionizing clients` approach to data and analytics, driving transformative outcomes. Additionally, I have been involved in actuarial transformation programs, streamlining operations and improving efficiency through the development of a proof of concept. By bringing my authentic self to work and leveraging strong professional relationships, I have made a tangible difference and effectively helped clients navigate through change.
My own journey of growth and development has instilled in me a strong desire to give back. I have been incredibly fortunate to have mentors who continuously pushed me to become the best version of myself and provided me with an incredible platform to thrive. By sharing my experiences, knowledge, and unwavering belief in the potential of others, I strive to create a better future for the insurance industry. I am dedicated to fostering an environment where everyone can thrive, ultimately creating a ripple effect of growth and success for generations to come.
Caitlin McEniry | Continuous Improvement Consultant | Zurich Insurance
I started working in insurance straight out of university and found myself in a world where I could use my logical brain to help the company make good underwriting decisions whilst building relationships with my customers/brokers.
In my mid-twenties I decided to make a big change, I sold my house & belongings, packed two suitcases and flew myself (and my dog) to England for a new adventure.
I began underwriting for a company that was fairly small and allowed me the capacity to start a family, when I was 7 months pregnant with my second I decided it was time to take charge of my career and make a change.
I got a role at Zurich who were happy to wait my maternity leave and work part time. During the pandemic my husband was put at risk of redundancy so I worked with my line manager to give me full time hours but be flexible.
Eventually I wanted a new challenge and found myself drawn to operations and the Continuous Improvement team where they drive real changes and benefits for employees.
Now nearly 2 years on I have grown not only in my career but my confidence and skills surrounded by such a supportive team. The encouragement from my colleagues has given me the belief that I can do whatever I set my mind to and they give me tools that are needed in this industry.
Julie Hammond | Portfolio GP | Advanced Medical Aesthetics Practitioner | NHS | Dr Hammond Aesthetics
Dr Hammond is an NHS GP specialising in women's health, family planning, mental health and aesthetic medicine.
She is based in Kent and is a passionate advocate for health equity. Dr Hammond has worked to raise awareness to support the health of the Afro-Caribbean community and reduce the gap in health inequalities experienced by this community as a Steering Group Member for the London Inspire Programme. To further her mission to narrow healthcare inequalities and ensure equitable healthcare, Dr Hammond is a Health Governor for the Kent Community NHS Foundation Trust, NHS Clinical Entrepreneur, Core 20 Ambassador for NHS England, BMA EDI Advisory Group Member, North Kent Maternity and Neonatal Voices Partnership member, member of the Wellbeing of Women’s Health Collective and the Kent and Medway LMNS Equity and Equality Oversight Group, Trustee of West Kent Mind and co-chair of diversity, equity and inclusion subgroup, Director of Events of Black Female Doctors UK and a UN Women UK delegate.
Dr Hammond is currently working with the Kent and Medway ICB to improve access to and reduce inequalities in maternity care for women and birthing people from marginalised communities.
She has also collaborated with NHS England and several grassroots organisations as part of public health promotion campaigns, including Black Women Rising, CoppaFeel!, The Motherhood Group, The Essential Baby Company, Dope Black Dads and MumsPride. In 2023, she was selected as a GEMS Recipient recognising emerging health and social care leaders from minoritised backgrounds who are making a difference in the sector.
Dr Sania Shahbaz Hasnain | Technical Product Manager | Salaso
I am a physician by background with an MD in Hospital Administration with 7 years of experience in health tech.
Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working at the intersection of healthcare and technology, witnessing the transformative power of digital solutions in improving patient outcomes and healthcare delivery.
My experience has equipped me with a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities in the digital health landscape.
My professional journey in the healthcare field has been marked by a steadfast commitment to delivering exceptional patient care and driving transformative change through innovation. My experiences have honed my ability to lead and collaborate effectively in demanding healthcare environments while upholding the core values of healthcare.
I bring a wealth of experience at senior clinical leadership levels in medical management, with a strong emphasis on retaining a meaningful clinical and research profile. I have constantly kept abreast with the latest development in healthcare research and have published 8 articles in my area of expertise and will continue to upskill with new information and knowledge to contribute towards patient care.
I regularly mentor product managers to help them hone their skills and excel in their field. I do this in an attempt to give back to the community and help individuals as I believe we never grow in isolation and it takes a community to exalt a person. By sharing my experience and insights, I aim to foster a collaborative environment where we all grow together.
Jennifer Countess von Walderdorff | Sustainable Fashion Consultant | Look at the Labels
Jennifer is a recognized fashion merchandising and retail expert, with a notable achievement as the author of the modern shopping guide ”Look @ the Labels.” Raised in New Cross Gate, southeast London, her love for fashion and numbers bloomed early, influenced by her Nigerian heritage passed down from her parents.
In 2011, Jennifer ventured into entrepreneurship, establishing Cheeky Poppins Shoe Clips. This inventive concept focused on enhancing footwear with accessories instead of purchasing new items, which garnered awards and recognition. An early-stage eco-conscious brand.
She has since been appointed ambassador for non-profits DKS and Sustainable Fashion Week in 2023. She is a member of UN Women UK and has been nominated for the Speaker Award by the Women`s Business Awards 2024. Today, she stands proud as a sustainable fashion freelance consultant, author, and speaker. She works with fashion brands, building strategies towards carbon zero, and integrating sustainable practices in their businesses. She has also built the Look at the Labels platform to assist and support people on their sustainable fashion journey. She also creates content and continues to grow her 5k audience via social media to educate people on the principles she shares in her book “Look @ the Labels”, how to get sharp, style right, and buy smart for a more sustainable future of fashion for all.
Caroline Marshall | Founder | Upsource
Caroline Marshall is the founder of a multi award winning Virtual Assistant Agency, Upsource.
A growing team of VAs who provide Business, Executive and Virtual Assistance. Including Outsourced PA / EA, operations, financial admin, HR and content services to Entrepreneurs, HNWs, Startups, Scale ups and SME’s.
Having a background in Personal Assistance, Business Support and Events, Caroline transitioned to the Virtual Assistant industry in 2016, firstly as an employed VA, and then ultimately launched her own agency in July 2020.
Upsource has seen significant growth since 2020 and Caroline and her tips have been featured in the Metro, Daily Mail, Grazia, Stylist, Waitrose Magazine and The Guardian.
Her personal experience of motherhood, the workplace, redundancy, the pandemic, furlough and finding freedom with starting her own business has led her on the path of creating a podcast ‘Bump to Business owner’ to hare the stories of other Founders who are also Mothers and ‘how on earth we do it’.
Sarah Watson | Senior Manager, Insurance Risk and Regulation | PwC
After graduating from the University of Cambridge with a Bachelor`s degree in Natural Sciences, I worked for a decade at Goldman Sachs doing Equity Research.
However, after having two children, I was no longer able to continue a career in investment banking whilst being the sort of mother I wanted to be. At that point, I pivoted to Insurance, hoping it would set me up to build a long and sustainable career, even though it might mean an initial step backward in seniority. I started worked at the Bank of England, where I supervised insurance firms for four years, and then more recently at PwC.
In my two years at PwC, I have worked with insurance firms across a wide variety of projects to help them successfully manage significant regulatory challenges. My agility over this time means that I have broadened my areas of expertise from initially prudential and life insurance, to now also conduct regulation, and working across the general insurance, Lloyd’s and London Market sectors. Throughout it all, I have helped insurers navigate the regulatory impact of change driven by macro, technological and operational factors.
I grew up immersed in two cultures, with a Chinese mother and an English father. This, combined with the breadth of my career experiences, means I recognise the importance of understanding and celebrating people’s different perspectives and creating an inclusive environment. I am passionate about promoting diversity, equity and inclusion, and supporting other women in their career.