On the eve of International Women’s Day, MIPIM Ladies teamed up with Westminster Business Council’s Women of Westminster in a celebration of women in business at the Lord Mayor of Westminster’s Parlour in the heart of London.
The evening was opened by Elizabeth Crowther-Hunt, CEO of Westminster Business Council, Elizabeth Crowther Hunt. Elizabeth spoke about the alliance between our two groups and how it was a privilege to witness so much support for equality and diversity in gender empowerment in the Capital. Elizabeth then introduced the Lord Mayor of Westminster, Councillor Lindsey Hall, who addressed the 90-strong female crowd with a story of her own career journey and the challenges she has faced, and the many successes and achievements she has earned.
The Lord Mayor also commented that while International Women’s Day has been marked since 1911, it is only now that women are being recognised in all spheres in every profession. The Lord Mayor noted that while there is still a long way to go (women are still typically paid 23% less than men globally), there are many positives to outweigh the negatives, and as women we should support each other, expressing praise and generosity. She also spoke of the importance of mentoring and coaching younger generations of women.
Following the Lord Mayor was Christine Baldwin, Head of Property Portfolio London for Landsec. Christine gave a heartfelt speech on her own career, starting as a young professional and a working mother, though to her achievements in the property and development sector.
Christine spoke of the struggles she has faced, and how she used this to make her stronger. A MIPIM veteran herself, Christine shared some rather interesting stories about winning new business.
To close the presentations, Fiona Clark, Practice Director at David Miller Architects and a co-founder of MIPIM Ladies, echoed the comments of Lindsey and Christine by saying how important it is to be yourself and to take the opportunities that come your way.
It really was a marvellous evening of celebration of women in all industries, and the perfect platform for engagement and sharing.
Now on to MIPIM: see you all in Cannes!
