Regional law firm Gardner Leader welcomed more than 130 business leaders and professionals to an event in Oxford to celebrate International Women’s Day while raising awareness for Homeless Oxfordshire.
The annual gathering took place on 05 March at Somerville College, University of Oxford and brought together representatives from a wide range of sectors, including manufacturing, business and education. The event was sponsored for the third consecutive year by accountancy firm Gravita.
Organisers said the event highlighted the importance of community leadership and education while celebrating the achievements and contributions of women across different industries.
This year’s event was held under the theme “Give to Gain”, which also supported the charity Homeless Oxfordshire. Attendees were encouraged to bring donations for the charity’s “Her Way Home” appeal, a campaign that helps women experiencing homelessness rebuild their lives.
Guests heard from several speakers who shared personal insights and professional experiences from their careers.
The speakers included Michelle Niziol, entrepreneur and Women in Business advocate; Marina Gardiner Legge; and Sarah Jaycock, Co-founder and Executive Director of High Spec Composites, a manufacturer of specialist carbon fibre components used in sectors such as aerospace, the military and motorsports.
Leading the event, Cate Beavis, Senior Associate in the Residential Property team at Gardner Leader, said:
“International Women’s Day is an excellent opportunity to showcase the remarkable contributions women make to every industry and profession. Our speakers shared powerful personal experiences across a variety of careers, each illustrating determination and drive. We’re proud to have brought together such an inspiring group of women.”
Michelle Niziol, Founder of the IMS Property Group, reflected on her personal journey and the importance of supporting women in business. She said:
“I’ve always believed that financial independence, confidence and freedom are built on clear strategy, resilience and relentless belief. My journey wasn’t easy, but it fuelled the ambition that carried me from buying my first home as a teenager to building multiple successful businesses.
“International Women’s Day celebrates what’s possible when women back themselves – and when we share knowledge and support, we all move forward together.”
Representatives from Homeless Oxfordshire also spoke about the impact of the Her Way Home campaign, which recently helped fund the purchase and refurbishment of an eight-bedroom women-only house offering safe accommodation and communal spaces for residents.
Liza Clothier, Head of Fundraising & Communications at Homeless Oxfordshire, said:
“We are delighted to be involved in this Gardner Leader event and to have the chance to raise awareness of Her Way Home, our campaign to bring housing, healing and hope to women experiencing homelessness in Oxfordshire.”
Jennifer Sewell, Partner at Gravita, added:
“We believe that providing mentorship and meaningful opportunities helps create a path to shared success, and we are proud to support an event that inspires others, promotes equality and builds a future where everyone can thrive.”
Derek Rodgers, Managing Partner at Gardner Leader, said:
“As a leading law firm in Oxford and across the south of England, we’re proud to be an active part of our communities, supporting initiatives that promote equality and empower future generations of women to succeed. Today has reinforced this belief.
“It was an absolute pleasure to hear from such incredible speakers, who are true role models for each and every one of us to look up to.”
Gardner Leader has served communities across the south of England for more than 130 years and operates offices in Newbury, Thatcham, Maidenhead, London, Oxford, Windsor and Swindon.
