Women in business will be celebrated at a lunch this week, held by a leading Cumbrian firm.
H&H Group is holding the event to mark International Women’s Day on Friday.
Chaired by H&H Group personnel manager and company secretary Margaret Irving, the keynote speakers are Amy Bateman, British Life Photographer of the Year and author of Forty Farms; and Laura Cadman, life coach and leadership development trainer.
The working lunch will recognise the highly significant role women play in the region’s business, and will offer guests a unique opportunity to share thoughts and ideas, and to meet with likeminded women.
Margaret said: “Starting or running a business can be a daunting prospect for many women and this event provides a wonderful platform for discussion where new ideas can be planted, and future plans made.
“International Women’s Day celebrates the role women play within business and industry all over the world, and we are delighted that two of Cumbria’s most inspirational businesswomen have agreed to represent the region for us.
“Amy and Laura are outstanding examples of successful women business leaders, and their experience and insight will be fascinating.”
Amy is a creative photographer who specialises in capturing people, places and artisan products on camera in stunning, high-quality imagery. After winning several major photography competitions as an amateur, Amy had the courage to become a freelance photographer in 2019 and now specialises in the agricultural and commercial sectors.
Most people in the room will know Amy for her enlightening Forty Farms book which has expanded into a touring outdoor exhibition currently hosted on the woodland trail at Low Sizergh Farm near Kendal. Last year was special for Amy as she won several major awards and Forty Farms was awarded the prestigious Lakeland Book of the Year.
Laura is a highly successful business leader in her own right and a leadership, organisational, and personal mastery coach dedicated to transforming businesses by shaping leaders, culture, behaviours, and effectiveness through targeted training and coaching.
Having made Carlisle her home since 2006, Laura’s 14-year career in the North West comprises senior leadership roles including CEO at Cumbria CVS and assistant director of delivery at Eden District Council.
Complementing her professional trajectory, Laura delved into strategic leadership and management studies and attained expertise as a Neuro-Linguistic Programming master practitioner and coach.
Margaret added: “Women play an increasingly important part in the development of business and industry in this part of the world, and our working lunch offers a perfect opportunity to meet inspiring women who are leading the way.”
