Four of our most notable female alumnae returned to campus on Monday for a fascinating event focusing on the role of women in leadership, including a panel discussion about their path to success and the challenges women face in the workplace, to inspire women entering the workplace now.

Ask! Ask for help, an opportunity, a meeting or a recommendation.

Ayesha Hazarika, MBE, Comedian and Political Commentator

The fascinating panel consisted of comedian and political commentator, Ayesha Hazarika MBE; Court of Appeal-Lady Justice of Appeal, The Rt Hon. Lady Justice Eleanor King DBE; journalist and broadcaster, Dame Jenni Murray DBE; Artistic Director of the Kiln Theatre, Indhu Rubasingham MBE, Professor Susan Lea, Vice-Chancellor of the University and our Chancellor, The Rt Hon. the Baroness Virginia Bottomley of Nettlestone.

Sharing her advice at the event, inspirational Hull graduate Ayesha said: “You don’t have to have a fixed plan. You will find your way. Ask! Ask for help, an opportunity, a meeting or a recommendation.”

Speaking of her experiences in the workplace, Indu said: “An important element is your friends and your tribe. No one does it on their own. It’s scary! It’s also not just about how good you are. It’s about how tenacious and hardworking you are and importantly, it’s okay to be yourself and be the best version of yourself!”

Also at the event, six newly refurbished lecture theatres in the University’s Larkin building were officially opened. The lecture theatres have been renamed in honour of the four attendees, as well as Hull alumnae Rosie Millard OBE, Chair of BBC Children in Need; and Marianne Elliott OBE, Artistic Director of Elliott & Harper Productions.

University of Hull Women’s Network launched

The Women in Leadership event also saw the launch of the University of Hull Women’s Network, bringing together staff, students, alumni and friends of the University, to advance women in leadership, drive female empowerment and celebrate the achievements of esteemed female leaders.

As well as hosting an annual networking event to coincide with International Women’s Day, the network will also provide a platform for members to connect and share their experiences and insights with each other. Join the University of Hull Women’s Network today, which aims to support the University’s equality, diversity and inclusion strategy, by joining the Facebook group or by registering on our alumni platform Hull Alumni Connects.