Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: Insights from the Women-Led High Growth Enterprise Taskforce Report
As the Founder of The Rising Network, I stand at the forefront of this transformative movement, leading the charge alongside industry leaders to dismantle barriers and unlock the full potential of women in various professional domains, writes Lily Cheng.
Key Findings
Underrepresentation: The report starkly highlights the underrepresentation of women in high-growth sectors, revealing that only one in three entrepreneurs in the UK is female. Despite the substantial contributions made by women in various professional domains, this gender disparity persists, signalling an urgent need for systemic change.
Barriers to Growth: Women encounter a myriad of barriers on their path to professional growth, including limited access to leadership roles, mentorship, and supportive networks. These challenges, as illuminated by the report, underscore the importance of creating an ecosystem that fosters equal opportunities for all professionals and entrepreneurs.
Importance of Networks: Building strong networks is paramount for professional success, yet many women face obstacles in accessing supportive networks. At the Rising Festival 2024 set to take place on 21 September in Cambridge, we recognise the power of mentorship and networking in driving change. Through our mentorship and networking sessions, we aim to provide women with the resources and connections they need to thrive in the workplace and as entrepreneurs.
Access to Opportunities: Access to opportunities for career advancement remains a significant challenge for women in the workplace and female entrepreneurs. The report's emphasis on diversifying opportunities and addressing biases in professional environments aligns with our mission at The Rising Network. Through advocacy and collaboration with organisations, we strive to create more equitable opportunities for women across all professional domains.
Industry Leaders Driving Change: As we delve into the insights assembled from the Women-Led High Growth Enterprise Taskforce Report, the significance of initiatives like the Rising Festival 2024 comes into focus. This transformative event unites industry leaders, professionals, and entrepreneurs, fostering meaningful dialogue and mapping a course towards a more inclusive professional landscape.
Led by Prof. Dame Carol Black DBE, the Rising Festival Chair, the event hosts a provocative panel discussion titled "Inspiring Inclusion: Women’s Work, Tomorrow's World." This session delves into the future of the workplace, drawing insights from panellists to illuminate transformative strategies. Addressing gender dynamics head-on, the panel confronts persistent barriers hindering women's progress. From systemic biases to entrenched workplace cultures, the discussion aims to dissect root causes of inequality and advocate for bold, transformative change.
Speakers include Alison Cork MBE, an esteemed author and serial entrepreneur of Make It Your Business and National Women's Enterprise Week, who brings over 35 years of experience and a trailblazing spirit to the panel.
Jas Rai, COO of the British Library, offers invaluable insights from her background as an HR expert, while Dorothy Byrne, former Editor at Large at Channel 4 and current President of Murray Edwards, brings her outspoken advocacy and unwavering passion for driving change.
At the Rising Festival 2024, we are committed to empowering women professionals and entrepreneurs through actionable strategies and resources. With panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities led by esteemed leaders, we aim to inspire and equip women with the tools they need to succeed in the workplace and as entrepreneurs.
Wellbeing Takes Centre Stage
As the Founder of The Rising Network, I believe that wellbeing takes centre stage in our professional and entrepreneurial journey. As leaders, professionals, and entrepreneurs, we must bring our full authentic selves to the table, and wellbeing is the backbone of this. Through initiatives focused on not only leadership and personal development, but also wellbeing and self-care, we aim to support women in maintaining balance and resilience as they navigate the demands of the workplace and entrepreneurship.
Conclusion
As a British-born Chinese female founder, I've faced adversity, fuelling my commitment to inclusivity. Through The Rising Network and our Rising Festival, we're dismantling barriers. Supported by esteemed partners like the Wellcome Sanger Institute, St. Mary's School, and Business Weekly, and sponsors such as the British Antarctic Survey, Mills & Reeves, and Kiss Communications, our mission gains momentum.
Our champions of change are dedicated to propelling our mission forward. Read more at https://www.therisingnetwork.com/community-champions
Let's innovate for a world where gender equality thrives. Join us at the Rising Festival 2024 and register to attend.
*Source - Women-led high-growth enterprise taskforce report (Published 28 February 2024)
ABOUT LILY
Lily Cheng is an entrepreneur, community builder, and change catalyst, with a background in marketing and a profound dedication to mental health and wellness. Rooted in a family heritage steeped in traditional Chinese medicine, Lily's holistic approach to life, health, and wellbeing is deeply ingrained in her ethos.
As the Founder and CEO of the Rising Network, Lily is on a mission to create a more inclusive world. She is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusivity, fostering dynamic communities that prioritise the well-being of individuals. Under her leadership, the Rising Network has become a beacon of empowerment and inspiration, offering vibrant events and initiatives designed to ignite positive change, including the Rising Festival, a festival for inspiration and growth.
Lily is renowned as a passionate mentor, dedicated to shaping future leaders and nurturing emerging talents. Leveraging her expertise and experience, she strives to make a meaningful impact as an inclusive community builder, empowering individuals to reach their full potential and being a catalyst of change making world inclusive for all.
Throughout her career, Lily has delivered exceptional results in brand creation, execution, and management, demonstrating a proven track record in driving positive change. For media enquiries or further information, contact Lily Cheng, Founder & CEO of the Rising Network, at lily@therisingnetwork.com.
