Tomorrow’s Women Conference at Burgess Hill Girls

On Thursday, 6th March, Sixth Formers at Burgess Hill Girls hosted their second Tomorrow’s Women conference.

The Tomorrow’s Women conference is unique in that it is created and organised by the students at Burgess Hill Girls. They are involved in planning every aspect of the conference, from deciding on the format, to selecting speakers and how to market the event.

This year’s conference celebrated outstanding and enterprising work by women from a range of backgrounds and industries.

Jo Shiner, Deputy Chief Constable of Sussex Police, gave a powerful message on overcoming barriers due to sex discrimination, and the importance of being assertive whilst also remaining yourself, authentic and proud.

Clare Griffiths, Business Development Manager and founder of the Thrive Effect, encouraged budding entrepreneurs to step out of their comfort zone and take up opportunities when they arrive.

Naomi Muston, Eco System Manager at Barclays Eagle Labs in Brighton, fascinated the audience with the story of her own progression from the dramatic arts into business. She also emphasised the importance of mentoring and building connections in the workplace.

Danielle Brown MBE, double Paralympic Archery Gold medallist, inspired everyone with her account of overcoming disability to achieve the ultimate success on the international stage.

Finally, Mims Davies, MP for Mid Sussex, spoke passionately and honestly about her pathway into politics. Her account of how her wish to improve a local park started her on the pathway to Parliament was a great example of how small beginnings can lead to outstanding things.

A consistent theme raised at this year’s conference was the experience of `imposter syndrome’ and how to combat it, advice summarised by the students themselves in the following words:

“Sometimes you need to meet the world with a confidence you do not yet feel, and both the world and you will respond and respect it.”

Visit the Burgess Hill Girls blog for a full review of Tomorrow’s Women 2020.