International Women's Day 2025 #AccelerateAction

1. How can we all #AccelerateAction this International Women’s Day?

IWD lists a number of things we can all do. Offering guidance and support to women in your field to help them advance personally and professionally, is something I advocate and try to do whenever I can, particularly in my role here at PayStream. What you do doesn't have to be bold and grand, by just making some time for someone can make a big difference to them.   

2. Throughout your career, which woman has been your mentor or role model, and how has their guidance shaped your professional development?

There are several for me. When I was looking to get back into the workplace as a single mum with 3 young kids, a female Director offered me a chance to slot into an entry level position in her small company. It was the best opportunity I ever had, Why? Because she gave me a chance, I took it and never looked back. She was younger than me and I aspired to be like her. We are still good friends today. I also have some recent role models including - Brene Brown an American academic who studies human connection. Her 2010 Ted Talk on “The Power of Vulnerability” is one of the most viewed talks in the world. Also, Mel Robbins, podcaster, for her no nonsense and direct approach to living our best life.

3. Looking back on your career, what’s the most valuable piece of advice you’ve received or lesson you’ve learned?

Pick your battles – if you object or disagree with everything, you will fail to be heard when stuff really matters.

4. How have you seen the workplace culture evolve during your time at work?

There have been big changes since I first started working in my 20’s, believe me when I say things are a lot better, and workplace cultures are more empowering now. There is more equality for all, and less tolerance of  unacceptable behaviour. There is also more openness, a willingness to listen and an understanding we are all just trying to do our best.  

5. What message would you like to share with young women just starting their careers?

Hold fast,  persevere, speak up, and  surround yourself with people who will support you. Take responsibility for creating the career you deserve; blame is not a strategy for success.

1. How can we all #AccelerateAction this International Women’s Day?

I believe that each of us stepping up as mentors, whether formally or informally, would help accelerate action in creating pathways for women to succeed, grow and lead without limitations. For women, mentoring can be especially impactful. Many women face unique barriers in the workplace, such as gender bias or limited access to leadership roles. A mentor can help women navigate these obstacles, boost their professional growth, and expand their network. By offering advice, encouragement, and support, we’re helping women break through barriers and step into leadership roles, which is vital for creating more equitable environments and I believe mentors can help fast-track this and contribute to the larger goal of gender equality.

2. Throughout your career, which woman has been your mentor or role model, and how has their guidance shaped your professional development?

My mom is my Iron Lady—fearless, driven, and unstoppable. She’s not just a planner; she’s a powerhouse, executing charity and social events for up to 1,500 people at a time across Africa, Europe, and India. No matter where she goes, she stands for justice and leads with strength. She leaves a mark—not just to be remembered, but to set herself apart. That’s what truly matters. Inspired by her, I strive to do the same in every organisation I work with, making an impact wherever I go.

3. Looking back on your career, what’s the most valuable piece of advice you’ve received or lesson you’ve learned?

My career journey has been anything but conventional, and that’s exactly what has made it empowering. I’ve worked in various fields—from women’s empowerment blogging and educational counselling to compliance and tax. Each role has taught me something different, but most importantly, it taught me that growth isn’t about a straight line – it’s about being bold enough to accelerate action at every turn. The most valuable advice I have received is ‘you can’t pour from an empty cup’. Communication is key – both at home and in the workplace. Setting boundaries, delegating tasks and asking for help when needed are essential strategies for managing stress and preventing burnout. In the workplace, don’t hesitate to discuss flexible working arrangements or expectations. And at home, recognise that it’s okay to share duties and lean on others when needed.  

4. How have you seen the workplace culture evolve during your time at work?

As a working mom, juggling multiple responsibilities can sometimes feel like walking on a tight rope, but PayStream has provided me with supportive work environment that has made all the difference. I’ve experienced first-hand how a workplace can be more empathetic toward the challenges of working parents—whether through flexible working hours, remote work options, or family leave policies that allow for a greater balance. PayStream has recognised that my professional contributions are just as valuable as my ability to care for my family. This flexibility has allowed me to be more productive, present, and engaged in both areas of my life. I believe that this evolving culture, where the focus is on results rather than rigid schedules, is key to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for everyone, especially working parents. It has encouraged me to continue to push forward in my career, knowing that I don’t have to compromise my family commitments to succeed.

5. What message would you like to share with young women just starting their careers?

To young women starting their careers: Don’t wait for the perfect moment or the ‘right’ job. Don’t limit yourself to a rigid plan. Explore, experiment, and let your experiences shape who you become. Each chapter you create is part of your unique story. Trust your journey, stay adaptable, and remember that growth often happens in unexpected places. Accelerate action by exploring different paths, challenging yourself, and embracing change as a tool for growth. It’s about stepping up, making an impact, and refusing to settle for anything less than your fullest potential.

1. How can we all #AccelerateAction this International Women’s Day?

Supporting and uplifting women in the workplace isn’t just about one day – its about continuous action. We can accelerate change by advocating for equal opportunities, mentoring the next generation and celebrating the achievements of the women around us. 

2. Throughout your career, which woman has been your mentor or role model, and how has their guidance shaped your professional development?

For the majority of my career I have worked in a male dominated sales environment, and unfortunately haven’t had the opportunity to be mentored by a woman. I am lucky enough to have grown up around strong women in my family who show resilience, confidence and ambition. Having a two-year-old daughter reminds me every day why championing other women and pushing for a more equal world is so important.

3. Looking back on your career, what’s the most valuable piece of advice you’ve received or lesson you’ve learned?

‘Speak up and back yourself’. Confidence is key – whether it is negotiating a deal, putting yourself forward for opportunities or trusting your instincts. I’ve learnt that taking risks and embracing challenge is where real growth happens. 

4. How have you seen the workplace culture evolve during your time at work?

Over the last 10 years I have seen huge progress in creating a more inclusive and supporting environment. Flexible working, mental health awareness and a focus on work-life balance have all improved. It’s encouraging seeing women stepping into leadership roles and having their voices heard. 

5. What message would you like to share with young women just starting their careers?

Believe in yourself don’t be afraid to take up space, your voice and ideas matter. Work hard, learn from those around you and support other women along the way – there’s room for us all to succeed. 

1. How can we all #AccelerateAction this International Women’s Day?

For me, we can all really bring more awareness on women’s health, empowering women to check themselves out and to put pressure on the system to get results. It’s often that we are dismissed on issues that relate to women’s health, so if we’re going to accelerate action this year, we need to all come together, support and express the importance of women’s health

2. Throughout your career, which woman has been your mentor or role model, and how has their guidance shaped your professional development?

There's 2 I'd like to mention - Mary-Beth Hurst, Compliance & Expenses Manager and Nicola Whittaker, Customer Experience Manager. Both have shown me there are challenges I'll face but have also shown me how to navigate and overcome those challenges. I'm lucky to have worked closely with them, so I know what it takes to progress in my career.

3. Looking back on your career, what’s the most valuable piece of advice you’ve received or lesson you’ve learned?

I think it would be how to make sure your point of view is heard and how to get that point across. It's so easy to fade into the background so it's important not to lose your voice.

4. How have you seen the workplace culture evolve during your time at work?

During my time at PayStream, it has been really good to see more women becoming directors as it really shows that we’ve been accelerating action and showing women in the company at different positions that it’s possible to rise higher within the company.

5. What message would you like to share with young women just starting their careers?

That you can really do whatever you want to do. If you've got an idea in mind, speak up. If you've got a dream or aspiration then express it and chase it. You are just as important as anyone else and your opinion matters.

1. How can we all #AccelerateAction this International Women’s Day?

I want each woman to know their own worth. We aren’t all good at the same things, and women have unique perspectives of issues, so having a diverse group of women in business is beneficial to everyone. I have a much younger sister, and I have aimed to instil in her that she has insight and knowledge that will be invaluable.   

2. Throughout your career, which woman has been your mentor or role model, and how has their guidance shaped your professional development?

I originally started at PayStream at the age of 17. At that time, Sally Morris was the Head of Payroll. From then on, wherever I worked, I always had her in the back of mind as a role model, due to her unwavering guidance and knowledge. She leads by example, emits kindness and professionalism. She has unknowingly helped me grow in confidence and ability.

3. Looking back on your career, what’s the most valuable piece of advice you’ve received or lesson you’ve learned?

As said by Beyonce, “I don’t like to gamble, but if there’s one thing I’m willing to bet on, it’s myself”

4. How have you seen the workplace culture evolve during your time at work?

Over the last decade I have worked in several different businesses and have seen a noticeable difference in the number of women making up the top roles. I am inspired by the women at Paystream who hold director positions and am grateful to work somewhere that values women. With their guidance, I hope to join them one day.

5. What message would you like to share with young women just starting their careers?

Be tenacious with what you want in your business life. We spend so much time at work, you deserve to get out as much as you put in.

1. How can we all #AccelerateAction this International Women’s Day?

We can accelerate action by showing personal and political support for women’s rights, especially in recent times when they are being undermined and taken away in supposedly civilised countries.

2. Throughout your career, which woman has been your mentor or role model, and how has their guidance shaped your professional development?

It may seem somewhat cliché, but I would have to say my mother. She was one of the first women to go to university for the sciences back in the 70s, studying Metallurgy and forging ahead despite there being very few women in her class. I followed in her footsteps by going into Software Development thirty years later, becoming the only woman to graduate in my year for my Bachelors, and one of only two for my Masters. Her bravery and willingness to trail blaze has always been an inspiration to me.

3. Looking back on your career, what’s the most valuable piece of advice you’ve received or lesson you’ve learned?

No matter what kind of problem you come across, it’s likely happened before. Don’t reinvent the wheel! By looking at what other people have tried and what does and doesn’t work you can get a better understanding of how to solve it. Also, just because that solution worked for them, doesn’t necessarily mean it will work for you! Always make sure to thoroughly understand what needs to be done so you can change as needed.

4. What message would you like to share with young women just starting their careers?

You can do it. Even if it is a subject or career that is traditionally male-dominated, if it interests you then go for it, and your story may well become what will help other young women into the industry over time.

1. How can we all #AccelerateAction this International Women’s Day?

We can accelerate action this International Women’s Day by accepting that we are still not living in a gender equal world and striving to change this. Collective action is vital, and one of the ways we can do this is by supporting causes which directly help women and girls globally. This includes areas such as access to education and training, ensuring access to healthcare and elevating women and girl’s achievement and visibility in sport. 

2. Throughout your career, which woman has been your mentor or role model, and how has their guidance shaped your professional development?

I’ve been lucky to work for a company who have many inspiring women in leadership roles. When I first started at PayStream ten years ago, I remember Jayne Stirrup, Chief financial Officer, giving her finance presentations every month, it was inspiring to see visible women in leadership roles then. This has only improved in the time I have worked here.

3. Looking back on your career, what’s the most valuable piece of advice you’ve received or lesson you’ve learned?

I think we are all learnings lessons constantly in our careers. It’s really important to feel comfortable with trying new things and potentially failing in the process because it’s the only way you improve.

4. How have you seen the workplace culture evolve during your time at work?

There is a stronger focus on mental health and wellbeing which is really significant, and introducing company policies such as fertility support and pregnancy loss support show a rounded understanding of the kinds of issues that women should feel supported in at work. PayStream having been recognised as one of the UK’s Best Workplaces for Women in 2024 is also testament to how the culture is evolving all the time.

5. What message would you like to share with young women just starting their careers?

I think Alice Walker articulated this more eloquently than I could when she said “The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any.” You cannot please everyone and that’s okay. Being the most authentic version of yourself is really important, especially in the workplace. Don’t underestimate the power of your own ideas.

1. How can we all #AccelerateAction this International Women’s Day?

For me this is about making sure that women have an opportunity to be part of the discussion, whether that’s about our work environment, our access to health care or the treatment of women in the arts and sports. Women’s voices and points of view matter for us to truly be treated equally in all aspects of life, we need the space to be heard.

2. Throughout your career, which woman has been your mentor or role model, and how has their guidance shaped your professional development?

My current manager Carmel is definitely someone I look to as a mentor and role model, she gives her team members the space to grow and develop, and actively encourages us to do so.

3. Looking back on your career, what’s the most valuable piece of advice you’ve received or lesson you’ve learned?

Don’t be afraid to speak up. If you see something that you can improve make the suggestion. If you see something wrong, say something. You can’t incite change if you remain silent and I think that’s something that applies to both professional and personal lives for all women.

4. How have you seen the workplace culture evolve during your time at work?

PayStream have always had a good workplace culture during my time here, we have a lot of senior managers and directors that are women which is something that is inspiring to see.

5. What message would you like to share with young women just starting their careers?

Believe in your own capabilities and use your voice.

1. How can we all #AccelerateAction this International Women’s Day?

There are many ways in which we can accelerate action this International Women’s Day; from supporting female entrepreneurs and purchasing from women-owned businesses, to volunteering at local organisations that support women in need, such as shelters, legal aid for survivors of domestic violence, or programs for girls’ education.

2. Throughout your career, which woman has been your mentor or role model, and how has their guidance shaped your professional development?

My mentor has definitely been my manager Louise Topham. Thanks to her guidance, I have been able to build on my strengths and address areas for improvement, which has helped me to develop in my role.

3. Looking back on your career, what’s the most valuable piece of advice you’ve received or lesson you’ve learned?

"Focus on continuous learning and adaptability." - The ability to learn new skills and adapt to changing technologies, industries, and job roles can set you apart from others. Being proactive about expanding your knowledge, staying curious, and embracing change can help you stay relevant and open doors to new opportunities throughout your career.

4. How have you seen the workplace culture evolve during your time at work?

Increased Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Efforts - Workplace diversity was often limited, with a lack of emphasis on inclusion, equity, and creating supportive environments for people of all backgrounds. DEI initiatives have become a central focus in most workplaces. Companies are actively working to diversify their teams, address systemic inequalities, and create inclusive environments where everyone can thrive, regardless of their race, gender, or background.

5. What message would you like to share with young women just starting their careers?

Surround yourself with supportive people, advocate for yourself, and don't be afraid to take risks. 

1. How can we all #AccelerateAction this International Women’s Day?

Run towards any barriers with a sledgehammer!

2. Throughout your career, which woman has been your mentor or role model, and how has their guidance shaped your professional development?

I have been fortunate to have several female role models throughout my career but one who stands out is Clare Baker, HR Director. Clare continuously encourages a positive company culture and has given me plenty of guidance and support with my career and home life over the years. 

3. Looking back on your career, what’s the most valuable piece of advice you’ve received or lesson you’ve learned?

Don't be afraid to go out of your comfort zone with career decision making, it is how we learn and it is how we grow.

4. How have you seen the workplace culture evolve during your time at work?

Work-life balance support has evolved over the years. By providing flexible working arrangements and being a mother of two, it allows me to manage my professional career and personal life.

5. What message would you like to share with young women just starting their careers?

Don't be afraid to use your voice. If something doesn't sit well with you or you have ideas, don't be afraid to speak up and allow yourself to be heard.