AFIUK’s 10th Annual Women’s Conference

@10: A Decade of Inspiration, Empowerment & Change

Inspired by this year’s International Women’s Day Theme, Give to gain, our women’s health conference is built on the belief that investing in women’s wellbeing is an investment in stronger families, workplaces and communities. Our conference brings together healthcare professional advocates, leaders, and community members to share insights, resources and solutions that advance women’s health and wellbeing. 

Date: 11 March 2026  |  Time: 9.30am – 2:00pm  |  Venue: FirstStie, Lewis Gardens, High Street, Colchester, C01 1JH

Program Details

Stall Set-Up: 8:15am – 9:20am

Refreshments & Arrival: 9:00am – 9:45am
Tea and coffee available. Delegates arrive, register and begin visiting stalls.

Morning Session

10:00am – 10:05am: Welcome & Opening Remarks
Dr (HC) Rachel Walton 

10:05am – 10:20am: Dr Yemisi Sloane
Health, Wealth and Wellbeing: Why Women’s Empowerment Starts with Care

10:20am – 10:35am: Sally Shaw (MBE) 
From Support to Power: Building the Next Generation of Women Leaders

10:35am – 10:50am: Jamie Hanson
Research on AFIUK’s Mother & Toddler Programme

10:50am – 11:05am: Cllr. Nathalie Sommers
Women in Politics & Leadership: Driving Change Through Policy and Advocacy

11:20am – 11:35am: Yvette Wetton
The Power of Collective Action: When Communities Champion Women

Conference Break (45 minutes)

11:35am – 12:20pm: Networking, Stall Visits & Refreshments

Afternoon Session

12:20pm – 12:35pm: Sam Glover
From Support to Power: Building the Next Generation of Women Leaders

12:35pm – 12:50pm: Prof. Renee Luthra
Giving Forward: How Investing in Women Drives Economic Growth

1:00pm – 1:25pm: Panel Reflections – Questions and Answers

Lunch & Networking

1:30pm – 2:00pm: Lunch served. Delegates encouraged to visit stalls and network. Tea available throughout
stall engagement period.

Event Close: 2:00pm