Changing the landscape – women in business and sport

To honour the leadership of women in business and sport, Best of British Events hosted a special event featuring guest speaker and local legend, former England and Arsenal Captain, Faye White MBE, in celebration of International Women’s Month 2024.

In recent years, the landscape of women’s football in the United Kingdom has undergone a remarkable transformation, shifting from the shadows into the spotlight. As the sport gains unprecedented recognition and support, there is a growing emphasis on cultivating diversity within the realm of women’s football.

The surge in popularity of women’s football can be attributed to various factors, including increased media coverage, investment and the tireless efforts of athletes and advocates. Historically overshadowed by the men’s game, women’s football has emerged as a force in its own right, capturing the hearts of fans and breaking barriers.

In recent months, Brighton was granted preliminary approval to locate a suitable site for the construction of a stadium exclusively designed for women’s football. Brighton is set to pioneer the establishment of the first-ever purpose-built ground for a professional women’s team in England, which marks a significant milestone for the club and for the women’s game.

Bella Sankey, Head of Brighton and Hove City Council, expressed her confidence in the council’s decision, hoping that it can serve as a catalyst for long-term success for the women’s team and contribute to the advancement of women’s sports.

In addition to investment and media backing, elevating diverse role models within women’s football can inspire a broader range of individuals and sponsors to engage with the sport. Celebrating athletes from various backgrounds and experiences will help break down barriers and challenge stereotypes, embracing a more inclusive culture.

To support this, leading event company, Best of British Events hosted a special networking event in celebration of International Women’s Month, where guests were joined by former England and Arsenal Captain, Faye White MBE.

During the event, Faye shared insight into the hardship, dedication and sacrifices she made to become one of England’s most successful female football Captains.

Guests also had the opportunity to meet and hear from the youngest aspiring female Racing Driver and F100 British Champion, Jade Goodwin.

Attendees included some of Sussex’s leading business professionals, including representatives from Creative Pod, Cognitive Law, Plus Accounting, FRP Advisory, Devils Dyke Gin, and Rivervale.

The event was in partnership with Prior Media and Marketing, who collectively aim to support diversity and inclusion in business as well as sport.

Director of Prior Media and Marketing, Stephanie Prior said: “It has been an honour to work with Best of British Events on a special initiative which not only celebrates the successes of women in business and sport, but also provides an opportunity to unite the business community and highlight the importance of building a more diverse and inclusive business network.”

“We are extremely grateful to guests and sponsors, who have been valuable allies in supporting this initiative and what has become an annual sell-out event.”

Ryan Heal, Managing Director of Best of British Events, said: “Supporting International Women’s Month provides an opportunity to celebrate the invaluable contributions of women worldwide, promoting inclusivity and inspiring positive change across all facets of society.

“Faye White is a local legend who grew up in Sussex. It was a fantastic opportunity to meet Faye, listen to her story and learn more about how the business community can contribute to breaking barriers that support more women lead in sport and in business.”

This prestigious networking event was in aid of the Girls Friendly Society – a feminist charity that has spent almost 150 years supporting girls and young women.

For more information regarding Best of British Events, please visit:

https://bestofbritish.org.uk/