Our countdown to International Women’s Day 2025 might be drawing to an end but we're still continuing to highlight the incredible women within our network who are shaping industries, driving innovation, and making a lasting impact.
In todays post we put the women of Impact Futures front and centre. Through their work, they have helped shape an organisation that values growth, learning, and the development of others, ensuring that people have the opportunities and support to reach their full potential.
We are delighted that they would share their thoughts and feelings with us in this International Women's Day campaign—offering insight into the challenges they have overcome, the successes they have achieved, and the ways they continue to uplift those around them.
Nicole Smith, Chief Operating Officer
What impact do you strive to make within your organisation and beyond?
“As a Chief Operating Officer and a woman in leadership, the impact I strive to make extends beyond operational excellence. I aim to foster a culture of empowerment, inclusivity, and sustainable growth within my organisation and beyond.
Internally, I focus on creating an environment where diverse voices are not just heard but valued. I champion mentorship, particularly for women and underrepresented groups, ensuring they have the opportunities, support, and confidence to advance in their careers.
Ultimately, my goal is to lead by example, demonstrating that strong leadership is about both results and relationships. I want to leave a legacy where more women and diverse leaders step into executive roles, knowing they belong, they are capable, and they can thrive.."
How do you empower and support other women in your organisation?
"I strive to ensure that women have access to leadership development programmes, stretch assignments, and a strong network of allies who champion their growth. I actively mentor and sponsor high-potential women, advocating for their advancement and ensuring they are seen, heard, and valued in decision-making spaces. By cultivating an inclusive environment where women feel confident using their voices and stepping into leadership, my driver is to help pave the way for their long-term success."
What achievement are you most proud of?
"Being where I am right here right now working with fantastic inspirational individuals."
Jenny Parkes, Operations Director
What impact do you strive to make within your organisation and beyond?
"I strive to create a warm and personal culture of inclusivity, empowerment and growth. My goal is to lead by example, fostering an environment where all voices—especially those of women—are heard and valued. Beyond my organisation, I aim to inspire and mentor the next generation of female leaders, advocating for equal opportunities and challenging barriers that hinder progress."
How do you empower and support other women in your organisation?
“I empower other women by providing mentorship, creating opportunities for growth, and fostering a supportive network where they feel confident to take on leadership roles. I actively advocate for policies that promote gender equity, work-life balance, and professional development and always lead my teams to ensure that they always instil these in their teams.”
What achievement are you most proud of?
“ Seeing the tangible impact of my efforts, whether in the success of individuals I’ve mentored or in the positive culture that my stewardship creates and always having happy people!”
Becki Lee, Quality Director
What impact do you strive to make within your organisation and beyond?
"My goal is to create an environment where individuals are encouraged to grow, contribute, and thrive. I focus on building a positive, solution-focused culture that centres around collaboration, continuous development, and a growth mindset. By supporting the development of others, I aim to ensure everyone feels valued and equipped to succeed, both personally and professionally."
How do you empower and support other women in your organisation?
“I empower women by building their confidence and self-esteem, encouraging them to take on new challenges and embrace their strengths. I am committed to providing opportunities for growth and advancement, whether through mentoring, coaching, or creating pathways to leadership roles. My approach is based on helping women recognise their potential and feel supported to pursue their career goals.”
What achievement are you most proud of?
“I am proud of my ability to embrace change and (hopefully!) make an impact in a new organisation by enhancing existing processes and supporting others as they adjust to new ways of working. In my current position, I’ve been able to build meaningful relationships and contribute to the success of both individuals and teams. Being able to make a positive difference, even as someone who is relatively new to Impact Futures, is extremely important to me and so far, it has been a fabulous experience.”
Dedication, Expertise, and Resilience
The women at Impact Futures embody dedication, expertise, and resilience. Their journeys serve as a powerful reminder that, regardless of your role, your contributions shape the future and create lasting impact.
We hope their stories inspire others to recognise their own achievements and to step forward with confidence and ambition in their professional lives.
Let’s continue to celebrate, support, and uplift women—not just on International Women’s Day, but every day.
To learn more about Impact Futures, visit their website linked below:
To learn more about International Women's Day, visit the website provided below:
Stay tuned for our next post, where we’ll be spotlighting some more of the incredible women within our network, whom we are proud to work alongside.
#InspireInclusion #IWD2025 #Womenof #NQual #ImpactFutures
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