Inspirational role models talking about empowerment was the running theme of the conference, which was organised by final year Project Management students, with support and guidance from the University’s Careers and Employability Service and sponsorship from Enterprise Rent-a-Car.

Third year students, Adrianna Antys, Godfrey Olisa, Minh Anh Pham, Nicoleta Mitea, and Shireen Ahmed, worked hard to create an inclusive, informative and celebratory event.

The conference was opened by Bedfordshire’s Dr Kellie Vincent, Interim Associate Dean Teaching, Learning and Student Experience, who discussed success, challenges, and work-life balance.

Following this, Raj Dohil from Enterprise Rent-a-Car looked at women in leadership and equality in the workforce.

Shireen Ahmed, studying in Bedfordshire’s Business School, said: “It is a great way of celebrating and highlighting the global achievements of women.  

“As the group Project Manager, I was blown away by how well my team and I successfully managed to pull together and deliver this event, on time and with a great turnout.

“There were many challenges and lessons learnt along the way, but the community around us has been tremendously supportive. Our Business School, Beds SU and especially our Careers team, have been in non-stop communication through-out to ensure we had all of the support possible.”

Adrianna Antys, studying Business Studies (Project Management), said: “International Women's Day gives us a chance to honour the first women who were brave enough to fight for all the rights we now take for granted. As a young woman, I feel very grateful for opportunity to vote, work, and study and make my dreams come true!

“I feel very blessed that I had such a great opportunity to work with Priya from the Careers Office, my team and all the people who were involved in the project.

“Also, our tutor, Richard Ogston was a huge support throughout the whole process. He believed in us during our 'ups and downs' and always listened to us patiently and provided us with a good advice.”

Michelle Everitt, Head of the University’s Careers & Employability Service, said: “It was wonderful to see a wide range of speakers and organisations across different sectors at the conference.

“Attendance this year was excellent with an even spread of both males and females coming together to celebrate women.

“The University takes pride in supporting its communities and working with a range of businesses. We are extremely proud of the way in which Adrianna, Godfrey, Minh Anh Pham, Nicoleta, and Shireen showcased their skills and abilities in organising this fantastic event.

“We would also like to thank Enterprise Rent-A-Car for generously sponsoring the event.”