Recognised at Drummonds Bank as One of 30 Inspirational Women in STEM and Construction

I had the honour of attending the Inspirational Business Women in STEM and Construction Dinner at Drummonds Bank, an unforgettable evening after being recognised as one of 30 winners celebrated for Leading Change in STEM and Construction.

To be acknowledged in this way as both a student and the CEO of Perfect Sense AQ Ltd was incredibly surreal. Standing among such an inspirational group of females who are actively shaping industries, challenging norms, and supporting others as they go was one of the most meaningful and motivating experiences of my journey so far.

Why It Mattered

The atmosphere in the room was filled with purpose. These were women building businesses, driving innovation, influencing policy, and mentoring others into their power. To be counted among them and recognised as someone also leading change felt both affirming and galvanising. It reminded me that leadership isn’t about age or title, it’s about action, values, and the impact you choose to make.

The Power of Mentorship

My path has been shaped by mentors who didn’t just guide me, but believed in me, offering challenge, perspective, and encouragement. That belief has helped me grow not only as an entrepreneur but as someone confident enough to take up space and use my voice.

That same day, I had the privilege of contributing to a STEMAspire workshop hosted by Dell Technologies. Organised by my mentor Robert Timms and supported by Paul Brook, Ihab El Ghazzawi, and Rachel North, it brought together young people navigating their own STEM journeys. Their team has supported me in ways that extend beyond encouragement; they’ve helped me build the technical knowledge, communication skills, and confidence I need to lead.

Collective Leadership and Authentic Recognition

The dinner itself, hosted by Yvonne Greeves and Dr Roni Savage FREng, was more than a celebration; it was a platform to spotlight women making real, measurable impact across business and innovation. It was also a reminder that behind every achievement is a network of mentors, colleagues, and allies who help make progress possible.

I was moved by the incredibly kind words shared by Renee Preston and Vanya Milovanovic. Their leadership, authenticity, and generosity were inspiring, and their encouragement is something I’ll carry with me.

A Message to Young Leaders: We’re Already Here

To the young ambassadors in the room and to anyone starting in a field where you might not always feel visible, I want to say this: you are not just the future; you are already here. You’re already contributing, questioning, building. Keep showing up. Keep speaking up. Keep finding your people.

At Perfect Sense AQ Ltd., we’re not only developing innovative environmental sensing technology, but we’re also committed to building a culture of inclusive teamwork and leadership. Being recognised among this group of 30 changemakers has only strengthened my commitment to ensuring young voices, especially those from non-traditional pathways into STEM, are heard and supported.

This moment will stay with me for a long time, and I’ll use it to keep moving forward with purpose.