This week’s InspireHER Breakfast, hosted in partnership with Lloyds Banking Group, brought together women and allies from across Manchester’s tech community for a morning of connection, inspiration, and honest conversation.
The theme, The Power of Storytelling, ran through the entire event, reminding everyone of the importance of sharing our journeys, however “squiggly” they might be.
The Power of Storytelling with Sam Leonard
We began the morning with an energising storytelling workshop led by Sam Leonard, Training Consultant and Executive Coach, who helped attendees explore how to craft and share their personal stories with confidence and authenticity.
Sam encouraged everyone to find the meaning behind their experiences and to use storytelling as a way to build connection, empathy, and influence - whether in the workplace or beyond.
Women at Lloyds Banking Group: Stories of Pride and Purpose
A panel of women from Lloyds Banking Group then took to the stage to reflect on their own career journeys: what they’re most proud of, how they’ve navigated change, and the reality of “squiggly” careers that don’t always follow a straight line.
Their stories showed that growth rarely comes from a perfect plan, but from curiosity, courage, and community. Thanks to Suzanne Ellison, Sue Hargreaves, Saba Ferdous, Danielle Linford and Ailis McSweeney for sharing your stories so openly.
Lightning Talks: ‘Do the thing anyway’
We also heard from two incredible members of the Digital Her community, who shared how saying yes to opportunities, even when they didn’t feel ready, became defining moments in their careers
💡Arushi Singh, Software Engineer at AJ Bell, spoke about how “everything happened because I asked one question.”
She reminded us that moments of growth often come from taking a chance - doing the thing anyway - even when self-doubt creeps in. Her journey of learning to take up space and find her voice resonated deeply with many in the room.
Caitlin Bourne, Project and Programme Manager at Scale-Ability, shared her own squiggly career path, transitioning into tech after throwing herself into Lancashire’s tech community and joining the MentorHER network. Through mentorship and community, she built confidence and belonging - proving that putting yourself out there really can change everything.
Key Takeaways
Growth starts with action, even when you don’t feel ready.
Stories connect us - they help others see what’s possible.
Confidence grows in a community, when we show up and lift each other.
“Squiggly” careers aren’t setbacks - they’re stories of exploration and strength.
Collaboration drives impact - partnerships help make lasting change.
From storytelling to shared experiences, the InspireHER Breakfast captured what makes the Digital Her community so powerful: women supporting women, amplifying each other’s voices, and proving that you don’t need to have it all figured out - you just need to start.
Exciting Announcement: CGI joins as MentorHER partner
We were also thrilled to announce a new partnership with CGI, who will be joining the MentorHER programme.
This collaboration will help even more women across Greater Manchester access mentoring, guidance, and the supportive community they need to thrive in digital and tech careers.
Want to learn more about our Digital Her community? https://digitalher.co.uk/inspiration-wall/
