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The British Association of Women Entrepreneurs (BAWE) is proud to announce its first-ever event in Sheffield, taking place this September at the city’s iconic venue – The Cutlers’ Hall. This prestigious gathering marks a significant moment in the organisation’s history, blending female entrepreneurship with the proud industrial heritage of Sheffield.Founded over 50 years ago, BAWE is the UK’s only national membership organisation representing women owners of businesses with capital at risk. It is part of the global network FCEM – Les Femmes Chefs d’Entreprises Mondiales, with affiliate groups in over 60 countries and representation at the United Nations in New York. BAWE members include some of the most dynamic female entrepreneurs in the UK, and its reach is international.
On Friday, 19th September, guests will be welcomed to the Grade II listed Cutlers’ Hall, built in 1832 and home to the Company of Cutlers in Hallamshire, which was established by Act of Parliament in 1624.
BAWE President Louise Oliver, who hails from Sheffield, said: “As someone with deep roots in this great city, I am delighted that BAWE is coming to Sheffield for the very first time. It feels especially meaningful to be hosting this event in such an iconic venue that stands as a beacon of our region’s industrial and cultural heritage.”
Attendees will enjoy a guided tour by the Hall’s Beadle, who traditionally oversees ceremonial duties including hosting dignitaries and managing formal events such as the Master Cutler’s installation – a role that famously includes halting traffic in the city. The event will also feature a drinks reception, an elegant lunch, and a soon-to-be-announced inspirational guest speaker.
In addition to celebrating women in business, the event will also proudly support the Bright Young Dreams Campaign, founded in Sheffield but shared with the world by none other than Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill. Bright Young Dreams was launched in 2023 to raise vital funds for The Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity.
The campaign aims to address the rising mental health challenges faced by children worldwide. If left untreated, these issues can have lasting impacts into adulthood, affecting both mental and physical well-being. Bright Young Dreams aims to create a brighter future for young people by backing groundbreaking research, supporting clinicians, and building world-class facilities. "Together, we can make a real difference in children’s mental health and well-being.” - Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill
This event follows BAWE’s highly successful event at Chatsworth House two years ago, which was held in support of Dame Julie Kenny’s Master Cutler’s Challenge, raising funds for community projects at Wentworth Woodhouse. Dame Julie was a great supporter of BAWE, attending many meetings and championing women in business throughout her life. The BAWE Board is deeply saddened that Dame Julie, in her passing, will not be able to join this upcoming celebration - but a glass will be raised, and a moment taken to honour her remarkable legacy and the industrious spirit she brought to so many businesses and causes across our region.
The event will also highlight the growing membership of BAWE in the Derbyshire / Yorkshire region, with BAWE board member Alex Gardner, and members including Annie Buckley, Kath Stagg, Cheryl Scothorne, and Jay Bhayani, all based in Sheffield and Dronfield.
BAWE’s History
Since its founding in the aftermath of WWII by French steel factory owner Madame Yvonne Edmond Foinant, the organisation has empowered women entrepreneurs through networking, policy influence, and global partnerships. In 1953, the UK chapter was formed, and today BAWE continues to grow as a respected voice for British businesswomen.
Alex Gardner, BAWE Board Member, added: “As a proud Sheffield-based businesswoman, it feels incredibly special to help bring our first BAWE event to the Cutlers’ Hall. With a rich industrial past and a dynamic entrepreneurial future, Sheffield is the perfect place to host this event. We really can say, with absolute pride, that we’re celebrating women, in the Steel City.”
Guests - £75
Members - Please use the code sent via your email to receive your membership reduction.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
The Cutlers' Hall, 28 Fargate, Sheffield, S1 2HE, United Kingdom
Tickets
