About this Event
Novi is proud to present this exclusive leadership dinner in partnership with Rolls-Royce SMR, bringing together ambitious women for an evening of meaningful conversation, practical leadership insights and powerful networking.
Join Padmaja Das, Nuclear Deterministic Engineer at Rolls-Royce SMR and winner of the Novi Bravery Award 2025, for a powerful and deeply honest evening on:
The Practice of Bravery: How it Shows Up in Leadership and Life
Padmaja has built her career in some of the most high-stakes and male-dominated environments in the UK, and along the way she has learned exactly what it costs to stand firm in your values — and to do it anyway. Her leadership is rooted in conviction, integrity and action, even when the personal cost is high.
This intimate dinner is more than a talk. It's a conversation about courage in real time — what it actually looks like, what it demands, and how to find it in yourself when it matters most.
Whether you're navigating leadership challenges, stepping into greater visibility, or questioning when to speak up, this evening will leave you thinking differently about what bravery truly requires.
What to Expect
- A candid, first-hand account of leading through adversity in high-pressure environments
- Practical reflections on when to speak up, and when to hold your ground
- A powerful network of ambitious, high-calibre women from across industries
- An evening of meaningful networking in an intimate setting
Held in the elegant surroundings of The Ivy Tower Bridge, with a menu spanning British classics to Asian-inspired dishes and options for all dietary preferences, including vegetarian and vegan.
Meet Your Speaker
Padmaja Das, Nuclear Deterministic Engineer, Rolls-Royce SMR and Novi Bravery Award WInner 2025
A passionate Nuclear Engineer who has devoted her life in fighting for gender and ethnic equality which resulted in loss of career however that did not deter me from carrying on fight for rigorousness. Ex Military where the military career started in 2008 during my university Time as an Officer Cadet for University of London Air Squadron. finally gaining commission in the Royal Naval Reserves within Submarines Ops Branch. Along side my day job as a Engineer for Dreadnought and Astute Class Submarines. Faced racism, Sexism, Bullying, harassment and victimisation and although the case which was backed by evidence was brushed under the carpet , I took it to the parliament and defence committee for justice knowing that it would have a detrimental impact on my career, however carried on the fight to Deliver change for the welfare of the next generation. As a result of this instigation numerous sexual harassment, harassment cases were investigated and positive change within the armed forces. I am currently a Nuclear Deterministic Engineer at Rolls Royce SMR and a committee member for REACH, GENIE and Sentinal Network, working tirelesslely as a Nuclear Engineer but to positively influence the company for gender and ethnic equality.
Location & Getting There
- By Train: 7-minute walk from London Bridge Station
- By Car: Parking available at Tower Bridge Parking (50 Lower Thames St, London EC3R 6DT)
- City Centre: Perfectly situated near Tower Bridge, ideal for combining with a riverside stroll or cultural activities
Important Notes
- Ticket includes your seat at the table, welcome drink and a two-course Heritage Menu
- Please RSVP to secure your place
- Limited places are available to ensure meaningful conversation and quality networking
Don't miss this opportunity to meet the incredible women in our community. Whether you're new or a familiar face, there's a seat at our table.
About Our Partner
This exclusive event is proudly presented in partnership with Rolls-Royce SMR, Official Sponsor of the Novi Awards. Together, we're committed to celebrating and supporting exceptional women in leadership by creating opportunities for inspiring conversations, meaningful connections and career advancement.
Rolls-Royce SMR is developing a radically new approach to deploying proven nuclear technology, economically and efficiently, to meet a global need for reliable, secure, and affordable power. Facing a worldwide energy emergency driven by rising prices, supply instability, and ageing nuclear infrastructure, Rolls-Royce SMR has designed its Small Modular Reactor specifically to avoid the cost and schedule challenges that have impacted large-scale nuclear projects in recent years. Through a unique factory-built approach, approximately 90% of each plant is fabricated, tested, and delivered to site as modules, then assembled and commissioned by the Rolls-Royce SMR team, reducing project risk and increasing delivery certainty. Rolls-Royce SMR helps countries decarbonise industry, strengthen energy security, and meet net zero commitments at every stage of deployment.
To learn more, visit:
Event venue & nearby stays
The Ivy Tower Bridge, One Tower Bridge Road, London, United Kingdom
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