You & Your Brand

Wednesday, 12th March 2025

Royal Mid-Surrey Golf Club, TW9 2SB

Unlocking Your Future!

Every year, Really Helpful Club proudly hosts the highly anticipated You & Your Brand – Unlocking Your Future, an empowering event designed to support our thriving business and member community. Since the inception of our Back to Business programme, we’ve helped thousands of individuals rediscover their career paths, explore fresh opportunities, and take meaningful steps forward.

This year’s conference, You & Your Brand – Unlocking Your Future, offers an incredible opportunity to gain inspiration, learn from accomplished industry leaders, and take the next bold step in your professional or entrepreneurial journey. we are delighted to welcome Emma Bridgewater, founder of the renowned homeware brand Emma Bridgewater, as our keynote speaker. Emma will share her remarkable story of building a successful business, overcoming challenges, and powerful insights for anyone ready to unlock their potential.

We together our business and member community with highly experienced, inspirational industry professionals and thought leaders to share their knowledge, insights, tips, and advice. Through a series of engaging and interactive talks, expert exhibitors, and roundtable sessions/workshops, you’ll gain invaluable tools to help you grow both personally and professionally. We will encourage and empower you to step out of your comfort zone, giving you the confidence to go out there and achieve your dreams.

Whether you’re looking to launch or grow your business, return to work after a career break, pivot in a new direction, or advance your career, this event has something for everyone. It’s an opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals, learn from inspirational leaders, and gain practical insights that will help you build your confidence, develop your skills, and achieve your ambitions.

Join us at the beautiful Royal Mid-Surrey Golf Club in Richmond, Surrey, on Wednesday, 12th March 2025. Take part in this transformative experience designed to help you unlock your future, realise your full potential, and step boldly into the next chapter of your journey.

proudly sponsored by

HSBC UK

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Quilter Cheviot

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The Return Hub

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WSM PARTNERS LLP

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WHY ATTEND

Our You & Your Brand Conference 2025 is the ultimate event to help you unlock your potential, connect with like-minded individuals, and gain invaluable insights from industry professionals and thought leaders. Through a series of inspiring talks, interactive workshops, and expert-led sessions, this transformational event is designed to empower you to take the next step in your career or business journey with confidence.

Whether you’re just starting out, looking to advance, or considering a change, this event is packed with opportunities to:

Start or grow a business or take an established one to the next level
Get back into the workplace after a break
Regain confidence
Enter the business world after graduating from school, college, or university
Advance or change your career path
Learn a new skill or re-train for a different career
Expand your network and connect with like-minded people
Discover something new and be inspired!

Our Speakers

ANDREA MCLEAN

Andrea McLean is a TV presenter, #1 Sunday Times bestselling author, and media coach specialising in overcoming fear. With over 20 years as a national broadcaster, she has interviewed global stars, including Oprah Winfrey. Andrea empowers women to enhance their confidence and effectively communicate their personal and brand stories.

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Annie Rodgers

Founder - The Career Navigator

Annie is a career coach dedicated to fostering professional well-being. With nearly three decades in corporate roles at Discovery Networks, NBC Universal, and The Wall Street Journal, Annie brings a strategic approach to empowering individuals, teams, and organisations to embrace meaningful change and thrive.

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CATHERINE ANN REID

Founder & CEO - doqit

Catherine Ann is the Founder & CEO of doqit, a life admin management app. As a mother to a child with complex needs, Catherine Ann has firsthand experience of the importance of simplifying life's administrative tasks. With a 30-year background in sales, business development, and strategy, she is passionate about empowering others to do the same.

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Dominie Moss

Founder - The Return Hub

Dominie Moss is the Founder of The Return Hub, a pioneering executive search firm specialising in financial services. With 22 years of industry experience, including 17 in executive search, Dominie helps professionals re-enter mid-senior roles after career breaks, career changes, or transitions back to positions matching their full potential.

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EMMA BRIDGEWATER

Founder - Emma Bridgewater

Emma Bridgewater founded her eponymous pottery company in 1985 after identifying a gap in the market for colourful, practical ceramics. Her designs, inspired by traditional spongeware techniques, have become iconic in British homes. Committed to UK manufacturing, Emma's Stoke-on-Trent factory employs over 200 people, exemplifying her dedication to British craftsmanship and design.

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Esther Stanhope

Founder - The Impact Guru

Esther Stanhope is a sought-after TEDx and keynote speaker, award-winning author and personal impact expert. Known to corporate clients as “The Impact Guru”, she helps leaders communicate with confidence, credibility and presence when it matters most. With a background in broadcasting and more than 30 years of experience, including 10 years at the BBC, Esther has worked with global organisations including Deloitte, Lloyds Banking Group, Barclays, Allianz, the British Army, and the Universities of Oxford, Cambridge and Harvard. She is the author of Goodbye Glossophobia and Visibly Brilliant.

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Joy Foster

Founder & CEO - TechPixies

Joy Foster is the founder and CEO of TechPixies, a multi-award-winning social enterprise that helps women in midlife upskill in social media. Through CPD-accredited courses, life coaching and Neurocoaching™, she empowers women to build confidence, re-enter the workforce, change careers, or launch their own businesses—paving the way for financial freedom. Her work has transformed thousands of lives and created a growing, supportive community of women nationwide.

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KIM PALMER

Founder - Clementine

Kim Palmer is an award-winning innovator in women’s wellness and 2024 FemTech World Award winner. As founder of Clementine, a wellbeing app supporting over 160,000 women, Kim transformed her struggles with anxiety into a mission to help others. Clementine has been twice named Apple’s “App of the Day” and featured by The Guardian.

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Lucy Standing

Co-Founder - Brave Starts CIC

Lucy Standing co-founded Brave Starts CIC, a nonprofit guiding midlife professionals towards their next career steps. A Chartered Psychologist, Lucy has advised UK Parliament, the OECD, and appeared in the FT, Times, and BBC. Formerly Vice Chair of the Association for Business Psychology, she brings experience from strategy consulting and investment banking.

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NICK BLANCHARD

Founder - Zoco Networking

Nick Blanchard is the founder of Zoco Networking, a community bridging the gap between formal networking and social meetups. With 16 years of experience, he created Zoco to foster genuine connections and support. A passionate rugby fan and live events enthusiast, Nick thrives on bringing people together and fostering genuine connections.

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Poppy Fox

Investment Manager - Quilter Cheviot

Poppy Fox is an Investment Manager at Quilter Cheviot, where she champions women in finance and investment. With a degree in Politics and Sociology from Durham, Poppy began her career at Brooks Macdonald before joining Quilter Cheviot in 2020. She supports women through life transitions like bereavement and divorce and has been nominated for Investment Week’s Women in Investment Awards.

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Poppy Mardall

Founder - Poppy's Funerals

Poppy Mardall founded Poppy’s in 2012 to bring a fresh approach to funerals. Since then Poppy’s has supported thousands of clients across Greater London to have personal, meaningful funerals and in 2024 the business opened a new store front in East Sheen. Poppy has previously been a trustee at Cruse Bereavement Support, a volunteer at Royal Trinity Hospice and a Samaritan.

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Sam Cooper-Gray

Founder - The Wisdom Studio

Sam Cooper-Gray is a strategist, storyteller, podcaster and advocate for female-led business. As founder of The Wisdom Studio, she helps purpose-driven SMEs grow with clarity, impact and intention, drawing on more than 25 years’ experience in global finance, including her role as HSBC’s Global Head of SME Strategy. Sam led the launch of HSBC’s $1 billion Female Entrepreneur Debt Fund and the UK’s £250 million Women’s Business Growth Initiative. She also chairs The Gender Index and leads the Conditions to Scale workstream for the UK Government’s Invest in Women Taskforce.

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Sarah Austin

Founder - Really Helpful Club

Sarah Austin is the Founder and CEO of Really Helpful Club, a vibrant and trusted community supporting members through every stage of life. Since launching in 2014, she has grown the network to over 20,000 members, offering expert recommendations and inspiring events. She previously worked as a Senior Director and Investment Manager at Barings, and holds an MA in Classics and Modern Languages from the University of Oxford.

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WENDY PATTERSON

Managing Partner - WSM Partners LLP

Wendy is Managing Partner at WSM, a top 100 UK accounting practice with offices in Wimbledon, Kingston, and Guildford. A Fellow of ICAEW and ACCA with over 30 years of experience, Wendy specialises in advising small businesses and property clients. Known for her professionalism and compassion, she inspires her team to excel collectively and individually.

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You & Your Brand 2025 Testimonials

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It was a pleasure to have recently partnered with Really Helpful Club, it truly is a wonderful organisation that really care about supporting and empowering its people. Sarah brings together an amazing group of people, and the room during our conference had such a special energy to it. I really enjoyed being involved, listening to such a range of talks, and chatting to lots of brilliant women.

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Poppy Fox

Sponsor - March 2025

Quilter Cheviot

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What a fabulous day! It was a joy to be surrounded by such energetic and driven women. I found all of the sessions interesting and inspiring and have come away with a renewed sense of purpose.

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Tracey Augur

Guest - March 2025

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Firstly, a HUGE thank you for the wonderful invite to the ‘You & Your Brand’ event on Wednesday. Both Sophie and I left feeling incredibly inspired by the wonderful speakers – it’s certainly one of the best events I’ve been to in a long time.

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Amy McIlwraith

Guest - March 2025

Romulus

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Thank you so much for the very inspiring and enjoyable event yesterday.The speakers were outstanding, the venue, with its stunning views, was great and you were absolutely brilliant.

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Anonymous

Guest - March 2025

{

Having experienced the magic that happens at the Really Helpful Club events, WSM were delighted to be asked to sponsor the You and Your Brand conference. Being able to offer financial advice to so many inspirational people and hear some stories from world class entrepreneurs made us very proud to be associated with the event. Congratulations Sarah and team for a fantastic and very motivating conference; we look forward to being involved in many more’

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Wendy Patterson

Sponsor - March 2025

WSM Partners

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‘It was a great pleasure to host a panel on female entrepreneurship at The Really Helpful Club You and Your Brand Conference – great speakers and insight across the day.’

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Sam Cooper-Gray

Sponsor - March 2025

HSBC UK

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A day that was overflowing with ‘really helpful’ shares, lessons, and opportunity.

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Catherine Ann Reid

Speaker - March 2025

Doqit

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The You and Your Brand Conference was outstanding! Insightful speakers, top-notch networking, and actionable takeaways. The Really Helpful Club events just keep getting better every year—I’d highly recommend attending!

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Dominie Moss

Sponsor - March 2025

The Return Hub

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You are magnificent at what you do – bringing together energised people so they can connect and empower each other.

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Poppy Mardall

Speaker - March 2025

Poppy's Funerals

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It was a fantastic event. I don’t think I have ever heard such a volume of fantastic speakers in succession, and your personal energy is incredible!

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Tom Wright

Guest - March 2025

Cancer Research UK

Our Workshop Leaders

In the afternoon, our expert-led roundtable workshops will provide actionable insights, practical advice, and invaluable knowledge to help delegates advance in their careers or businesses. These interactive sessions are designed to not only inform but also inspire and empower attendees to break through barriers, embrace new opportunities, and build the confidence needed to achieve their goals. Whether you’re looking to develop new skills, refine your business strategy, or explore new career paths, these workshops are tailored to equip you with the tools and motivation to succeed.

Brave Starts CIC

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BUSINESS CLAN

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HOUSE OF COLOUR

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QUEEN BEE MARKETING AI

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Quilter Cheviot

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TechPixies

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WSM PARTNERS LLP

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Our Exhibitors

Our Exhibitors on the day feature top industry leaders and supporters who are excited to meet with all our attendees and provide valuable advice and assistance. Take the opportunity to meet and connect with our industry experts, access trusted advice and discover the latest products and services on offer.

BOWELBABE FUND

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BUSINESS CLAN

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HOUSE OF COLOUR

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HSBC UK

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QUEEN BEE MARKETING AI

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Quilter Cheviot

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TechPixies

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The Return Hub

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WSI DIGITAL ADVISORS UK

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WSM PARTNERS LLP

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ZOCO NETWORKING

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Agenda

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08:00 - 09:00

Registration & Breakfast

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08:15 - 08:45

Speed Networking: Building Connections, Fast & Effectively

Kickstart your day with an energetic speed networking session hosted by Zoco Networking. Connect with like-minded professionals, exchange ideas, and build meaningful connections in this fast-paced and dynamic session.

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09:00 - 09:15

Welcome & Conference Opening

Sarah Austin, CEO & Founder of Really Helpful Club welcomes you with an uplifting introduction to set the tone for a day of inspiration and connection.

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09:15 - 09:40

Rewriting Your Story: Embracing Change with Confidence

Andrea McLean, TV presenter and Sunday Times Best Seller author of “This Girl Is On Fire” shares how changing lanes can be a transformative tool for personal and professional reinvention.
Any change is scary, but a loss of identity in your job or at home is terrifying—which is why learning to embrace it gives you the power to reclaim your own narrative to gain clarity, build resilience, and unlock new opportunities in life and work.

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09:40 - 10:10

Unlocking Your Future: Foundations for Personal & Business Success

Join us for an insightful panel discussion designed to help you build strong financial foundations for long-term success. Chaired by Sarah Austin (Founder – Really Helpful Club) this session brings together financial and business leaders Wendy Patterson (Managing Partner – WSM Partners) and Poppy Fox (Investment Manager – Quilter Cheviot).

Together, they’ll explore actionable strategies for personal and business growth, offering expert advice on managing wealth, navigating accountancy and legal frameworks, and creating a resilient structure for the future.

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10:10 - 10:45

Empowering Your Brand: Building Vision, Skills & Connections

Discover how to elevate your personal and professional brand through upskilling, networking, and shaping your vision. This session offers actionable strategies to develop your skills, grow your confidence, and build meaningful connections, empowering you to take your next step forward.

The panel is being chaired by Annie Rodgers (Founder – The Career Navigator) and features the following speakers: Joy Foster (Founder & CEO – TechPixies), Dominie Moss (Founder – The Return Hub) and Lucy Standing (Co-Founder – Brave Starts CIC)

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10:45 - 11:00

How to Network When You Hate Small Talk

Esther Stanhope, Founder at The Impact Guru shares practical tips and techniques to help you network effectively, even if you dread small talk. Discover how to make meaningful connections, overcome awkward moments, and build relationships with ease.

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11:00 - 11:20

Coffee Break & Open Networking

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11:20 - 11:30

Legacy & Impact: The Story of the Bowelbabe Fund

Join us for a special fireside chat as Sarah Austin (Founder – Really Helpful Club) sits down with the family of Dame Deborah James aka Bowelbabe to discuss her extraordinary legacy and the impact of the Bowelbabe Fund for Cancer Research UK.
They’ll explore how Deborah’s fearless legacy continues to fund groundbreaking research, raise awareness of bowel cancer, and inspire lasting change. We are also proud to announce the Bowelbabe Fund as our Charity Partner for 2025/26, strengthening our commitment to suppor its vital mission.

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11:30 - 12:15

From Kitchen Table to Global Iconic Brand - In Conversation with Emma Bridgewater

Hear from Emma Bridgewater as she shares her remarkable journey from kitchen table to building a beloved British brand. As the founder of the globally recognised Emma Bridgewater brand, which is celebrated for its iconic, hand-decorated homewares, Emma has an inspiring story of creativity, entrepreneurship, and resilience

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12:15 - 13:00

The Entrepreneur’s Journey: From Startup to Scaleup

Discover the dynamic journey of entrepreneurship as our panel explores how to turn ideas into impactful businesses, build resilience, and scale successfully. This session offers actionable strategies to overcome challenges, stay aligned with your vision, and leverage tools and networks to propel your business forward.

The panel is being chaired by Sam Cooper-Gray (Head of Market Strategy and Female Customer Propositions – HSBC UK) and features the following speakers: Catherine Ann Reid (Founder & CEO – doqit), Kim Palmer (Founder – Clementine), and Poppy Mardall (Founder – Poppy’s Funerals).

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13:00 - 14:00

Lunch & Open Networking

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14:00 - 14:30

Workshop Session 1

Choose from one of the 30-minute workshops hosted on:

“Empower Your Financial Future: Pensions Made Simple and Strategic”
Hosted by Poppy Fox from Quilter Cheviot

“Finance with Confidence: Business Accounting Essentials for Growth”
Hosted by Mike Spink from WSM Partners LLP

“Colour Your Confidence: Building a Personal Brand That Stands Out”
Hosted by Sandy Lancaster from House of Colour

“Why Age is an Asset: Building Your Brand at Any Stage of Life”
Hosted by Lucy Standing from Brave Starts CIC

“Create a Life You Love: Practical Tools for Growth and Success”
Hosted by Joy Foster from TechPixies

“Next-Level You: Building a Standout LinkedIn Presence”
Hosted by Celia Rizothanasi FCIM from Queen Bee Marketing AI

“The Art of Networking: Dos, Don’ts, and Game-Changing Strategies”
Hosted by Nick Blanchard from Zoco Networking

“Building a Business with Purpose: Create, Grow, and Thrive”
Hosted by Bernice Choo from Business Clan

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14:30 - 15:00

Workshop Session 2