By Ellie Edwards, Associate Publisher, RMA and co-founder of The Advisory Collective
The theme of this year’s International Women’s Day – Give to Gain is a powerful reminder that progress doesn’t just happen by accident. It happens because people choose to give.
In our industry, access is everything. Access to knowledge. Access to networks. Access to opportunity. And far too often, that access isn’t the same for everyone.
Throughout my career, I’ve seen how transformational it can be when someone gives you their time, their insight, or their belief. A simple act can shift confidence and unlock opportunities.
This belief is what underpins my work beyond the commercial world.
As a trustee of Digilearning, I’ve seen first-hand the power of giving young people access to digital skills, mentorship and industry exposure they might otherwise never receive. When we give early-stage talent visibility into our industry, we’re not just supporting individuals; we are also helping to future-proof our sector.
Through Digital Leading Ladies, the focus is different but equally important. We have been creating space, visibility and commercial opportunities for senior women who are already within the industry. Helping to amplify voices and build confidence at a senior level. We’re also a great ‘safe space’ and offer support where necessary, underpinned of a deep understanding of the industry that we’re in, and the challenges that can sometimes be faced.
Both initiatives are rooted in the same principle:
When we give knowledge, we gain innovation.
When we give opportunity, we gain leadership.
When we give access, we gain stronger ecosystems.
And that’s why International Women’s Day matters.
We (The Advisory Collective) launched Digital Women in collaboration with New Digital Age in 2022 to give a platform for women in the industry and to amplify their voices.
The IWD Lunch has been a staple in the calendar; we’ve had some amazing speakers over the years sharing stories that have resonated with the audience, and this year’s lunch, featuring a keynote by Jamie Klingler, co- founder of Reclaim These Streets and a powerful advocate of police reform, promises to be no different.
The lunch gives us an opportunity to gather with female colleagues and counterparts, as well as the men who are champions and allies. It’s a space filled with energy that helps foster connections.
If you are looking to expand your network and your thinking, you should attend.
If you are a company serious about representation, leadership, and investing in future talent, get a table and send your team.
And if, like me, you believe in building an industry that gives more than it takes, you need to make sure you’re in the room.
Book your tickets at https://newdigitalage.co/nda-events/iwd-digital-women-lunch-2026/
