Be Your Authentic Self

About this event

Kindly hosted by Higgs LLP and in partnership with University of Wolverhampton, this session brings together women from across the region to explore what it truly means to be their authentic self - especially when challenges arise.

Following networking, lunch and a welcome from Lucy Rook, Chair of our Women in Leadership Steering Group, Jessica Shields of Jessica Shields Coaching will facilitate an interactive presentation session exploring:

• How to show up as your authentic self in professional environments
• Why you don’t always need to “put on a face” when things get tough
• Healthy, constructive ways to lean on your professional network
• Strategies for building confidence, resilience, and genuine leadership presence

To build on these insights, the event will then move into a panel discussion and audience Q&A featuring:

Jessica Shields
Jess is a West Midlands-based coach, trainer, and founder of Jessica Shields Coaching Ltd, with over 10 years’ experience as a female business owner. Since 2015, she has worked across sectors including education, healthcare, the NHS, and not-for-profits. A Master Practitioner in NLP and MHFA England Instructor Member, Jess is known for her compassionate, positive approach, empowering women to build sustainable, fulfilling businesses with confidence and authenticity.

Sophie Wardell 
Sophie Wardell is People Director at Higgs LLP, where she leads the firm’s people strategy, aligning talent, culture and business performance. An MCIPD-qualified HR leader and workplace mediator, she is known for her practical, human-centred approach to leadership and her commitment to building inclusive, high-performing environments. Sophie is a strong advocate for mental health, neurodiversity and equitable workplaces, and regularly shares candid insights on leadership, confidence and culture with a wide professional audience.

Jeni Sellick 
With over 26 years in the flexible workspace industry, Jeni Sellick has spent her career breathing new life into buildings across the UK, transforming spaces into thriving business communities. Now rooted in the Black Country, she brings that same passion for people and place to everything she does. A connector at heart, she believes the best environments don't just house businesses - they grow them. And if you spot her in the room, you'll likely recognise her by her cowboy boots.

Lucy Rook 
Lucy Rook is Managing Director of BlackRook Academy, delivering both funded and commercial training that equips people with real-world digital skills and routes into employment. With a background in media and a passion for doing things differently, Lucy champions an industry-led approach that challenges traditional education. She is Chair of the Black Country Chamber’s Women in Leadership Steering Group and a Trustee of The Way Youth Zone, driving opportunity, confidence and impact across the region.
 

This session is designed to be supportive, reflective, and empowering - ideal for women at any stage of their career journey.