Get to know our Women in Leadership (WIL) Initiative!

17 Jun 2025

Published in: Black Country Chamber of Commerce News
Our Black Country Women in Leadership Network is a growing community established to inspire, guide and connect women in business.

At the Black Country Chamber of Commerce, we’re committed to making sure your voice is heard and highlighting the value of connection to raise your profile. In May 2019, we established ‘Black Country Women in Leadership’, a network dedicated to sharing experiences and addressing inequalities women face in business.

Every year, we work hard to raise awareness of our inspiring network to build confidence and ambition for women in the business community. In this blog, you’ll understand the work we do and the upcoming events we have lined up for you!

We will discuss:

  • The importance of Women in Leadership.
  • Discovering the Steering Group.
  • How you can get involved.
  • Hear from Lucy, Chair of our Steering Group.
  • Hear from our partner for 2025/26


The importance of Women in Leadership


Raising awareness of barriers women face in the business world

It’s encouraging to see the ongoing work to break inequalities in business, but there is still more work to be done to ensure we can strive for parity across the region. One of our key aims is to host events throughout the year that bring people together to share ideas and find solutions to do business right.

We’re proud to have the opportunity to create impactful events that keep you informed and engaged, especially around International Women’s Day, a celebration that acknowledges the achievements of women from all over the world and raising awareness on the issues still at play.

In today’s society, there are many outdated stereotypes that we must break and this requires dedication. Our work is about helping to build resilience and breaking down limiting beliefs that may hold people back.

Making sure your voice is heard

Any woman in business knows how difficult it can be to share views with confidence; it can lead to overthinking and self-doubt. The Women in Leadership Network provides a platform to share your views, ideas and experiences, there is a place for you to be heard and even inspire others to reach their full potential.

Our sessions are open, relaxed and welcoming, giving you the perfect environment to meet new people, gain a fresh perspective and possibly find support for any challenges you may be facing. It’s a space that combats isolation, instils motivation and resilience when you need it most.

We welcome women in business at every stage of life, whether you’re just starting out or in a senior leadership role. You have the opportunity to network with others and grow your network.

Inspire the future generations of women in business

We all want to live a life to remember and leave a legacy that inspires future generations. This network is about doing just that, helping women and young girls feel empowered to achieve their goals and be their authentic selves.

At the Chamber, we want every woman reading this to recognise her own power and to feel confident using it. That’s why we are calling on more women across the Black Country to get involved and help build a strong community of women who will always be there to uplift and empower others.

Discovering the Steering Group


Our network continues to thrive thanks to the brilliant members of our Steering Group. They help guide our direction, support event planning, and shape the vision of Women in Leadership.

Meet the Steering Group:Eight of the Women in Leadership in front of a white wall with the Black Country Chamber of Commerce logo. From left to right we have: Vikki Potts, Claire Lawton, Silvia Parnaby, Lucy Rook, Helen Sargeant, Amy Brokenshire, Debra Lawrence, Lynn Wyke

  • Lucy Rook – Founder & Managing Director at BlackRook Academy (Chair of the Steering Group)
  • Lynn Wyke - Senior Business Development Manager at BCRS Business Loans.
  • Amy Brokenshire - Partner and Head of Employment at George Green LLP.
  • Silvia Parnaby – Head of Sales at Weston Park Enterprises Ltd.
  • Helen Sargeant - Associate Director Knowledge Exchange & Enterprise at the University of Wolverhampton.
  • Vikki Potts - Head of University of Wolverhampton Business School and Wolverhampton Law School.
  • Debra Lawrence – Sales and Marketing Director at Lawrence Cleaning Ltd.
  • Claire Lawton – Managing Director at Acorn Support Limited.
  • Lesley Holland – CEO at Juniper Training.
  • Kim Whiting – Strategic Director at SIPS Education Ltd.
  • Olivia Mellor - Senior Relationship Manager at NatWest Group.
  • Louise Fall - Principal and CEO at the City of Wolverhampton College.

Hear from Lucy


As mentioned earlier, Lucy is the Chair of our Women in Leadership Steering Group, and her work involves overseeing the activities align with the aims and objectives we set. Her role involves directing the activities each year.

We asked her to share her views on her role and why it’s importance to advocate and support women in business:

“Being Chair of the Women in Leadership Steering Group is a huge privilege. I’m proud to work alongside a group of women who lead with purpose, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to lifting others. Across the Black Country, we’re seeing more and more brilliant female leaders making an impact — and this group provides a space to connect, challenge one another, and champion the next generation.


“One of the most valuable aspects of this programme has been the chance to connect and collaborate with each other — sharing ideas and negotiating challenges. We've also been fortunate to welcome some high-profile, motivational guest speakers at our events, who’ve brought powerful insights and sparked brilliant conversations.


“Another highlight has been launching our Guiding Stars initiative, which helps inspire the next generation of local female leaders. It’s a reminder that leadership isn’t just about titles — it’s about showing up, being visible, and creating a culture where others feel empowered to grow.


“My advice to women in business? Be brave enough to back yourself, even if you don’t feel “ready.” Surround yourself with people who will support you, challenge you, and help you hold on to your values — because the best leadership is rooted in transparency, trust, and a shared commitment to something bigger than ourselves."

Hear from our partner for 2025/26


This year, we are partnering with the University of Wolverhampton, and we asked Vikki Potts to share her views on partnering with the Women in Leadership network and why this is important:

Why did you decide to partner with the Black Country Chamber of Commerce?

“The University of Wolverhampton is proud to partner with the Black Country Chamber of Commerce on the Women in Leadership initiative, a collaboration rooted in our shared commitment to empowering and supporting women across all stages of their leadership journey.


“We recognised the need to create meaningful spaces where women in business can connect, share experiences, and access the tools and confidence needed to lead with impact. This partnership allows us to amplify the voices of women in our region, challenge barriers, and inspire future leaders.”

Advice/guidance for women in business:
“My advice to women in business is simple: believe in your value, take up space unapologetically, and support others along the way. Leadership is not a solo endeavour – it’s a collective movement. Surround yourself with mentors, allies, and a community that encourages your growth. Together, we can shape a business landscape that is more inclusive, resilient, and representative of the diverse talent our region has to offer.”


How you can get involved


I’m sure you’ve seen our recent social posts around ‘The Career Kaleidoscope’, the first part of our two-part series titled ‘The lifecycle of a woman in business’. This event is all about showing that success looks different to everyone and it can happen at any stage, at any age!

To prove this, we ‘ll be joined by three incredible women who are ready to discuss how they’ve taken bold steps in their careers:

Gabrielle LawrenceThe image has two silhouettes of women from a side profile on the left, with the text "Women in Leadership presents, The Career Kaleidoscope, Hear from our speakers:" There are three white boxes on the right and has circle images of each speaker with their name and short bio. The text reads from left to right 'Gabby Lawrence, Highly Specialised Cardiac Specialist, Paramjit Nagra, Co-Founder of Crazy Gin, Wendy Garcarz, Futurist, Business Strategist & Author"

A highly specialised cardiac physiologist with a First-Class Honours in Healthcare Science (Cardiac Physiology) and BHRS accreditation, her passion shifted to cardiology during work experience at a cardiac rehab centre. Leading Gabrielle to train and qualify through the NHS Practitioner Training Programme. Currently based at Good Hope Hospital, she is focusing on education, training, and policy compliance, while mentoring junior staff and driving improvements in patient care.

Paramjit Nagra

Paramjit Nagra is a British-Indian entrepreneur, brand strategist, and storyteller. She co-founded Crazy Gin, a bold spirits brand launched by Harvey Nichols, known for blending culture and rebellion in every pour. Today, she helps underestimated founders and creatives turn their story into strategy — building brands that feel as true on the inside as they look on the outside.

Wendy Garcarz

Wendy Garcarz is a dynamic force at 65, supporting SMEs with sharp insight, crafting twisty espionage novels, and championing purposeful living and enterprise in later life. Whether she’s mentoring entrepreneurs or plotting fictional betrayals, her energy is infectious and her storytelling compelling. Age is no barrier—Wendy proves that life after 60 can be the most creative, impactful chapter yet.

It's an event you don’t want to miss! Especially if you are looking for guidance, support during a career change or wanting to network with like-minded women in business.

The event will be hosted at the Black Country Living Museum on the 26th June 2025. There is a place for everyone, you can book your place here.


Conclusion


Black Country Women in Leadership is your chance to grow your network, be part of a supportive community and break down barriers that still exist in business.

Our mission is to ensure every woman who attends our events leaves feeling empowered, more confident and ready to take on their obstacles.

By working together, we can inspire the next generation to continue this legacy of strong, remarkable women who lead boldly, authentically, and without limits.

Are you ready to define success?

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