“I’m lucky to work in an agency full of incredible women, and together with the wider network I’ve built over the years, they are one of the greatest assets I have.

“It’s easy to operate in isolation, forgetting that who you surround yourself with matters. Your network can be one of the biggest drivers for your success, from the support they give and advice, to the lessons you’ve learnt through them and their experiences.

“So while I’ve never had one “official” female mentor, I’ve got something I think is even more powerful, a group of exceptional women who’ve pushed me, challenged me, and shaped my career in ways I could never have done alone.

“Women like Zarah Al‑Kudcy, who I’ve known since university. Watching her climb, grow, and own her space has been a constant reminder that we can do this – that we belong here – and that we’re absolutely capable of more than we give ourselves credit for.

“And then there are the incredible women I had the privilege of hiring early on, Kim Broadbent and Charlie Hugill, who quickly showed me what excellence truly looks like.

“Their support has made more of a difference than they probably realise. Even now, as we all work in different organisations, I still turn to them for perspective when I need it most.

“This International Women’s Day, I’m reminded that as women, we can be each other’s greatest advocates and, sometimes, just by seeing another woman succeed, we can be inspired to follow in their footsteps.

“Peer support is everything, and I’m constantly inspired by the incredible women I’m lucky to be surrounded by.”