There are moments that remind us exactly why RISE exists.
Not because of the stage, the speakers or the programme itself, but because of what happens when the right people come together, share their experiences and choose to act.
One of those moments unfolded at RISE 2026.
Paralympic swimmer Grace Robinson took to the stage to speak about the reality behind elite sport. Alongside the dedication, discipline and countless hours of training, she spoke honestly about one of the greatest challenges many athletes face: securing the financial support needed to continue competing.
It was a deeply personal story, told with honesty and quiet determination. Like many in the room, Jackie Hyde, Managing Director of Stanmore Insurance Brokers, listened carefully. Grace wasn’t asking for sympathy; she was sharing the reality of pursuing excellence when funding is often one of the biggest barriers.
What happened next is exactly what RISE was created to encourage.
Moved by Grace’s story and inspired by her commitment, Jackie and the team at Stanmore Insurance Brokers made the decision to sponsor Grace’s swimming journey. It was a gesture of belief, encouragement and practical support that will help Grace continue doing what she loves.
Grace’s mother later shared these words:
“Funding is so hard to obtain. This has really boosted her belief in herself. The sponsorship was awarded after Grace spoke at the She Inspires RISE event, highlighting the challenges for athletes.”
That sentence says more than any statistics ever could.
For Grace, the sponsorship provides practical support at a time when every opportunity matters. More importantly, it reinforces something equally valuable: the confidence that comes from knowing someone believes in your potential.
For Jackie and Stanmore Insurance Brokers, it reflects a style of leadership rooted in action. Leadership is not only about running successful organisations; it is about recognising talent, responding with purpose and creating opportunities that make a genuine difference.
For She Inspires, this story beautifully illustrates the purpose of RISE.
We have always believed that when people from different sectors come together, something powerful can happen. Conversations create understanding. Understanding builds relationships. Relationships create opportunities. Sometimes those opportunities are partnerships. Sometimes they lead to new careers or collaborations. Occasionally, they change the direction of someone’s journey.
This was one of those moments.
It also demonstrates something much bigger than a single sponsorship. It brings to life the She Inspires Women’s Economic Agency Framework.
Grace’s story was recognised.
Leadership responded.
An opportunity was created.
That is the journey we strive to create through every She Inspires initiative, not simply celebrating achievement, but creating pathways that help people move forward. We often say that the future isn’t built in silos. It’s built together.
At RISE 2026, that belief became reality. And we hope it will be the first of many RISE Stories that show what is possible when conversations become opportunities.
RECOGNITION. LEADERSHIP. OPPORTUNITY.
Building pathways to strengthen Women’s Economic Agency.
