A leadership experience where you don’t just attend—you shape it.
RISE is where stories ignite action, connections spark change, and women across every sector rise—together. From policy shapers to grassroots founders, educators to engineers, RISE is your place to be heard, to belong, and to lead.
If you’d like to speak at RISE 2026, share your expertise, or propose a workshop, click here to register your interest.
We welcome aligned partners to help shape and power this movement. Click here to explore sponsorship opportunities.
Introducing the RISE Pitching Zone
Where women’s ideas meet opportunity.
At RISE 2026, we are unveiling a bold new feature: the RISE Pitching Zone, home of The RISE Challenge.
Here, innovators, entrepreneurs, and changemakers will step into the spotlight — pitching their vision in front of leaders, investors, and peers. From cutting-edge technologies to social change solutions, this is the stage for ideas that can shape tomorrow.
Who will rise to the challenge?
Why RISE Is Different
RISE isn’t another event where you sit back and listen. This is a space where your voice matters—where you shape the dialogue, not just observe it. Every conversation is interactive. Every panel is a collaboration. Every room is built for real exchange.
It’s where you’ll find decision-makers, potential collaborators, new clients, and long-term allies—right beside you. It’s where ideas become opportunities. Where confidence returns. Where women find their people, their purpose, and their next move.
Be a Speaker, Host a Panel, or Lead a Workshop
RISE 2026 invites bold voices and fresh perspectives. We’re looking for women who don’t just want a platform—they want to create one for others too.
If you have a powerful idea, a lived experience, a new solution, or a burning question—join us. Whether you want to deliver a keynote, lead a workshop, or host a panel that inspires deep dialogue, this is your chance to shape the future of leadership across sectors.
We welcome contributors from business, education, sustainability, tech, social change, the arts, health, and beyond.
‘I felt seen, heard, and energised — RISE is unforgettable.’
RISE 2025 attendee
What We Achieved at RISE 2025
RISE 2025 wasn’t just an event—it was a catalyst.
Leaders from across the UK and around the world came together for a day filled with powerful panels, sector-specific roundtables, and curated 1:1 sessions with consuls, CEOs, and funders.
We launched our Future Leaders Experience, offering work placements and mentorship to young women ready to step into their potential.
It was a day where ideas turned into partnerships, stories became solutions, and a new community of action-takers was born.
Who Should Attend
RISE is for women who lead—and those who want to.
Whether you’re running a business, teaching in a classroom, innovating in science, shaping public policy, or launching your first idea—RISE welcomes you.
It’s also for young women ready to find their path, and for organisations that believe in investing in women’s leadership and equity.
If you’re ready to grow, connect, collaborate, or simply be re-inspired—RISE is the room for you.
Why You Should Attend
Because RISE is not just about inspiration—it’s about transformation.
You’ll leave with more than just ideas. You’ll leave with action steps, a stronger network, and a renewed sense of what’s possible. It’s the place where confidence is restored, vision is sharpened, and new futures are imagined.
And more importantly, it’s the kind of room that doesn’t just see you—it celebrates you.
‘So relevant and rich — I booked mentoring right after this!’
RISE 2025 attendee
2025 RISE Feedback
What to Expect at RISE 2026
⚡ Hands-On Workshops – Develop practical leadership & business skills
💼 Mentoring Clinics – One-to-ones and career circles with leaders
🌍 Global Speakers – Real voices from around the world, virtual & live
🧭 HR & Workforce Forum – Strategy meets equity in recruitment & culture
👩🏽💻 Tech, Trade & Transformation – AI, finance, innovation
💬 Sector Panels – From law to education, insight that shifts thinking
‘RISE gave us access to extraordinary talent and visibility where it matters.’
RISE 2025 attendee
Join the Movement – Be First to Hear
Partner With Purpose
Join forward-thinking organisations like Slater Heelis, Aldshaw, The Department for Business & Trade, GM Chamber, Stanmore and Sixth Form Colleges in shaping the future of women’s leadership.
Who Should Attend
Women leaders & professionals
Students & emerging leaders
HR, legal, and corporate partners
Colleges & universities
Entrepreneurs & creatives
Government & public sector
Meet the RISE Conference Director
🎙️ Meet Sandra McManus, RISE 2026 Conference Director
With a career spanning over 20 years in education and leadership, Sandra McManus brings a rare blend of wisdom, warmth, and strategic clarity to her role as Conference Director for RISE 2026.
Formerly Deputy Head of Bolton Sixth Form College, Sandra has mentored and inspired generations of students and educators. Now working as an Executive Coach and Consultant, she partners with individuals and organisations to unlock leadership potential, build confidence, and foster meaningful growth.
Sandra is known for creating calm, purposeful spaces where people feel heard—and where powerful conversations lead to real outcomes. Her deep-rooted belief in equity, empathy, and courageous leadership sits at the heart of the RISE experience.
As RISE 2026 Conference Director, Sandra ensures that every moment is intentional, inclusive, and impactful. She is the steady force behind the scenes—crafting a space where women don’t just gather, but grow.