Oxford Women In Politics Event

12.48.44pm GMT Wed 11th Nov 2009

On Tuesday 3rd November the Oxford Women in Politics Society at Oxford University hosted The Women's Network Seminar. Invited were a varied number of speakers from Women's Networks from different sectors such as politics, corporate and business.

Speakers-

1. Cllr Miranda Whitehead- Women Liberal Democrats

2. Tatjana Hine- British Association of Women Entrepreneurs

3. Clare Dobie- City Women's Network

4. Kath Coar- General Electric

5. Uta Campbell- J.P Morgan

6. Melanie Richards- KPMG

The seminar was based on a networking agenda as the main theme of the event was Women's Networks. There were introductions from each speaker about who they were and what their association did. This was followed by a question and answer discussion session between panel and audience- centred around diversity.

Once again women shortlists/ quotas was a major issue. Why are women not breaking through? It seems to be that confidence is a barrier. It is amazing the effects of just telling someone they can do it. It is this kind of support that Networks give to women and it a way of creating contacts and friends.

How do we go about creating change though? Cultural change is too slow and legislation even though it is a fast solution, is that a route we want to take?

What can be done to get women to reach towards higher positions? Once again support networks seem to be the answer along with mentors and coaching.

All in all it was a very enjoyable and informative session. Excellently put together by Katy Theobald and all of her team at OXWIP.