A Seat At The Table: Dinner Debate

Are you an aspiring leader working or studying in the Tees Valley? Join us for A Seat At The Table: Dinner Debate. This is a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded women and learn from a remarkable business leader.

A Seat At The Table exists to help more women step into leadership across the Tees Valley by making space, opening doors and creating real opportunities to lead. These events are designed to educate, inspire and connect women who want to take action and create change where it matters most.

Your Host

Dr Juna Sathian is an award-winning physicist, Associate Professor, educator, and elected Councillor whose work spans scientific innovation, community leadership and inclusive policy. She leads the North East’s only maser research group at Northumbria University and was part of the pioneering maser technology team at Imperial College London, whose breakthrough research was recognised with the Institute of Physics Michael Faraday Gold Medal.

At Northumbria, she has held major academic leadership roles - Programme Leader and later Head of Physics - where her leadership opened new space for women within the department’s senior academic structure. Her work focuses on enabling women in STEM to excel and progress, while strengthening research culture, student experience, and inclusive academic pathways.

Juna’s impact extends internationally through her research collaborations, global outreach, and representation at high-level forums. She works closely with schools and educators across the North East and the UK, encouraging girls to pursue science, leadership, and public service through accessible and inspiring STEM engagement.

Alongside her academic career, she serves as Cabinet Member for Climate and Transport in Newcastle and is the founder of the nationally recognised Clean Community, Clean World initiative, which mobilises families and young people in long-term environmental action. Her journey reflects a commitment to breaking barriers, supporting emerging leaders, and fostering communities where women and underrepresented groups can thrive.

How do I know it’s for me?

If you’re a woman or girl (aged 16+) working or studying in the Tees Valley with aspirations to lead in the business world, this Dinner Debate is for you.

With only 10 places available, it’s an exciting opportunity to join a focused group of ambitious women for meaningful conversation, fresh insight and real connection.

Please note

• Price: includes a one-course dinner - pre-order required (menu on order page).

• Dietary Requirements: please make sure you let us know when booking if you have any allergies or dietary requirements.

• Accessibility: if you require any reasonable adjustments, please let us know on your order form.

• Cancellation policy: tickets are non-refundable.