Empowered Voices: Founders Edition

Join us on Thursday 4th December at Department, Leeds Dock for an evening that celebrates the bold, the brave, and the beginnings of something extraordinary.

This isn’t your average panel night, it’s where honest stories meet real inspiration. Expect unfiltered insights, laughter, and the kind of advice you won’t find in a textbook. You’ll leave with new ideas, new contacts, and maybe even the confidence to finally start that thing you’ve been dreaming about.

Our panel features four incredible founders who’ve all built businesses with purpose at their core:

Elly Nettleton, Co-Founder of Boost Talent, leading the way in ethical tech recruitment and championing women in business.
Gina Buckle, Founder of Hoot Copy, the queen of brand voice and making marketing fun again!

Natalie Sarabia-Johnston, Founder of Constructive Futures and Southgate & Sarabia Architects, empowering young people to break into construction and chase the opportunities they deserve.

Rico Naylor, Founder of CRE Insider, building bridges between property leaders and occupiers to make the commercial real estate world more connected and human.

From 5pm, we’ll ease into the evening with networking (and a drink or two 🍸), followed by an inspiring panel discussion and Q&A.

In true Empowered style, expect a room full of genuine energy, shared experiences, and people who just get it. This is your space to connect, learn, and be reminded that every great business starts with a single brave step.