David Stringer-Lamarre, within his role as Chairman of the Institute of Directors, City of London was pleased to attend this event in support of International Women’s Day.

In his welcome address David spoke about the importance and benefit of diversity & inclusion for individuals, society and commerce. He noted that IoD City of London has been a strong voice within this business community regarding diversity of thought and the need to continue to address gender inequalities, including equal pay.

Dr Yvonne Thompson provided an insight into her work and spoke about her actiivities and roles. Yvonne founded the first Black Women Business Network and the European Federation of Black Business Owners. Yvonne has chaired many Public Sector Boards including the London Central Learning & Skills Council and the DTI’s Ethnic Minority Business Forum.

HE Winnie Kiap High Commissioner of Papua New Guinea provided an insight into the lives of women within Papua New Guinea and provided some thoughts about the differences between women’s lives in the UK and Papua New Guinea.

Mei Sim Lai OBE DL provided the closing comments and thanked the many people for attending.

The event involved eight organisations: IoD City of London, Women in the Livery section of City Livery Club, Lady Masters’ Association, City of London, IWF UK (International Women’s Forum), Mulan Foundation Network, PAWA (Pan Asian Women’s Association), EWEC (Eurasian Women Energy Club) & Imperial Women’s Network (Imperial College London).

Image: Mei Sim Lai OBE DL, Dr Yvonne Thompson CBE & David Stringer-Lamarre