FT Forums

Meet Rumyana Petrova MSc, a member of the #FTWomenInBusinessForum from the Financial Times' own cohort, who shares what inspires her: "Marketing’s blend of creativity, data, and strategy excites me, and I thrive on collaborating with others to push boundaries. Most of all, I’m motivated by the mentors and peers who have supported my journey, fuelling my ambition to lead with authenticity and purpose." What’s one piece of advice you’d share with future women leaders? "Be yourself, be bold, and take pride in who you are. Own your voice and trust your perspective. Leadership isn’t about fitting into a mould—it’s about bringing your unique strengths to the table with confidence." What does being part of the FT Women in Business Forum mean to you? "It’s an opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with inspiring women from diverse industries. A space to share experiences, gain insights on key topics, and support one another in navigating challenges. More than just a learning platform, it’s a community that fosters meaningful conversations and empowers women to lead with confidence." Learn more and get involved at https://lnkd.in/gcePknb #IWD2025 #careersuccess #ftwomen #womeninbusiness

Introducing Cassandra Chinkin, a member of the #FTWomenInBusinessForum from Shell, who shares what inspires her as a leader: "The women who went first, and didn’t break through the glass ceiling and pull up the ladder behind them, but as well as facing the challenges of going first, still made the time and effort to support and help the next generations." Her advice: "Don’t believe all gains are immutable and that we don’t need feminism any more. We do and we all need to be a part of that, not free riders on other people’s efforts." Cassandra says that being part of the FT Women in Business Forum provides her with engagement and community. Learn more and get involved at https://lnkd.in/gcePknb #IWD2025 #careersuccess #ftwomen #womeninbusiness

Next up today is Alejandra Nieves, a member of the #FTWomenInBusinessForum from Macmillan Education. "I'm inspired by the stories of women who challenge the status quo, who uplift others, and create spaces where authenticity and vulnerability are valued." One piece of advice Alejandra would share with future women leaders: "Remember that your journey is as much about lifting others as it is about personal achievement. Your legacy will be measured not just by your personal success, but by the number of lives you've positively impacted." "I’ve been part of this forum for over a year, and it’s given me different opportunities to learn from the experiences of women who are shaping the future of business. I’ve had the chance to share insights and to contribute to meaningful conversations that drive change. It has been a really meaningful experience." Learn more and get involved at https://lnkd.in/gcePknb #IWD2025 #careersuccess #ftwomen #womeninbusiness

Meet Nada Nabil, a member of the #FTWomenInBusinessForum from Springer Nature, who shares what inspires her as a woman leader: "The courage and determination of women who push boundaries and redefine what is possible. Seeing how women lift each other up and create opportunities for future generations is what drives me every day." Her advice for future women leaders is: "Your perspective is valuable—do not be afraid to own it. Speak up, take on challenges, and trust in your ability to lead. And remember, success is not just about individual achievements but about paving the way for others." What does being part of the FT Women in Business Forum mean to you? "It is an honour to be part of a community that celebrates, supports, and empowers women leaders. This forum is a reminder that we are stronger together and that real change happens when we share knowledge and uplift one another." Learn more and get involved at https://lnkd.in/gcePknb #IWD2025 #careersuccess #ftwomen #womeninbusiness

Today we would like to introduce you to Clotilde de La Noue, a member of the #FTWomenInBusinessForum from the Financial Times' own cohort. "I’m inspired by the chance to make a real impact—not just in performance marketing but in the people I work with. Seeing more women step into leadership roles and challenge the status quo is incredibly motivating. I love working alongside brilliant, ambitious women who push boundaries and lift each other up. For me, leadership isn’t just about driving results, it’s about creating space for others to grow and thrive." A piece of advice that Clotilde would share with future women leaders: "Back yourself. You are just as deserving as anyone else, so don’t let doubt—or anyone else—make you feel small. Surround yourself with people who push you, support you, and inspire you to grow. Say yes to opportunities, even when they feel intimidating, because that’s where real growth happens. And most importantly, use your voice—your perspective matters, and the right people will recognise your value." "Being part of the FT Women in Business Forum means being part of something bigger than just me—a community of like-minded women who are passionate about driving change. It’s an incredible space to learn from others, challenge my own perspectives, and open my mind to different stories and experiences. Every event leaves me feeling inspired, energised, and more motivated than ever to keep pushing for progress." Learn more and get involved at https://lnkd.in/gcePknb #IWD2025 #careersuccess #ftwomen #womeninbusiness

Meet Louise Wallace from CMS UK who shares what being part of the #FTWomenInBusinessForum means to her: "It is a platform to contribute to meaningful conversations across sectors on real issues for women. Being part of this forum allows me to learn from and support fellow women leaders as we work toward a more equitable and dynamic corporate world." As a woman leader, Louise says she is "inspired by the resilience, innovation, and leadership of women across industries who challenge the status quo and pave the way for future generations. Seeing women working together to break barriers, address unique issues and redefine success fuels my passion for fostering inclusive leadership in the legal and business world." Her advice for future women leaders: "In addition to having a love of what you do, own your ambition unapologetically. Surround yourself with strong mentors and allies, advocate for your ideas, and never underestimate the power of confidence and perseverance in shaping your career." Learn more and get involved at https://lnkd.in/gcePknb #IWD2025 #careersuccess #ftwomen #womeninbusiness

Next up today is Anca Pusca, PhD, another member of the #FTWomenInBusinessForum from Springer Nature, who shares what inspires her as a female leader: "I often find inspiration in people’s creativity particularly when facing obstacles: it’s those workaround solutions that too often aren’t visible or properly recognised that I find fascinating and have taught me to always keep my ear to the ground." Her advice is to "lead with not over others. The best part of progressing in your career is looking around and seeing others do the same alongside you. Be the kind of leader that anyone feels comfortable approaching with a new idea. "I’ve loved the community created around this forum, working with my FT mentor had been an absolute treasure, and I always make sure to sign up for upcoming talks and events – it brightens up my calendar and keeps me learning." Learn more and get involved at https://lnkd.in/gcePknb #IWD2025 #careersuccess #ftwomen #womeninbusiness

Meet Gina M. Cheselka, a member of the #FTWomenInBusinessForum from Springer Nature. "The resilience and creativity of women who break barriers and drive change inspire me every day. Their stories and lessons help me to lead with empathy and innovation." One piece of advice Gina would share with future women leaders: "Don’t be afraid to be vulnerable. Believe in your unique strengths and don't be afraid to voice your ideas even if you think no one is listening. Your perspective is valuable, and your leadership will pave the way for others." "Being part of the FT Women in Business Forum is an incredible opportunity to learn from and connect with trailblazing women. It empowers me to bring back insights that foster growth and inclusivity at Springer Nature." Learn more and get involved at https://lnkd.in/gcePknb #IWD2025 #careersuccess #ftwomen #womeninbusiness

Meet Gosia Wisniewska, a member of the #FTWomeninBusinessForum from Shell, who shares what inspires her as a woman leader: "The power of sisterhood – women supporting, uplifting and advocating for each other. When we come together, we break barriers and create opportunities that drive real change." Her advice for future women leaders? “Embrace your strengths and the unique value you bring as a woman. True leadership comes form authenticity, not from adapting to fit someone else’s mould.” “Being part of the FT Women in Business Forum means learning from incredible women across industries and gaining inspiration from rich discussions. It’s space for shared experiences, fresh perspectives and collective growth”. Learn more and get involved at https://lnkd.in/gcePknb #IWD2025 #careersuccess #ftwomen #womeninbusiness

We're looking forward to this week’s #FTWomeninBusinessForum event on managing a multigenerational workforce! With multiple generations working side by side, organisations face new challenges—and opportunities—in leadership, communication, and collaboration. This session will explore how to harness generational diversity, foster intergenerational cooperation, and create inclusive teams where every employee feels valued.