On the 18th of June 2025, I had the incredible privilege of attending a landmark event at the House of Commons, where the iconic “What Women Want” movement was relaunched. This movement, founded by the unstoppable Lynne Franks OBE thirty years ago, gathered a community of strong, passionate women from across the globe to continue the work of creating a fairer, more equitable world. The event not only marked a significant milestone in this legacy but was a reminder of the immense power we have when we come together with shared purpose and determination.
As I reflect on the day, I can’t help but feel a sense of awe and gratitude for being part of this extraordinary gathering of change-makers, pioneers, and leaders. The relaunch of this movement at the House of Commons wasn’t just a celebration; it was a call to action—a call to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible for women everywhere.
The Power of Collective Action: A Celebration of Women
There is something profoundly special about being in a room full of individuals who share a common vision. The 18th of June was one such day—a day when women from all walks of life and industries came together, united by the question that has resonated for 30 years: What do women want today?
As I looked around the room, I was surrounded by trailblazers, innovators, and advocates who have dedicated their lives to breaking down barriers for women. Lynne Franks, the driving force behind this movement, has always been a beacon of change. Her dedication to empowering women through equity, diversity, and inclusion continues to inspire countless individuals worldwide. Alongside Lynne, were leaders such as Emma Lady, Amy Kington, Catherine Frankpitt, Miriam Kennet, and Dame Kelly Holmes, to name just a few. The collective energy in the room was palpable, as we all shared in this pivotal moment.
But the day wasn’t just about reflection—it was about action. As Lynne Franks herself said, “This isn’t just about looking back; it’s about listening, leading, and acting.” It was a powerful reminder that true change occurs when we come together not only to acknowledge the challenges but also to take steps to overcome them.
Reflecting on the Past and Looking Toward the Future
The question “What do women want today?” is not only a simple yet radical question but one that demands continuous introspection and action. The world has changed dramatically since the inception of the “What Women Want” movement, yet many of the issues women face today remain the same. Gender inequality, pay disparities, underrepresentation in leadership positions, and barriers to education and career advancement are just a few of the challenges that women continue to face.
The relaunch of the movement at such a pivotal moment was timely. In a world that often feels overwhelming and disjointed, this gathering provided a much-needed boost of hope and inspiration. The speakers at the event didn’t just talk about the challenges; they spoke about the solutions. They didn’t just reflect on the past; they showed us how to keep moving forward, in unity, toward a better future for women globally.
One of the key themes that emerged was collaboration. It was clear that in order to create real, lasting change, we must work together. The collective wisdom of the women in the room demonstrated that true success comes not from isolated efforts, but from collaboration and solidarity. We heard calls for more compassion, care, and collaboration—values that are increasingly needed in today’s fast-paced and often divided world.
The Role of Women in Science, Innovation, and Technology
As we look to the future, one of the most pressing concerns that emerged during the event was the need for more women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). In a world driven by innovation, it’s vital that women have a seat at the table when it comes to shaping the future of technology and science.
The importance of removing the barriers that prevent women and girls from entering these fields was highlighted. The movement made it clear that we need to create more opportunities for women to see science as a space where they can thrive. Equity isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a necessity. If we are to address the world’s most pressing challenges, we need a diverse range of voices and perspectives, especially in the fields that drive technological and scientific progress.
During the event, I felt especially inspired by the conversations about how we can actively remove these barriers, from providing more educational resources for young girls interested in STEM to advocating for policies that promote diversity in research and development. We must ensure that women and girls not only have access to these fields but are supported throughout their careers to reach their fullest potential.
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: More Than Just a Goal
The conversation around equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) was also central to the discussions during the event. EDI isn’t just a goal—it’s a principle that must be woven into the fabric of every organisation, every community, and every conversation. It’s about recognising the inherent value of every individual, regardless of their gender, race, background, or identity.
As we heard from various speakers, achieving equity requires a concerted effort at all levels—whether it’s in policy, corporate culture, or everyday interactions. Companies and organisations must prioritise inclusivity and create spaces where women can thrive, where their voices are heard, and where their contributions are recognised. It was inspiring to hear stories from women who have risen above the barriers, whether in corporate leadership or in grassroots activism, and the common thread was the commitment to bringing others along.
One powerful message that resonated with me was the importance of compassionate leadership. It’s not just about making decisions that impact the bottom line; it’s about recognising the people behind those decisions and ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed. Compassion in leadership is about fostering an environment where individuals feel supported, valued, and empowered to make a difference.
A Call to Action: Carrying the Torch Forward
As I stood in the House of Commons, I was filled with a profound sense of pride and responsibility. The movement that began with Lynne Franks 30 years ago is still going strong, and its message remains as important today as it was in the past. The gathering wasn’t just about celebrating the progress made—it was about recognising how far we still have to go.
What Women Want is not just a movement—it’s a call to action. It’s a reminder that change doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It requires the collective effort of individuals who are willing to challenge the status quo, to speak up, and to make a tangible difference. This event wasn’t just a moment in time; it was a catalyst for continued change.
As we look ahead, the next steps are clear. The movement will continue to build momentum, especially as What Women Want heads to Bristol later this year. I’m excited to continue being part of this powerful legacy and to carry the torch forward alongside Lynne Franks and other remarkable women in her network.
Together, we will keep asking the big questions, we will keep listening, and most importantly, we will keep acting. Because the future we want is one where every woman has the agency, the opportunity, and the support to shape her own destiny.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Change
Reflecting on my experience at the House of Commons, I am reminded of the immense power that lies in unity. The legacy of What Women Want is not just about a single moment; it’s about a continuous movement to elevate women worldwide, to challenge the systems that hold us back, and to create a future where all women, regardless of their background or identity, can thrive.
I am incredibly honoured to have been part of this moment, and I am committed to ensuring that this movement continues to inspire, empower, and create meaningful change for women everywhere. This isn’t just about us—it’s about the generations of women who will follow and the legacy we leave for them. Together, we can continue to shape the future we want.
