Banking on Change: Breakfast with Anne Boden MBE

Thursday 6th November 2025 | 8:30am - 11:00am | APEX, Reading

We're celebrating Smart Works Reading's 10th anniversary with something special - an exclusive networking breakfast with Anne Boden MBE, founder of Starling Bank and author of Female Founders' Playbook.

Anne didn't just start a bank - she revolutionised an entire industry. Her journey from traditional banking executive to fintech pioneer is packed with insights on leadership, resilience, and breaking through barriers in established industries.

What to Expect

8:30am - Arrive for coffee and networking breakfast
9:15am - Anne Boden in conversation with award-winning journalist Samantha Harman
10:00am - Interactive Q&A - your chance to ask Anne directly
10:20am - More networking, plus our Smart Works fashion sale

The morning will be hosted by Samantha Harman - award-winning journalist, one of the first working-class female editors in UK newspaper history, and soon-to-be author of Just Get Dressed (publishing January 2026).

Why Anne's Supporting Us

"I'm really inspired by the mission of Smart Works. The idea that a well-fitting outfit and the right preparation can unlock someone's confidence and potential is incredibly powerful. Empowering women to step into interviews feeling capable and valued is about so much more than clothes – it's about dignity, opportunity, and belief in themselves." - Anne Boden MBE

Your Ticket Includes

✓ Breakfast and coffee
✓ Anne Boden presentation and Q&A
✓ Networking with Reading's business community
✓ Access to Smart Works fashion sale
✓ The satisfaction of supporting a great local cause

Tickets are £35 with all proceeds supporting Smart Works Reading's mission - helping unemployed women in Reading gain the confidence, clothes, and coaching to succeed at job interviews.

Over 10 years, we've supported 4,300+ women. 67% get the job within a month. Every ticket helps us continue this vital work.

BUY TICKETS NOW

Perfect for business leaders, entrepreneurs, finance professionals, and anyone interested in leadership, innovation, and women's empowerment.

We'd love to see you there!

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