These have further increased my drive for success and given me a clear progression path.

It is gratifying to know that my peers believe in me and see me as a future leader in the business.

I have found inspiration from women CEOs such as Alison Rose from NatWest, where I began my career in finance.

Although Alison is no longer the CEO, she was the first woman to become the CEO of a major high-street bank, and this has always stuck in my mind.

I also admire Mary Callahan Erdoes from JP Morgan Chase's asset and wealth management, who is widely known for her influence in the industry. 

My mother and stepmother have also been a significant part of my journey.

They are both driven and money-motivated and have worked their way up to management roles through sheer hard work.

Their advice to always be myself and work hard has contributed to my success.

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•   'Let's rededicate ourselves to dismantling the barriers that hinder women's progress in the workplace'
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During my career, I have made building strong relationships with brokers and colleagues a priority and have always strived to demonstrate my worth and the added value I can bring through my expertise.

As a woman in the specialist lending industry, I have faced gender stereotyping.

An example would be, someone assuming that I am in a supporting role, rather than an relationship manager.

Although there have been challenges associated with my gender, it is not something that I experience regularly.

While entering a male-dominated industry can be daunting, it is gradually becoming more diverse and inclusive.

I have always enjoyed my job and working within this industry, and I would recommend it to any woman wanting to enter this world.

Being a woman should not be a barrier to success.

As long as you believe in yourself, challenge stereotypes, stay confident, and lead by example, you can achieve your goals and get to where you want to be.