Wolverton will take centre stage next month as one of Milton Keynes’ largest International Women’s Day celebrations returns with a bigger programme, headline speakers and a live business pitch battle.
Taking place on Friday March 6, 2026, the event will run from 9.30am to 2.30pm at the Ridgeway Conference Centre, bringing together entrepreneurs, charities, creatives and community leaders from across the city and beyond.
Organised by Women in Enterprise and NatWest Business Accelerator, the event follows a sold-out gathering last year and promises an even broader mix of inspiration, entertainment and hands-on activity.
This year’s speaker line-up includes global business strategist and Sunday Times bestselling author Lisa Johnson, alongside motivational speaker Tendai Rukarwa, whose talk Shared warmth, shared strength explores leadership through empathy. They will be joined by Maryam Jazeem, a young entrepreneur championing the message that giving to girls creates gains for women, and Amy Lannon, speaking on the architecture of giving. The day will close with remarks and a vote of thanks from Emily Darlington MP.
Debbie Lewis, Community Manager for NatWest’s Accelerator Team and one of the event organisers, said the aim was to create something that felt both uplifting and practical. “This isn’t just a day of speeches,” said Debbie. “It’s about connection, confidence and giving women real opportunities to be seen, heard and supported — whether they’re running businesses, starting out or simply curious about what’s possible.”
A major new addition for 2026 is the Battle of the Business Ecosystems, a live female founder pitch competition taking place on the main stage. Local women-led businesses will pitch their ideas in front of a judging panel supported by South Midlands Growth Hub, NatWest Accelerator, Vulcan Works, FemaleTechpreneur and Central Arc Angels.
Michelle Theuma, Chair of Women in Enterprise, said the event reflects the growing ambition of women across Milton Keynes. “International Women’s Day is about celebrating progress, but also about creating momentum,” said Michelle. “By bringing business, creativity and charity together, we’re building something that lasts far beyond one day.”
Alongside the main programme, visitors can explore an exhibition featuring local businesses and charities across wellbeing, beauty, lifestyle, family support, creativity and enterprise. A networking lunch will be followed by two optional workshops, ranging from pottery and creative writing to fashion styling, self-celebration and neurodivergent support.
The event is raising money for MK ACT, which supports families affected by domestic abuse in Milton Keynes, and the MK Community Foundation Women’s Fund, which backs projects improving economic independence, wellbeing and safety for women and children.
The event is open to all genders aged 16 and over, with free ticket packages available for schools and colleges.
Tickets are available at www.womeninenterprise.co.uk
