AFPA Trust IWD Lunch 2025: a resounding success

Yesterday, the AFPA Trust hosted its inaugural International Women’s Day (IWD) Lunch at the prestigious Royal Overseas League in London.

The event brought together 124 attendees, with 90% representing AFPA Trust Charity Partners, to celebrate and honour the achievements of women in the finance industry and beyond.

In a proud show of commitment to gender equality, the AFPA Trust also announced that this year’s event was in support of The Fawcett Society, a leading UK charity campaigning for gender equality and women’s rights.

Inspiring speakers share empowering messages

The luncheon featured three remarkable women who shared their insights and experiences:

Charlotte Broadbent: A former fashion editor of Hello Magazine and Estee Lauder director, now a TV presenter, style consultant, and lecturer at the London College of Style.

Charlotte discussed the psychological impact of colour and the concept of “mindset dressing,” encouraging attendees to dress in a way that reflects how they wish to behave and be remembered.

Denise Nurse: A multifaceted professional—lawyer, TV presenter, business owner, and co-founder of initiatives like Halebury, Black Founders Hub, and Support SEND Kids.

Denise emphasised the importance of embracing one’s multifaceted nature and dreaming big, sharing her journey across various fields and her dedication to flexible work, diversity, and education rights.

Irini Tzortzoglou: The 2019 MasterChef UK Winner, who curated the event’s menu.

With over 30 years in banking before her culinary triumph, Irini is now an ambassador for Women In The Food Industry. Her transition from finance to culinary arts exemplifies the power of pursuing one’s passion.

A celebration of individuality and collaboration

The event was lauded by attendees for its vibrant atmosphere and insightful discussions.

AFPA Trust Chair Robert Taylor highlighted a key takeaway from the luncheon: “Individuality is your superpower.”

He expressed gratitude towards the AFPA Trust team—Jane Bird, Julie Warren, and Aysha Ellis-Aziz—for their efforts in bringing the event to life, noting that the energy in the room was unparalleled and deeming it the best event the organisation has hosted.

Supporting The Fawcett Society, the event aligned with the charity’s mission to create a society where women are equal, empowered, and celebrated for their contributions across all industries.

Looking ahead: AFPA Trust’s upcoming events

Building on the success of the IWD Lunch, the AFPA Trust announced the return of the popular AFPA Trust BIG Quiz, scheduled for May 22, 2025, at the Royal Overseas League in London’s Mayfair. This event promises another opportunity for professionals to come together, network, and support the Trust’s charitable initiatives.

For more information on upcoming events or to become an AFPA Trust Charity Partner, interested parties can contact Robert Taylor at rtaylor@ltisolutions.com or visit www.afpatrust.com/events.