KNOW YOUR WORTH: BRUMMIE BUSINESS HOSTS SOLD-OUT EVENT CHAMPIONING FEMALE LEADERS IN THE MIDLANDS

New initiative ‘BRUMWIM’ unites female directors, leaders, and professionals in the region

Over 60 local women in Birmingham’s creative and marketing industries came together for 'Know Your Worth’, the first ticketed event of BRUMWIM (Birmingham Women in Marketing), which took place on Thursday January 16th, at the iconic Alpha Tower.

Spearheaded by Fran Nolan, founder of award-winning local creative content agency Tribera, the event provided a platform for women to tackle critical issues such as imposter syndrome, pay inequality, and career progression roadblocks.

Fran launched BRUMWIM out of frustration with the lack of meaningful support for professional women in the Midlands, often overshadowed by London and Manchester.

The initiative kicked off in 2024 with an intimate dinner at The Ivy, uniting 10 of Birmingham’s most influential female marketing leaders. Following its success, ‘Know Your Worth’ marked BRUMWIM’s next bold step, featuring an expert panel of powerhouse women sharing practical advice, insights, and lived experiences.

The evening’s lineup included Sally Hawkesford, Director and founder of SHC Digital; Donna Faria, Head of Marketing and Communications for NHS Supply Chain; and keynote speaker Bex Galligan, best-selling author of It Pays to Be Happy and Head of People Experience at Wagamama. Together, they delved deep and shared discussions on how to break barriers, push boundaries, and demand what they deserve in the workplace, with the attendees.

The panel discussion was one of many highlights of the evening, providing honest accounts from women who have overcome obstacles in their careers. The panellists also encouraged attendees to advocate for themselves through boundary setting and improved negotiation styles, as well as advice on managing and co-existing with imposter syndrome.

Shantania Beckford, Birmingham-based community and self-empowerment advocate said:"The energy in the room was electric! Hearing from women who have fought for their worth and succeeded was beyond inspiring. This is the kind of empowering support that Birmingham’s creative women truly deserve. Events like this give me real hope that together, we can create a more equitable and supportive environment in our city."

Founder, Fran Nolan, emphasised on BRUMWIM’s next steps:

"We’re not here to ask for change politely. BRUMWIM is demanding real action. Championing gender equality, promoting Birmingham’s incredible creative talent, and empowering women to break down barriers like the pay gap and career progression challenges. From our first event with the Founding 10, it was clear that this community is integral to the city’s growth. Uniting these women was just the beginning, revealing the deep hunger for progress.

“Our community is growing, and brick by brick, we’re building something extraordinary.”

Looking ahead, BRUMWIM has ambitious plans. February will see the launch of its mentoring programme with the next event, ‘Level Up Your Career’. The group is also rolling out a series of hard-hitting workshops and further networking events to provide year-round support for female marketers in the region.

BRUMWIM will continue to demand real change in the Midlands and its three key objectives are clear:

1.     Champion Gender Equality - Advocate for equal opportunities and representation for women across Birmingham’s industries.

2.     Promote Birmingham’s Marketing & Creative Industries - Elevate Birmingham’s creative sector by showcasing local talent, encouraging creative innovation, and driving visibility.

3.     Build Confidence - Empower women to overcome barriers such as access to the industry, the pay gap, career progression challenges, and the pressures of returning from maternity leave.

To join the BRUMWIM movement, participate in upcoming events, and connect with the community, visit brumwim.com or visit socials: Instagram | TikTok | LinkedIn