Lately, I feel as though I’ve been swept away on a wave of opportunity and growth as a co-operator and a feminist. I was fortunate to be chosen for a place on the Chris Herries Programme, and so much has happened since.

Through our monthly online sessions, we learned not just from the excellent trainers, but from the experiences of our sisters as well. We shared our ideas, hopes and challenges together. I was able to be myself, not on guard, and totally relaxed as the atmosphere was a truly safe space. Coming together at the end for a face to face event was particularly special because we had already forged a bond.

The networking amongst the women I met has been invaluable. We have supported one another as we have met again and again in other realms – once a co-operative sister, always a co-operative sister.

Since doing the Chris Herries Programme, I have become more involved in the Co-operative Party. I’d already been Labour, but I’m incredibly proud to say I have now been elected as a Labour and Co-operative Councillor and am also Vice Chair of my Co-operative Party branch – we are proud to be a majority female and diverse executive!

If any other women are thinking that they want to begin a journey as a co-operative leader, I strongly encourage you to take the leap and be a part of this Programme. You don’t know how far you can go until you take that first step.