“This conference will shine a light on how we can triumph over adversity; our speakers’ stories raising up our own lives with insights, hope, wit and wisdom.”
– Soroptimist President, Catherine Williamson.

Ladies celebrating triumph over adversity will be sharing their uplifting stories in a bid to inspire other women at an event in Leamington soon.

The Raise Up Conference, organised again by the Leamington Soroptimists, will hear from leading lights in the worlds of business, advocacy and charity whilst also fundraising for local causes. 

Their deeply personal tales will touch on a host of topics, from physical and mental health challenges, through to overcoming addiction, loss, trauma and domestic abuse. 

All proceeds from the day, on Sunday 14 September, will support Safeline, Navigating Margaret - Arts Uplift. 

The event is the latest passion project of Soroptimists President - and Leamington podcaster and author - Catherine Williamson, whose Gobsmacked! Podcast is also dedicated to celebrating inspirational life stories, and has now been heard in more than 123 countries. 

Of the conference, she said: “As Soroptimists, we are dedicated to raising up the lives of women and girls locally, nationally, and globally. It’s all about giving back to our community in the spirit of service. And our next event is a very special one.

“Each speaker has transformed their hardships into strength and faced significant personal challenges. This conference aims to provide attendees with inspiration, hope, and practical insights through the personal experiences of our speakers. It will shine a light on how we can triumph over adversity; our speakers’ stories raising up our own lives with insights, hope, wit and wisdom.”

Following the success of last year, businesses are again being invited to sponsor a place at the conference for female members of their team. 

Catherine added: “As a business, investing in a sponsorship for the Raise Up Conference is more than just a ticket—it's an opportunity to inspire and catalyse the next generation of leaders and volunteers in our community. 

“By sponsoring a place for a woman, you’re not only providing her with access to inspiration and practical tools, but also investing in the future of our local workforce and community. Last year we were delighted to welcome 34 women through sponsorship. Let’s come together again to raise up and equip those who will drive positive change in the years to come.”

Last year’s Raise Up conference proceeds of more than £3k funded a defibrillator for the Our Jay Foundation, based in Rugby as well as five wheelchairs for Kathmandu in partnership with New Futures Nepal. 

Raise Up takes place at The Fold in Leamington. Tickets, which include a light lunch, are available at an early bird price of £40 until July 31st, and then £50, available via the website.