Celebrating 5 Years of TBE’s Most Inspiring Women

Join us for a powerful evening that celebrates the incredible women shaping our region.

We’ll be recognising the women voted by you in TBE’s Most Inspiring Women lists 2026 for Bath & Somerset and Swindon & Wiltshire, along with every woman featured since the initiative began five years ago.

It’s a chance to meet these remarkable women, hear their stories and connect with others who are making a difference in our communities.

We’re also excited to welcome three standout women from the past five years.

Maddie Difazio‑Wright
Maddie appeared in our 2024 list and returns with another extraordinary chapter. After completing the World’s Toughest Row and surviving an eight‑foot blue marlin spearing her boat mid‑Atlantic, she soon found her next challenge. Last year she took on the Zambezi and lived through a serious white‑water accident that became a turning point. Maddie will share what happened and the new focus that’s followed.

Tessa Armstrong, Founder of Voices for Life UK
Featured in our 2025 list, Tessa will talk about Raise the Roof, Voices for Life’s new year‑long campaign celebrating how music can bring hope, confidence and joy to children.

Ruth Keily, CEO of Mentoring Plus
One of this year’s Most Inspiring Women, Ruth will share insights into her work at Mentoring Plus and explain how you and your organisation can get involved and make a real difference.

Plus an exciting update on Bath’s cultural future
We’ll also hear from Sophie McKinlay, Project Director of the new Fashion Museum Bath, who will share a short update on the museum set to redefine fashion and culture in the city. Based in the Grade II listed Old Post Office and forming a key part of the new Milsom Quarter, the museum will bring world‑class fashion stories to life for local and global audiences. Construction begins in 2027 with doors opening in 2030.

To mark this milestone year, we’re inviting back every woman who has appeared in our lists for a special celebration and presentation.

Our initiative supports International Women’s Day, and this year we’ll embrace the 2026 theme: #GiveToGain.

Your ticket includes a charcuterie pot by Truffle & Thyme and wine by Canned Wine Co.

With thanks to our sponsors Milsted Langdon and Goughs Solicitors.

We can’t wait to welcome you to one of the most anticipated events in the TBE calendar.