Bloom North continues its commitment to up- levelling women with the launch of its mentoring programme, a new charity partner and this year’s first sell-out panel event

Bloom North continues to expand, recently announcing its 2024 Mentoring programme alongside a new charity partner, the Miscarriage Association.

In 2023, Bloom North fundraised £10,000 for the Mustard Tree – a tremendous effort that wouldn’t have been possible without the companies who generously sponsored their initiatives. This year, Co-Presidents Olivia Waite and Sarah Fleming take pride in supporting the Miscarriage Association, in memory of media stalwart Paula Yeadon-Smith.

Miscarriage, affecting an estimated 1 in 5 pregnancies, often leaves individuals feeling isolated or uncertain about where to turn.¹ The Miscarriage Association offers crucial support and information to those affected by miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or molar pregnancy, reassuring them that they are there to help. Paula Yeadon-Smith, a cherished member of the Northern media scene, remains much loved. Following her own heartbreaking experience and grappling with the insufficient support available, Paula dedicated herself to supporting others. She praised the Miscarriage Association for their invaluable resources. Tragically, the world lost Paula suddenly last year, leading to the selection of the Miscarriage Association as the chosen charity to honour her memory.

Following a 31% growth in members in 2023, Bloom North has launched an exciting diary of events and initiatives for 2024.

After a record-breaking number of applications in 2023 which saw Bloom North match over 100 mentors and mentees, today we announce the return of the programme for 2024. This provides an opportunity for individuals at any career stage to access a mentor who has trodden a similar path before them for invaluable, and often career-changing advice and support. The programme welcomes applications from all backgrounds across media, creative, PR, digital, communications, and associated fields, both agency and client-side.

The first panel event of 2024, focusing on personal branding, has already sold out. The event, hosted by broadcaster Jackie Adedeji, features guest speakers including North West entrepreneur and CEO of JOLT, Lindsay Kane; Coralie Watson, Co-Founder and Director of Theme Socials; and Claudia Cardinali, Head of Operations at Great Influence. The theme will extend across various platforms, including the recently launched Book Club, workshops designed to help individuals enhance their LinkedIn presence, and the latest episode in the network’s podcast series, titled ‘’The Blooming North’.

Driven by a shared passion for supporting women throughout all life stages, Waite and Fleming lead the charge at Bloom North. For those navigating the early years of their careers, Young Bloomers hosts tailored events to provide valuable insights and connections. This year, the network plans to broaden its scope with initiatives addressing topics like the menopause, parenting, and empowering women to discover purpose in the latter stages of their careers. Bloom North remains committed to fostering wellness within its community. The popular ‘big walks,’ drawing over 80 participants, now coincide with the launch of the Wellness sub-committee. This group is dedicated to crafting an inclusive, interactive wellness platform for the community.

In 2023, the network introduced ‘Bloom For All,’ a dedicated DE&I group within its predominantly women-focused framework. Acknowledging the importance of diverse perspectives, the committee initiated its first male panel on allyship. This year, the focus intensifies on translating DE&I principles into action. Initiatives include expanding reach of The Neurodiversity Playbook, and the launch of The Exchange, a mentoring initiative which connects industry leaders from diverse backgrounds and genders.

Diversity is a cornerstone at Bloom North—everyone is welcome, regardless of gender, background, or experience. While the core connection base is primarily female, the network actively seeks new connections from various sectors, embracing opinions without bias. Diversity of thought is not just encouraged; it’s celebrated for bringing the best ideas to the table.

To join the Bloom North community, reach out to Sarah or Olivia directly. Stay updated on the latest events, including information on this year’s Mentoring programme registration, by following on Instagram @bloomnorthnetwork or on LinkedIn.

¹ Miscarriage Association Annual Review 2021-22

Source: Bloom North

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