Last week, I had the pleasure of attending a #WECAN focus group at Leeds Beckett University’s Rose Bowl. #WECAN brings together women from all walks of life – students, professionals, business owners, and those in larger organisations – to share experiences, exchange ideas, and explore how personal and professional challenges shape their journeys.

The session focused on shaping the future of the programme. Hearing participants discuss barriers, breakthroughs, and the factors that influence confidence, wellbeing, and progression provided real insight into how shared experience can support growth, both personally and professionally.

With 22 of our female colleagues having contributed to #WECAN previously, it was rewarding to explore how the programme can continue to evolve – remaining relevant, inclusive, and impactful. Insights from the session will feed into initiatives such as Local Skills & Investment Planning (LSIP), which supports skills development across the region.

At Blueberry, we’ve long supported professional development through Leeds Beckett University, from sending female colleagues on #WECAN ILM short courses to participating in student events and short courses. Most recently, our Projects & Resources Manager, Zoe Thorpe, completed the Help to Grow: Management course at LBU, putting her learning into practice across our business and reinforcing our commitment to supporting women in leadership.

Programmes like #WECAN go beyond professional development, providing a space for women to share ideas, gain perspective, and consider how they can shape the future of their work and communities. It was inspiring to see first-hand the energy and commitment driving women’s growth and leadership across the region.

For more information about the #WECAN Network and how it supports, champions, and connects women in leadership, visit Leeds Beckett University’s #WECAN page to explore their community, events, and resources.