The UK government commissioned Alison Rose Review of Female Entrepreneurship
highlighted that women entrepreneurs are underrepresented in the most productive sectors
of the UK economy, and that female entrepreneurship could add a further £250bn to the UK
economy.
The Review recommended that encouraging young women to study Science, Technology,
Engineering & Mathematics i.e. STEM subjects, is key to increasing female start-up rates in
those sectors. Women still make up a minority of the STEM workforce, occupying 29.4% of
roles.
It is widely accepted that the lack of visible female role models in the STEM industry
contributes to the low number of females taking up STEM related careers.
Burnley born Saira Hussain who heads Architectural practices HAD & CO, in Burnley,
Blackburn and Manchester was recognised as an inspirational female business owners in
STEM and Construction, who acts as aa role model to the future generations. She is a
woman challenging the status quo, in typically male dominated sectors.
Baroness Sandy Verma in conjunction with FSB and Natwest/RBS hosted the event In the
Peers dining room at the House of Lords. They were also joined by Baroness Lucy Neville
Rose (Minister of State at the Cabinet Office); Caroline Nokes MP (Chair of the
Parliamentary Women and Equalities Committee); Chi Onwurah MP (Shadow Minister
Science, Research & Innovation)
According to Laura Capper head of construction and manufacturing at Natwest “Empowering women in STEM and construction isn’t just about breaking gender barriers; it’s about strengthening the foundation of progress. By embracing diversity and inclusivity, we unlock a wealth of talent, creativity, and innovation that boosts the economy and propels the industry forward. Addressing existing underrepresentation can bring fresh perspectives, skillsets, and expertise, enriching teams and projects with their unique contributions building a future that is not only equitable but also built to last. The 2019 Rose Review demonstrated that up to £250bn of new value could be added to the UK economy if women started and scaled new businesses at the same rate as UK men.”
