13 July 2026 marked a standout moment for the sector as more than 250 women and allies came together at Tesco Headquarters for an inspirational, heartwarming and memorable event designed to celebrate progress, amplify voices and strengthen connections across security.
Hosted by Rachel Bennett, Security and Shrink Director at Tesco, and organised by the WISE UK and Tesco team, the day brought together an impressive programme of 36 speakers to share journeys, stories and practical insight from across the industry.
Welcoming sponsors through exhibition stands and speaking slots, the event created space for conversation, collaboration and visibility, while reinforcing a shared mission to reduce the gender gap and support equity across the sector. Thank you to the sponsors Zinc Systems, Vars Technology, Smoke Screen, Convergint, Mitie, Duress, Association of Security Consultants, Abloy, Ocular, Todd Research and DNA Selecta.
The atmosphere throughout was unmistakably selfless and uplifting, with attendees describing a room full of energy, generosity and purpose, a celebration of what can happen when women and allies are given a platform to lead, learn and inspire.
Wellbeing, lived experience, and everyday support.
The speaker programme opened up vital conversations around wellbeing, inclusion and the realities many women face in and beyond the workplace.
Michelle Russell, Chief Executive of the Security Industry Authority, gave a forward-looking perspective on the future landscape of security, emphasising the importance of adaptation, standards and leadership as the industry evolves.
Nicola Sharp-Jeffs spoke on economic abuse and another type of security, broadening the conversation around the forms of harm that can shape lives both inside and outside the workplace.
Peachus Bra Fitting spoke on women’s wellness, bra fit and pain-free living, underlining how comfort and confidence can affect daily performance and quality of life.
Herizen followed with an important discussion on menopause in the workplace, exploring the need for education, training and awareness so organisations can better support colleagues through every stage of their careers.
Third App with Rosie McInerney shared powerful insight into her app, designed to record domestic abuse and feelings of uncertainty, helping build evidence for police reports when the time is right and giving survivors a more secure way to document what they experience.
Crunch Mediation’s Nermina Webster highlighted the value of workplace mediation before grievance policies, showing how early intervention can help resolve issues constructively and protect working relationships.
WalkSafe’s Asia Worgan discussed the WalkSafe app, which helps women track journeys and take the safer route home, offering a practical example of how technology can support personal safety in everyday life.
Technology, safety and the future of security
The event also examined how technology and intelligence are reshaping modern security practice.
Zinc Systems and CEO Joe Zielinski hosted a panel on supercharged cases and AI in intelligence, incident, and case management, featuring Lois Savage, Jo Bloomfield, and Laura Turner, exploring the capabilities of humans and AI and the future role of technology in mitigating crime and exploring the opportunities and responsibilities that come with smarter systems and data-led approaches.
Ocular Chantal Anabtawi covered the move from isolated systems to connected intelligence, reflecting the sector’s growing need for joined-up insight and stronger decision-making.
Helen Clayton hosted a panel on technology, and it is impacting communities with Iona Blake, Ann Marie Martin, Nicola Stitch, John Garnett and Matt Gilmartin, exploring the opportunities and responsibilities that come with smarter systems and data-led approaches.
Debbie Carter led a lone worker safety panel with Adam Gergiss, Lauren Macdonald and Laura Turner, shining a light on the realities of working alone and the importance of robust support, planning and protection.
Leadership, collaboration and a powerful close
Lisa O’Flynn from Abloy hosted a Women in Security Network panel that provided insights on imposter syndrome, connection, coaching, mentoring, being a sponsor and making promises that see everyone’s light shine with panellists Liz Lloyd, Emma Harris, Ruth Sharman, Demelza Staples, and Sarah Jane Cork.
Human Giving and the Impact, which saw Gaby Price, CEO of Women’s Aid in Luton, share how the Women’s network has supported the environment in the refuge, making it a temporary home for women and children fleeing domestic abuse. The power of giving and the importance of supporting women on career pathways and a journey of safety.
Simon Crane hosted a panel on designing safety for the Association of Security Consultants, with Kate Dawes, Michelle Elkins, and Leigh Harper, focusing on the value of shared expertise, communication and collaborative design in creating safer environments.
The day concluded with a final keynote from Figen Murray, whose closing message brought the audience together around the power of action, resilience and collective responsibility.
With thanks to the sponsors, speakers, guests, and Tesco for hosting such an amazing event, which was a clear reminder of the impact of connection, visibility, and shared purpose. The day was photographed by Senem Peace, who is the Women in Security official photographer and has captured the event to provide memories for everyone who attended.
WISE UK, founded by Liz Lloyd, Emma Harris and Sarah-Jane Cork, continues to drive connection, empowerment and opportunity across the security sector and beyond. This landmark day showed exactly why that mission matters.
