A regional law firm has hosted an event celebrating women's achievements in science and technology on International Women's Day.

The Gardner Leader gathering drew industry leaders, business owners, and members of Oxford’s academic community and also made a contribution towards the STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) charity, Maths4Girls.

The event took place at the new HB Allen Centre, Keble College, Oxford.

Oxford Mail: More than 80 people attended the eventMore than 80 people attended the event (Image: Gardner Leader)

Sponsored by Critchleys Chartered Accountants, the event saw attendees network, share ideas and the acknowledge the perspectives women bring to the science and technology communities.

Attracting more than 80 attendees, the event was a celebration of female achievement and a showcase for innovation across various industries.

It recognised this year's International Women's Day theme - '#InspireInclusion for the forging of a better, inclusive world for women'.

The day was graced by speakers from scientific, academic, and business backgrounds.

Oxford Mail: Dr Eleanor Barnes, professor of hepatology and experimental medicine, University of Oxford, speaking at the eventDr Eleanor Barnes, professor of hepatology and experimental medicine, University of Oxford, speaking at the event (Image: Gardner Leader)

These included Professor Eleanor Barnes, University of Oxford's professor of hepatology and experimental medicine, Sharon Parker-Lines, deputy managing director at Astroscale, and various others contributing significantly to their fields.

Sally Addis, partner at Gardner Leader, said: "We are absolutely delighted with the success of our Inspire Inclusion event in celebration of International Women's Day and in support of the charity Maths4Girls.

Oxford Mail: Sally AddisSally Addis (Image: Gardner Leader)

"The event brought together an exciting collaboration of business leaders, academics, and experts in their fields to showcase some incredible success stories and the diverse mix of innovation, expertise, and knowledge available in the region.”

Sharon Parker-Lines, from Astroscale Ltd, added: "It’s been a huge pleasure to be a part of Gardner Leader’s Inspire Inclusion event and share my experience of working in the space industry all while celebrating women’s achievements on International Women’s Day."

Maths4Girls, the charity supported by the event, focusses on encouraging girls in their early teen years to improve their maths skills and consider careers in mathematics-related fields.

Juliette Buet, project lead at Maths4Girls, expressed gratitude towards Gardner Leader and Critchleys for proving a platform to showcase their work.

Ms Addis added: "It’s been a privilege to support the important work undertaken by Math4Girls.

"The charity play an important role in inspiring the next generation to both excel in maths beyond GCSE and explore amazing career opportunities available through STEM subjects.”

Representatives from Critchleys also expressed their pride and satisfaction in being part of the 'Inspire Inclusion' event.

Katherine Wilkes, audit partner at Critchleys, acknowledged the array of talent and inspiration on offer in Oxfordshire.

Gardner Leader provides legal advice to companies of all sizes working in the life sciences sector, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to fostering progress and growth in our society.