Network She, a women’s business network established in North Wales in 2007, is entering a new phase under fresh leadership after founder Ruth Lloyd-Williams stepped down. The organization, which has spent 19 years supporting women through networking events, business workshops, conferences, and its flagship International Women’s Day Awards, announced its new team on September 8, 2026, at Lloyd-Williams’ “Last Hurrah” event.
Three local women, Lisa Williams, Tracy Cawthray, and Sara Hughes, are taking over the organization’s direction. All three are behind Womanifest, a wellbeing and empowerment festival for women and teenage girls focused on personal development and building confidence beyond comfort zones. Their experience in creating events centered on empowerment will shape Network She’s future.
While business networking will remain core to Network She, the new leadership aims to expand its scope. The team plans to broaden focus beyond traditional business events to include confidence-building, skills development, and community impact for women and girls across the region and beyond.
Building on Legacy While Charting New Direction
The new leaders are clear about honoring Network She’s history while introducing fresh momentum. Lisa Williams stated: “We aren’t looking to erase that history, we want to build on it. We want to honour what Network She has always stood for while bringing new ideas, new events, and new opportunities to the women who are part of it.”
One immediate priority is establishing the Network She Foundation, a charitable initiative designed to support projects benefiting women and girls beyond the business sphere. The team plans to unveil its first foundation campaign on November 2, with Cawthray emphasizing the initiative’s practical value: “We want to create something that has a genuine impact and gives women and girls something they can take away and use in their everyday lives.”
Expanding Access and Community Engagement
The organization is hosting a launch event where potential members can meet the new team and learn about upcoming initiatives. Williams encouraged women from all backgrounds to participate as the network evolves, noting that connection and conversation can spark unexpected opportunities.
The shift reflects a deliberate strategy to broaden Network She’s appeal and impact. Rather than abandoning the networking foundation that has defined the organization, the new team is layering additional support structures around it. This approach aims to serve women at different life and career stages, from those seeking business connections to those developing personal skills or exploring community involvement.
Frequently asked questions
Who is taking over leadership of Network She?
Lisa Williams, Tracy Cawthray, and Sara Hughes are the new leaders of Network She, announced on September 8, 2026.
What is the Network She Foundation?
The Network She Foundation is a new charitable initiative designed to support projects benefiting women and girls beyond the business sphere, with its first campaign launching November 2.
Will Network She continue business networking activities?
Yes, business networking will remain at the core of Network She while the organization expands to include confidence-building, skills development, and community impact.
How long has Network She been supporting women in business?
Network She was established in 2007 and has spent 19 years supporting women through networking events, workshops, conferences, and the International Women’s Day Awards.
