A networking group that aims to help women “build meaningful connections” is
launching in Cheadle this month.
The Cheadle Women in Business Network (WIBN) group is set to meet for the first
time at The Red Lion, Stockport Road on Thursday, October 10.
Organisers expect it will be a sell-out event.
WIBN franchise owner Susie Sprigg (48) said: “The incredible interest and support I have received has been truly remarkable, though not entirely surprising.
“During the pandemic, I experienced first-hand the remarkable support within the
female business community. After losing my husband at the age of 52 the previous
year, I was in desperate need of connection, community and hope. I found all of that
and more through the Chester WIBN group online, who helped me to heal from my
grief.
“I first felt a strong urge to create my own in-person groups when the world began to
reopen. What started as a single group has now expanded to nine, and I have no
intention of stopping. I am committed to this work for life because I recognise how
vital it is for women to have a safe, inclusive space where they truly belong.”
Susie (pictured) has appointed two leaders to run the Cheadle group, which will meet from noon until 2pm on the second Thursday of each month.
Angel Scott-Bottoms is originally from Ohio, but recently became a UK citizen after living in South Manchester for the past seven years.
“Being a part of WIBN has helped me to feel more at home in my new home,” said
Angel (50) who launched her private therapy practice after retraining at the Manchester Institute for Psychotherapy.
“I believe that the true opposite of joy isn’t sadness, but isolation. That’s why building
meaningful connections is, to me, the best way to choose joy. My hope is for the
group members to truly know, like and trust one another. This is how we can create a
sense of community – something we all need more of in our lives.”
Kerrie Walton (51) who will co-lead with Angel, added: “I had spent 30 years in the
corporate world before starting my own leadership, coaching and mentoring
business. I knew I had to start networking locally, but it terrified me. My second
attempt was at a WIBN launch in Altrincham, where I met the wonderful Susie and
Angel, and discovered that networking can be relaxed, welcoming and fun! Plus, I’ve
grown my business as a result.
“What I’m looking forward to the most about the Cheadle launch is bringing that
supportive environment to a new group of networkers – both beginners and more
seasoned.”
Offering national networking opportunities online and in-person interactions at local
groups run by franchisees, WIBN will celebrate its twentieth anniversary next year.
“We’re nearing 1,000 members nationally,” said Susie. “Every day, more women are
joining us. The primary benefits are the sense of belonging and the opportunities for
growth.”
