The UK Space Agency marked International Women’s Day (IWD) 2023 by hosting a panel event with some fantastic female leaders from across the space sector. The event, was organised by the UKSA Women’s Network and Women in Aerospace (WIA-E UK), that focused on the themes of IWD this year which is ‘Embrace Equity’, exploring some of the differences between equity and equality, as well as hearing from panel members about their career paths and defining moments.

The event involved a 45min panel discussion, followed by informal socialising and networking amongst staff and panel members. The Panel consisted of:

• Meganne Christian, Exploration Commercialisation Lead (member of the ESA astronaut reserve), UK Space Agency
• Mamatha Maheshwarappa, Payload Systems Lead, Office of the Chief Engineer, UK Space Agency and Co-chair, WIA-E UK Committee
• Alice Bunn, Chief Executive, Institution for Mechanical Engineers
• Nafeesa Dajda, Director for National Capabilities, Satellite Applications Catapult

Chaired by Claire Barcham, Corporate Services Director, UK Space Agency

This event was open to all staff regardless of gender. It was hosted in-person in the BEIS Conference Centre in 1 Victoria Street, London; the panel discussion was also be streamed live for those unable to make it to the venue. The event was well attended (~40 in person and ~20 online).