When She Leads For Legacy launched the Empowered to Lead Conference three years ago, it quickly became more than a professional gathering. It became a movement — a space where Black women could see themselves not only included in the leadership conversation but placed at its centre.
This October, the UK’s premier CPD-accredited leadership conference for Black women and allies returns to Manchester, promising another day of inspiration, connection and practical skills. Over 800 leaders are expected to attend, making this one of the most significant events of Black History Month 2025.
Why this conference matters
For too long, leadership spaces have overlooked voices that deserve to be heard. Empowered to Lead 2025 seeks to change that narrative. The conference is built around the idea that leadership is not a title, but a practice — one rooted in confidence, clarity and courage.
Delegates can expect more than motivational talks. This is a programme designed to equip participants with proven frameworks to accelerate careers and businesses, while also offering CPD credits to strengthen professional profiles. Corporate partners and decision-makers will be present, opening doors for meaningful connections.
Perhaps most importantly, the event provides a rare chance to connect with a community of ambitious leaders who see, support and celebrate one another.
Inside the programme
The day begins with a networking breakfast before moving into a packed agenda of sessions led by inspiring speakers. Keynotes and panels will cover themes such as leading with power and purpose, building wealth and financial security, driving real organisational change, cultivating resilience, scaling businesses with innovation, and owning your voice in spaces where it too often goes unheard.
Each session carries the “Unstoppable” title — from Unstoppable Leadership to Unstoppable Confidence — reinforcing the message that barriers can be challenged, and limits can be redefined.
The day closes on a celebratory note with music and networking, giving delegates the opportunity to process the learning, forge new connections and leave energised for the future.
Who it’s for
Empowered to Lead 2025 is designed first and foremost for Black women at every stage of their leadership journey. But it is also a vital space for allies and advocates committed to inclusion, HR and EDI professionals shaping workplace culture, entrepreneurs looking to expand their impact, and students stepping into leadership for the first time.
By gathering such a wide audience under one roof, the conference creates a cross-generational, cross-sector dialogue that is rare in traditional professional development spaces.
What attendees say
Past participants speak of the event’s transformative impact:
“The conference highlighted and encouraged me to continue to lead and do the things that I am currently doing. I am passionate about leaving a legacy, making a difference and standing out. I have hope, I have a vision, I can do this. The conference was impactful, encouraging, dynamic and powerful.” – 2024 attendee
Tickets and booking
General admission tickets include access to all sessions, lunch and the leadership marketplace. CPD tickets offer the added benefit of certified credits for professional development portfolios.
Group discounts are available, with savings of up to 20% for organisations booking multiple places.
Advance booking is strongly recommended as demand for this conference continues to grow each year.
Why now?
Because leadership won’t wait. Opportunities are shifting, doors are opening, and conversations about equity and inclusion are gaining ground. Empowered to Lead 2025 arrives at a crucial moment, offering the tools, the community and the belief needed to step into leadership without limits.
It is more than a conference — it is a movement. One that celebrates brilliance, amplifies voices, and ensures that when we speak of leadership, Black women are at the heart of the story.
Reserve your place today and be unstoppable.
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