Wed 23 Sep 2026
Breakout session A
Finding your Voice
Most people think public speaking is a talent you either have or you don't. It isn't. It's a skill, and like any skill, it can be learned. In this session we go back to basics: how to structure what you want to say, how to use your voice as the instrument it is, and how to walk into any room and speak with the clarity and confidence that makes people listen.
Cath Baxter, Professional Voice and Public Speaking Consultant & former Head of Voice, Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts
Breakout session B
Preparing for your next role: Are you ready for a Promotion?
If you would like to be taken through the selection process step by step by a Civil Service selection ex-occupational psychologist and Senior Civil Servant who has trained and worked successfully for many years with Hiring Managers, Panel Chairs and hundreds of applicants then this is the session for you. You will be able to compare how prepared you are, and what you need to do next to improve your approach in a supportive session which will offer examples and valuable tips that have worked for others.
Richard Hillsdon, Civil Service Selection Consultant, ex-CS occupational psychologist and Senior Civil Servant
Breakout session C
Unlocking Your Next Level: The Neural Patterns Behind Senior Women's Breakthroughs
You've earned your seat. Built the track record. So why does the next level feel harder to hold than it should? Drawing on psychology, neuroscience, and research with over 4,000 senior women, Saj reveals the neural patterns quietly capping progression long after skill and experience stop being the constraint - and teaches one, in full, that you can recognise in yourself by the time you leave the room.
Saj Zaman-Elahi, CEO & Founder, LeadHERship Academy
Breakout session D
Difficult Conversations Done Well
Most of us don't avoid difficult conversations because we don't care. We avoid them because we don't know how to start them, or we don't feel in control once they have begun. This session is about changing that: how to say the thing that needs saying, clearly and kindly, without it turning into a confrontation, an apology, or a conversation you wish you'd never had.
Cath Baxter, Professional Voice and Public Speaking Consultant & former Head of Voice, Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts
Breakout session E
Soft power, sharp impact: Leading with Cultural Intelligence
This session equips leaders with practical tools to navigate differences, reduce friction, and make better decisions. Cultural intelligence is a leadership capability that directly impacts outcomes, not just a “nice to have.”
Ritika Wadhwa, CEO & Founder, Prabhaav Global
Breakout session F
Practical AI Skills for Everyday Leadership
Learn real-world application of AI within the context of the Civil Service and master how to move beyond simple prompting to integrate AI into everyday work. You'll experience how to develop content and communications efficiently with AI. In addition learn how to harness the power of AI for task management, organisation and productivity, understanding what is permissible and appropriate within Civil Service guidelines.
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