OREANDA-NEWS. The inaugural Women’s Invitational sponsored by SSE took place at Stoke Park Golf Club yesterday (Monday 21 September). The bespoke business event provides female business executives from all industries a chance to mix golf and business. The one-day event offered attendees, with all ranges of golf experience, a chance to network and engage with delegates from leading UK businesses.

 

Beginners were given the opportunity to try golf, whilst more experienced golfers competed in a 9-hole tournament. Off the course, all delegates enjoyed a number of keynote speaker presentations whilst engaging in interactive discussions.

Rosie MacRae, Head of Diversity & Inclusion at SSE attended the event; “We’re trying to deliver change in SSE, and through this type of support we’re aiming to contribute to change across business and society as a whole. It’s about challenging stereotypes; creating new opportunities for women; and embracing things that make a positive difference.

“The day itself was also about having fun and we all learnt a thing or two from the expert golf coaches as they took us through our long game, putting and chipping challenges. We enjoyed a captivating keynote speech from Matthew Syed of world number one table tennis fame where he shared what it takes to be really great at something. Firstly you need the opportunity to try something; you also need great coaching; and thirdly you need to practice – a lot. This event allowed us to offer two of the three ingredients, with many women leaving wanting to play more golf.

“At SSE we have two ways to contribute to improving diversity: first, by increasing the opportunities for everyone within our own business; and, second, by supporting positive change in business and society as a whole. This event was an example of positive change in action and demonstrates we are taking action that makes a difference.”

Title sponsor SSE has committed to the event until 2017, adding the golfing event to its already varied and impressive sponsorship portfolio, which includes The SSE Women’s FA Cup; The SSE Arena, Wembley; and The SSE Hydro.