Shrija Bhattacharya & Zuzana Liptakova share their reflections on Centenary Action-Business Link’s most recent event.
On Monday, March 10, 2025, a room filled with passionate, driven women came together to discuss something that affects us all—food and politics. Hosted by Women in the Food Industry and Centenary Action, Bringing Women to the Table—Women in Food & Politics wasn’t just another panel discussion; it was a celebration of the power of women to shape the industries that nourish our bodies and our society.
A Legacy of Change
This event was inspired by the tireless efforts of the suffragettes and suffragists who paved the way for women’s voices to be heard. Centenary Action, founded by Professor Helen Pankhurst CBE in 2018, carries forward that legacy with a clear mission: to achieve a gender-equal parliament by 2028. The event, generously hosted by Tomorrow Group at their Hatton Garden offices, embodied that spirit of activism and progress.
The Women Who Led the Conversation
What made this gathering so impactful was the line up of remarkable women who brought their expertise and passion to the discussion. From political leaders to trailblazers in the food and beverage industry, these women aren’t just talking about change—they’re making it happen.
Meet the Panellists:
- Caroline Voaden – Liberal Democrat MP for South Devon & Vice Chair of the APPG for Hospitality & Tourism.
- Amanda Hack – Labour MP for North West Leicestershire & Vice Chair of the APPG for Food and Drink.
- Nicola Bates – CEO of WineGB, representing vineyards and winemakers across Great Britain.
- Julianne Caillouette Noble – Managing Director of The Sustainable Restaurant Association, a passionate advocate for sustainability and food education.
- Kate Howell – Food strategist and communications expert, formerly of Borough Market, deeply committed to food as a force for community and sustainability.
- Nicola Hart – Founder of Agua de Madre, an innovative beverage brand.
- Antonia Jamison – A mentor and advisor to some of the UK’s most exciting start-up food brands.
Conversations That Matter
The discussion flowed as easily as the ideas in the room, touching on pressing issues like:
- How women in politics and the food industry are shaping policies that impact what we eat and how we produce it.
- The power of community-driven food initiatives to create real change.
- The ongoing fight for equal representation and leadership opportunities in both fields.
- The importance of mentorship, collaboration, and resilience in breaking barriers.
A Call to Action
This wasn’t just an evening of thought-provoking discussion; it was a rallying cry. Change doesn’t happen in a vacuum—it happens when we come together, support each other, and push for better representation in decision-making spaces.
Centenary Action continues to work toward a more inclusive, gender-equal future. If you’re passionate about food, politics, or just making a difference, now is the time to get involved.
Follow us, join the movement, and be part of the change. The table is set—let’s take our seats!