MAIN STAGE SPEAKERS

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  • Dr Megan Rossi, founder of The Gut Health Doctor, is one of the most influential gut health specialists internationally and a leading Research Fellow at King’s College London. A registered dietitian and nutritionist for over fifteen years, she leads The Gut Health Clinic and has an award-winning PhD in Probiotics, which was recognised for its contribution to science, receiving the Dean’s Award for outstanding research. She's also the author of multiple Sunday Times best-selling books, and is the founder of multi-award-winning gut health food brand, Bio&Me and the live bacteria supplements brand, SMART STRAINS. 

    Connect with Megan at www.theguthealthdoctor.com  | @TheGutHealthDoctor 

  • Dr. Aziza Sesay is an award winning GP, Educator, Honorary Senior Clinical Lecturer and medical broadcaster celebrated for her contributions to health education, awareness, and advocacy. As the founder of "Talks with Dr. Sesay," she empowers audiences with evidence-based health information, focusing on women’s health, cancer awareness, mental health, and health inequity. Dr. Sesay serves as Vice Chair and Creative Director of Black Female Doctors UK and is an Ambassador for leading health charities, including The Eve Appeal and Wellbeing of Women. Featured in major media outlets, she is a regular GP on BBC Breakfast. She has also collaborated with numerous organisations including NHS England, the Department of Health, YouTubeHealth, and WHO, contributing to national and global public health campaigns.Recognised with the prestigious Point of Light Award and others, Dr. Sesay is a trusted voice in healthcare, committed to improving outcomes and addressing health inequities.

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  • Dr Anisha Patel is a GP, specializing in women's health, menopause and cancer.

    Anisha received the bombshell diagnosis of bowel cancer at the age of 39. Since then, her energy has been focused on raising awareness of bowel cancer while sharing her own story, from diagnosis through life after cancer, initially through her popular Instagram account, @doctorsgetcancertoo. Today, she is an author, speaker, campaigner, and health content creator/educator. 

    Her debut book, Everything You Hoped You'd Never Need to Know About Bowel Cancer, was an Amazon bestseller. 

    Anisha appears regularly as an onscreen TV doctor on ITV’s Lorraine, as well as BBC, ITV news, and Talk TV. She has also be featured in podcasts, magazines, and print media, breaking health taboos and talking all things health, women’s health, and cancer. 

    Anisha has taken part in a variety of health and cancer-related campaigns, including for the NHS and for charities, working alongside them and using her unique perspective as both patient and doctor and addressing health inequalities. 

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  •  Dr Liz O’Riordan she was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer whilst working as a consultant breast surgeon in 2015 aged just 40. Her first book, ‘The Complete Guide to Breast Cancer: How to Feel Empowered and Take Control’, was her way of helping women when a local recurrence forced her to retire. She’s of the top 100 Female Key Opinion Leaders in Oncology to follow on social media and continues to help patient with her podcast and YouTube channel. Her latest book ’The Cancer Roadmap’ explains what cancer is, what causes it and how it should be treated, along with a healthy dose of myth-busting. 

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  • Dr Philippa Kaye is a GP, media doctor and author, writing about topics including women's health, sexual health and children's health.  She is the author of the bestselling Doctors Get Cancer Too, her memoir of being a doctor and a patient with bowel cancer; Breasts - The Owner's Guide and most recently The Science of Menopause.  She is a regular face on the television due to her skill at translating medicalese into simple, understandable English! 

    @drphilippakaye on insta/threads

     www.drphilippakaye.com 

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  • Stephanie O’Donohue has spent over 20 years working in communications and engagement. Following a traumatic experience during a gynaecological procedure, and driven by a strong belief in the power of collaboration, she founded TIGER UK. She now leads the organisation in creating safe spaces and opportunities for patients, healthcare professionals and researchers to come together, and work collectively toward meaningful improvements in care. 

    TIGER UK stands for Together Improving Gynaecology Experiences and Research. It is a social enterprise set up to help improve patient experiences through collaborative working and combined insight. The vision is that positive experiences become standard, and no one leaves an appointment with avoidable trauma.  

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  • Aylin Baysan is a Professor in Cariology in relation to Minimally Invasive Dentistry at Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London (QMUL).

    Beyond her research and teaching, Professor Baysan is a passionate advocate for public engagement and health awareness, particularly in the oral-systemic health connection. She has been actively involved in raising awareness about the link between oral health and diabetes, working with healthcare professionals and communities to enhance understanding and improve health outcomes. Her work is also deeply rooted in Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), where she strives to promote inclusive dental education, positive and equitable work environment for everyone to flourish. Through leadership, mentorship, and policy engagement, Aylin is passionate about a more inclusive and accessible future for everyone in clinical academia.  

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  • Lavina Mehta MBE, founder of Feel Good With Lavina, is a 47-year-old Personal Trainer, Bestselling Author of the book “The Feel Good Fix,” a Wellness Coach, TED Speaker and mum to three. Lavina was awarded an MBE for services to health and fitness during Covid-19. Her mission is to help all ages (Feel Good physically, mentally and reduce risks of common chronic diseases through her concept of “Exercise Snacking” & free YouTube workouts - as seen on TV & Radio she does every week with her 78 year old Mother in Law.  Lavina runs workplace wellness events and talks to help encourage easy movement and lifestyle solutions in our busy lifestyles. 

    Lavina is a Patron of the Menopause Mandate.  Lavina is a proud Ambassador for Diabetes UK, Wellbeing of Women, Age UK and Alzheimer’s Society.  She has a social media following of over 180k @feelgoodwithlavina 

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  • Dr Fiona McCarthy is a Consultant Medical Oncologist with specialist expertise in the dermatological side effects of cancer treatment.Alongside her oncology practice, she is the Founder and Medical Director of The Bronte Clinic in London, a specialist dermatology and aesthetics clinic committed to evidence-based skin health. Dr McCarthy was awarded aPhD from the University of London in 2017 for her research into immune cell behaviour in cancer. She serves on the Medical Advisory Board for Future Dreams Breast Cancer Charity and is a Key Opinion Leader for La Roche-Posay, supporting their partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support and contributing to national patient-education initiatives. A dedicated advocate for empowering patients, Dr McCarthy is passionate about providing clear, practical guidance to help people understand and care for their skin at every stage of life, including before, during and after cancer treatment.

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  • Hair Expert Jasmin is The UK’s leading cancer treatment related hair loss expert and the only hairdresser to become an NHS Nurse Educator.

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  • Dannielle is a qualified Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor with extensive experience supporting individuals and families through life's most challenging moments. 

    Dannielle has worked at the Fountain Centre since 2014, an independent cancer support charity based at The Royal Surrey Hospital in Guildford, where she is the Psychological Support Service Lead. She manages a team of 24 volunteer counsellors and developed the Centre's family and children's service to support parents navigating difficult conversations with their children about cancer, including end of life care. During COVID-19, she delivered psychological support to NHS staff across multiple departments and disciplines and provides ongoing clinical supervision to Clinical Nurse Specialists.  

    Alongside her work at the Fountain Centre, Dannielle runs a private practice where she supports children and young adults facing emotional and developmental challenges, as well as adults navigating the complexities of caring roles, careers, and their own emotional wellbeing. Dannielle also provides consultancy services to a range of corporate organisations and charities, including Future Dreams. 

  • Rosie Taylor is an award-winning freelance journalist, specialising in women’s health. She write for publications including The Times, the Independent, the Telegraph, the Guardian, the Daily Mail and the i paper, and is the host of Mother Bodies, the podcast about postnatal health and why it matters.

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  • Paula Briggs is a Consultant in Sexual and Reproductive Health based at 
    Liverpool Women’s NHS Foundation Trust. 
    She is Immediate Past Chair of the British Menopause Society. 

    Paula qualified from University of Glasgow in 1987.  She trained as a GP before moving to Liverpool in 1993 and worked in General Practice and Sexual Health until 2012. She is now devoted to delivery of women’s health care, research and education. Her main interest is menopause management with a particular 
    interest in urogenital atrophy. 
    She has co-edited 3 books, (one second edition), co-written an undergraduate textbook in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, a revision guide for MFSRH and a book specifically for men about female hormones. She has also written a patient booklet on menopause (second edition). She co-authored a myth busting book on contraception for the lay public and is working on a similar menopause patient book with colleagues currently. She also has 2 new 
    patient booklets, one co-authored on sexual and reproductive health after 
    gynaecological cancer and the other on urogenital atrophy. 


  • Dr Kanji is a consultant dermatologist at St John's Institute of Dermatology at Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust and University Hospital Lewisham. Alongside her NHS practice, she works at the Cadogan Clinic and the Bronte Clinic, both in London.

    She treats adults and children of all ages with a range of conditions including eczema, psoriasis, acne, vitiligo, pigmentation disorders and hair loss as well as performing skin cancer screening, mole checks and skin surgery.

    She studied Medicine at King's College London, undertook specialist dermatology training in London and has gained international experience at The Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard University. She went on to complete a senior fellowship in at St John's Institute of Dermatology specialising in all aspects of paediatric dermatology. Dr Kanji also holds a degree in Natural Sciences and a PhD in Molecular Microbiology from the University of Cambridge.

    She is passionate about advancing treatments in dermatology empowering people to optimise their skin health. She has contributed to leading research and clinical trials, published widely in peer-reviewed journals and has been appointed to the Medical Advisory Board of the National Eczema Society.

  • Clio is a women’s health advocate, journalist and author. She is the founder of CensHERship, a campaign that aims to tackle social media censorship of women’s health and sexual wellbeing content.


  • Shakira Akabusi is an author, popular social media influencer and pre and postnatal exercise specialist who is on a mission to dispel negative stereotypes and outdated myths of what motherhood is like. Empowering and supporting women to be confident physically and emotionally throughout their pregnancy, Shakira has founded the StrongLikeMum online community, where she shares positive experiences and promotes a healthy lifestyle encompassing the outdoors and physical activity.

    As an ambassador for the ReThink Mental Illness Charity, Shakira is very open about her mental health journey. Her book - The Strong Like Mum Method, delves into the female body and mind during pregnancy and postpartum.


  • Dr Kanji is a consultant dermatologist at St John's Institute of Dermatology at Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust and University Hospital Lewisham. Alongside her NHS practice, she works at the Cadogan Clinic and the Bronte Clinic, both in London.

    She treats adults and children of all ages with a range of conditions including eczema, psoriasis, acne, vitiligo, pigmentation disorders and hair loss as well as performing skin cancer screening, mole checks and skin surgery.

    She studied Medicine at King's College London, undertook specialist dermatology training in London and has gained international experience at The Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard University. She went on to complete a senior fellowship in at St John's Institute of Dermatology specialising in all aspects of paediatric dermatology. Dr Kanji also holds a degree in Natural Sciences and a PhD in Molecular Microbiology from the University of Cambridge.

    She is passionate about advancing treatments in dermatology empowering people to optimise their skin health. She has contributed to leading research and clinical trials, published widely in peer-reviewed journals and has been appointed to the Medical Advisory Board of the National Eczema Society.

  • Julianne Boutaleb CPsychol AFBPsS, Consultant Perinatal Psychologist

    Julianne is the Clinical Director and Founder of the Parenthood In Mind practice . She is a passionate and highly experienced perinatal psychologist who has worked for 25 years in the NHS and private practice with individuals and couples struggling with fertility issues, miscarriage, stillbirth, reproductive loss and trauma.

    www.parenthoodinmind.co.uk

  • Samantha is a pelvic floor physiotherapist and Trustee of the MASIC foundation. She currently works for Hillingdon Hospital as part of a multidisciplinary team working within a Perinatal Pelvic Health Clinic. She helped set this clinic up from inception in June 2022 and is currently treating patients within this clinic with complex pelvic floor dysfunction.

    She specialises in the treatment of OASI, sexual pain and bowel dysfunction. She has previously spoken on behalf of the International Urogynecological Association, the Bladder and Bowel Foundation and the International Continence Society.

    In addition to her clinical practice, she lectures for the undergraduate program BSc Physiotherapy at St Marys University .


  • Dr Elizabeth (Liza) Ball is a London-based Consultant Gynaecologist with over 30 years’ experience, specialising in endometriosis, chronic pelvic pain, advanced hysteroscopy, and minimally invasive surgery. Her research focuses on co-production with women, pain management in gynaecology, holistic approaches, and endometriosis. She is known for compassionate, evidence-based care in both NHS and private practice.

MENOPAUSE TENT SPEAKERS

  • Professor Dame Lesley Regan is a consultant gynaecologist and Professor at St Mary’s, Imperial College London. Her specialist interests include miscarriage, pregnancy complications, contraception, menstrual disorders, fibroids, and menopause. She is the UK’s first Women’s Health Ambassador and leads at Wellbeing of Women and Welbeck.

  • Dr Ellie Rashid is a consultant dermatologist at St John’s Institute of Dermatology, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust. She consults on all aspects of dermatology, including paediatric dermatology, acne, rosacea, eczema, psoriasis, pigmentation disorders and vitiligo, and is clinical lead for the complex medical dermatology tertiary hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) service.

  • Professor Dennis Chan is an academic neurologist and an international authority on the early detection of Alzheimer's disease. He leads a research team work at the UCL Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience while his clinical work is based at University Hospitals Sussex NHS Trust where he runs a specialist memory clinic. His clinical focus is mild cognitive impairment and early Alzheimer's disease.

  • Dr Saira Hameed is a consultant endocrinologist. She works within the Imperial Weight Centre, St Mary’s Hospital London, a world-class centre of excellence for weight management and within the Imperial Centre for Endocrinology which has an international reputation for clinical and academic excellence in endocrinology.

  • Miss Anokha Joseph is a consultant breast surgeon with advanced training in surgical leadership and oncoplastic surgery. She holds academic appointments as Assistant Professor at St George's University and is one of ten nationally selected Emerging Leaders at the Royal College of Surgeons of England.

  • Miss Neha Sihra is a consultant urological surgeon working at The Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust. She specialises in male and female lower urinary tract symptoms, neuro-urology, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and reconstructive urology (including open and robotic procedures). She has expertise in the investigation and treatment of male and female urinary incontinence, bladder dysfunction, neuro-urology, bladder pain and urinary tract infections

  • Dr Victoria Swale is a consultant dermatologist specialising in moles, lesions, skin cancer and vulval disease. Dr Swale is also a consultant dermatologist at the Royal Free London NHS Trust. She has a special interest in the diagnosis of moles and other benign and malignant skin lesions using dermoscopy, and the use of mole mapping for monitoring. She also has a special interest in the management of vulval conditions such as lichen sclerosus.

  • Prof Leschziner is a consultant neurologist and professor of neurology and sleep medicine. He runs general neurology clinics, as well as specialist sleep and epilepsy clinics. For over a decade, he developed one of the leading multidisciplinary sleep services at Guy's Hospital. In addition to his clinical practice, he is active in public communication and medical education, as an author of several books and presenter for the BBC.

  • Miss Palmer is a specialist consultant gynaecologist. She is unique in her vulval disease expertise and is an accredited Advanced British Menopause Specialist and BMS/FSRH Menopause Trainer. At Welbeck, Miss Palmer and her multidisciplinary colleagues provide a comprehensive Menopause, Vulva, Ano-genital and HPV service.

  • Dr Kapil Bhargava is a consultant dermatologist specialising in skin cancer, hair and nail disorders, Mohs and dermatological surgery, cosmetic and laser dermatology. Dr Bhargava is also a consultant dermatologist at Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospital, where he is the Lead for Skin Cancer and Dermatologic Surgery, and The Royal London Hospital, where he founded and is the Lead of the Mohs micrographic surgery unit.

  • Ms Shamim Umarji is a consultant orthopaedic surgeon with a specialist interest in the Hand and Wrist and Sports injuries. She is also the Clinical Director for the Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics at St George’s Hospital.

  • Dr Aaisha Opel is an award-winning, highly experienced consultant cardiologist, electrophysiologist and medical director of Heart Health. She consults on all aspects of cardiology, investigating palpitation, chest pain, breathlessness, dizziness, collapse, as well as screening and risk factor control, autonomic dysfunction and women’s health.

  • Dr. Simrat Marwah is the medical director of Welbeck’s Health Assessment and Longevity Centre. She has extensive experience in various medical specialities, encompassing both acute and chronic adult and paediatric medicine. She has worked in private practice for almost a decade and takes a very personalised approach to patient care.

  • Lauren Mishcon and Nicole Goodman are authors and hosts of the award-winning podcast Self Care Club and its new sister show, 40ish. Whether they’re trialling bizarre wellness trends or navigating the glorious mess of midlife, their dynamic is effortless and electric: best friends with razor-sharp wit, unfiltered opinions, and the kind of chemistry you can’t fake. It’s this rare balance—between real-life vulnerability and laugh-out-loud comedy—that’s earned them accolades, loyal listeners, and critical acclaim.

    40ish was born out of a need for a show that truly reflected what it feels like to be a woman in her late 40s. When they couldn’t find one that balanced honesty with humor, they created it. 40ish dives into the chaos of midlife—teens, marriage, dating apps, school gate politics, and hormonal surprises—with raw conversations and real laughter.

    Not comedians, just best friends who make each other (and their listeners) laugh until they cry. Lauren and Nicole believe comedy at this age isn’t just entertainment—it’s survival.

    Since its 2024 launch, 40ish has become a top-charting show in Apple Podcasts’ Personal Stories category. As independent creators, Lauren and Nicole were honored to be selected for the prestigious Apple Podcasts Spotlight Program, and proud to represent Women’s History Month—bringing Women’s midlife stories into the spotlight, exactly where they belong.

    They’re two independent women and podcasters who built something from nothing—and they’re the best friends (and hosts) you never knew you needed.

  • Miss Iranthi Meththananda is an experienced Consultant Gynaecologist, specialising in advanced gynaecology diagnostics, fertility and recurrent pregnancy loss. An expert in advanced pelvic ultrasound, she focuses on achieving earlier and more accurate diagnoses of conditions such as endometriosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome, pelvic pain and heavy bleeding, helping women make sense of symptoms that can often go unexplained for years.

  • Dr Nowlan Selvapatt is a Consultant Hepatologist with specialist expertise in diagnostic and therapeutic upper GI endoscopies (OGD) and diagnostic colonoscopy including polyp removal. Dr Selvapatt is also a Consultant Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust.

BIRTH & BEYOND TENT SPEAKERS

  • Theo Clarke was the Member of Parliament for Stafford. She chaired the first parliamentary inquiry into birth trauma in British history and previously set up the All Party Parliamentary Group on Birth Trauma in the House of Commons. She won 'Political Speech of the Year' at the Parliamentarian of the Year Awards and was included in the Top 100 Women in Westminster in 2024.

  • Dr Anisha Patel is a GP, specializing in women's health, menopause and cancer.

    Anisha received the bombshell diagnosis of bowel cancer at the age of 39. Since then, her energy has been focused on raising awareness of bowel cancer while sharing her own story, from diagnosis through life after cancer, initially through her popular Instagram account, @doctorsgetcancertoo. Today, she is an author, speaker, campaigner, and health content creator/educator. 

    Her debut book, Everything You Hoped You'd Never Need to Know About Bowel Cancer, was an Amazon bestseller. 

    Anisha appears regularly as an onscreen TV doctor on ITV’s Lorraine, as well as BBC, ITV news, and Talk TV. She has also be featured in podcasts, magazines, and print media, breaking health taboos and talking all things health, women’s health, and cancer. 

    Anisha has taken part in a variety of health and cancer-related campaigns, including for the NHS and for charities, working alongside them and using her unique perspective as both patient and doctor and addressing health inequalities. 

  • Founder and Clinical Director of Everywoman Festival

    Julie is a Consultant Colorectal Surgeon & Professor of Surgery in Cardiff with a specialist interest in pelvic floor problems that occur after childbirth and bowel surgery. She has a strong research interest and has published more than 70 peer reviewed papers and is regularly invited to speak nationally and internationally. Julie is a busy mum of three children and a cocker spaniel.

  • We’re delighted to introduce Dr Susie Crowe, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at Barts Health NHS Trust and President of the British Intrapartum Care Society (BICS).

    Susie also serves as the National Workplace Behaviours Adviser for the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) and previously led the joint RCM/RCOG safety programme Each Baby Counts Learn and Support.

    With a wealth of leadership experience – from intrapartum lead and clinical director to regional lead obstetrician for London – Susie is passionate about improving maternity care . She believes that delivering high-quality care starts with creating nurturing, compassionate environments where teams feel safe to thrive.

  • Rosie Taylor is an award-winning freelance journalist, specialising in women’s health. She write for publications including The Times, the Independent, the Telegraph, the Guardian, the Daily Mail and the i paper, and is the host of Mother Bodies, the podcast about postnatal health and why it matters.

  • Julianne Moore is a Partner in the Medical Negligence team at Irwin Mitchell.

    She has specialised in medical negligence for over 15 years and has particular interest and expertise in: 

    Birth injury claims, including cerebral palsy, neonatal deaths and stillbirth.

  • Rebecca Moore is a perinatal psychiatrist who works to support women and birthing people through pregnancy and the postpartum. She is really passionate about reducing the amount of trauma that people can experience related to their birth experience. She is the co-founder of Make Birth Better and a fierce advocate for compassion and kindness as being central to healthcare. 

  • Anne is a Partner at Irwin Mitchell. She specialises in representing women and children injured through pregnancy, obstetric, or gynaecological treatment as part of her broader clinical negligence caseload.

  • Shakira Akabusi is a pre & postnatal exercise specialist, author, speaker & founder of StrongLikeMum, supporting women with their health throughout pregnancy & motherhood. Aiming to shatter the stereotypes around exercise for women, Shakira is passionate about combining her expertise & personal experience as a mum of 4 to help women lead healthier lives.

  • Laura-Rose is an LGBTQIA+, Maternity and Fertility Activist, educator, writer, seasoned speaker, and campaigner, and a lesbian mother of four donor conceived children by IUI and IVF over fourteen years.  She is both a Biological and Non-Biological mother and has lived experience of operative birth, failed cycles, miscarriage, secondary infertility and birth trauma. She is CEO of Make Birth Better and Founder of LGBT Mummies and has trained and lectured across the NHS, University of Cambridge and other Universities, and works with the Government and created systemic change across reproductive health for LGBTQIA+ people and other marginalised communities. She holds multiple roles across NHSE, RCOG, UCL, HFEA, MMHA, influencing change to create equity and equality. 

  • Neelam Heera-Shergill is a decolonising health advocate and CEO of Cysters, an award winning charity working at the intersection of reproductive justice, racial justice and health equity. Her work centres the collective liberation of communities often missing from mainstream health discourse, particularly those facing systemic barriers shaped by colonial legacies, caste, racism and misogyny.

    Through Cysters, Neelam leads work on tackling health inequalities, advancing reparative approaches and ensuring communities are not just included but are leading research, policy and service design. She works closely with researchers and policymakers to challenge extractive practices and embed lived experience as expertise.

    Her leadership has been recognised with national awards including Pride of Britain and Point of Light, and she is a trusted voice in shaping more equitable, accountable healthcare systems

  • Maria Elliott is a pioneering women’s health physiotherapist, educator, and founder of the globally recognised Mummy MOT® post-natal programme. With over three decades of clinical experience, Maria is committed to improving maternal care and over 10 years ago created a gold-standard assessment and rehabilitation approach for women following childbirth. 

    Driven by passion and at the heart of Maria’s work is a simple belief: every woman deserves to feel heard, supported, and confident in her body. She is committed to empowering women with knowledge, confidence, and practical tools to restore their bodies, reconnect with themselves, and thrive throughout motherhood and into the longevity of a women's life. As a passionate maternity health advocate, she champions improved standards in maternal care and continues to actively engage in conversations and initiatives that ensure women receive the recovery, respect, and support they deserve. 

  • 'Poised, powerful, and profoundly human, Kreena Dhiman is a keynote speaker, advocate and mother of four, including triplets. Her journey spans cancer-related infertility, egg donation and the loss of a genetic link, surrogacy, and early menopause. As a non-birthing mother, she speaks candidly about the emotional and practical complexities of building a family beyond traditional paths.

    Through her signature framework, The Art of Being Brave - the courage to accept what we cannot change, Kreena helps audiences navigate cultural nuance, embrace change, and elevate their wellbeing through resilience, acceptance, and vulnerability.'

  • Julianne is the Clinical Director and Founder of the Parenthood In Mind practice and an Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Society. She is a passionate and highly experienced perinatal psychologist who has worked for 25 years in the NHS and private practice with individuals and couples struggling with fertility issues, miscarriage, stillbirth, reproductive loss and trauma. 

    She specialises in supporting those pregnant and parenting following ART (IVF, ICSI, donor conception, surrogacy) or adoption. She also writes and lectures on these issues, and contributes regularly to press articles in The Telegraph, Daily Mail and Guardian on parenting and parental mental health. She has appeared on BBC4 Woman's Hour, BBC Radio 5 and Channel 5 to offer expert opinion 

    on mothering after bereavement, infertility and donor conception, matresence and postnatal depression. 

    She was a nominee for Best Fertility Psychologist awarded by the European Fertility Society in 2025, and was honoured with the Equity in Perinatal Mental Health award at the Women who Decolonise Event 

    held in the House of Commons in 2026. 


  • Scott Mair is the Founder and Director of Fatherhood Solutions, a UK-wide organisation working across health services, local authorities, and community systems to improve outcomes for families by ensuring fathers are meaningfully included from pregnancy through early childhood and beyond. 

    A former infantry soldier, husband, father of seven boys, and grandfather, Scott brings both lived experience and professional insight into his work. His journey into this space is deeply personal, shaped by his family’s experience of birth trauma and the lasting impact it had on both parents and children. That experience has driven his commitment to improving how services understand and respond to the needs of the whole family. 

    Scott now works nationally with maternity services, Family Hubs, NHS Trusts, and government programmes including Start for Life, supporting the development of father-inclusive practice. His work focuses on paternal mental health, the transition into fatherhood, and the role fathers play in maternal wellbeing, infant development, and family outcomes. 

    He is an advisor on birth trauma through his involvement in national discussions and has contributed to conversations at policy level, including parliamentary engagement on family support systems. Scott is also an experienced public speaker, regularly delivering training, workshops, and keynote sessions to professionals across the UK. 

    At the Everywoman Festival, Scott will bring a father’s perspective to the discussion on the physiological impact of childbirth—exploring how birth experiences affect not only mothers, but partners and the wider family system. His approach is grounded, honest, and focused on improving understanding, connection, and outcomes for all involved. 

  • Dr Kim Thomas is CEO of the Birth Trauma Association, a charity that supports parents experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder after birth. She was also the secretariat for the all-party parliamentary group (APPG) inquiry into birth trauma, and wrote the inquiry report, which was published in May 2024 to wide acclaim from both government and opposition politicians, as well as policymakers and professional bodies such as RCOG and RCM.  

    Kim has also published two well-received books about birth trauma. Birth Trauma: A Guide for You, Your Friends and Family to Coping with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Following Birth and Postnatal PTSD: a Guide for Health Professionals. 

  • Hannah Barnes is Investigations Editor at the New Statesman, where she focuses on the topics and stories shaping the world we live in. An award-winning journalist, she spent 15 years at the BBC specialising in analytical and investigative journalism on both television – for BBC Newsnight – and radio. Hannah produced, edited and reported for many of Radio 4’s best known news and current affairs shows. She is the author of Sunday Times Bestseller, Time to Think: The Inside Story of the Collapse of the Tavistock’s Gender Service for Children.

    England’s maternity crisis is in desperate need of reform, and Hannah Barnes has already established herself as the reporter best placed to deliver it, exposed legal gaps that left bereaved families without answers, and stayed with those families long enough to ensure the promises made to them were kept

WOMEN LIKE ME SPEAKERS

  • Dawn Heels, a multi-award-winning advocate, raises awareness of uterine fibroids online, in person, and through initiatives like My Fibroid Journey and her not-for-profit, The Guidance Suite. Featured by BBC and Sky News, she informs and campaigns for change, empowering women globally to take control of their womb health through education and support.

  • Miss Srividya Seshadri is a highly accomplished medical professional with dual accreditation in Obstetrics and Gynaecology and a sub-specialist in Reproductive Medicine and Surgery. She holds an MBBS, MD, FRCOG, MSC, and is a Fellow of Clinical Reproductive Immunology with the American Society for Reproductive Immunology.

    Currently, she works as a Consultant Gynaecologist and Sub-specialist in Reproductive Medicine & Surgery at Aria fertility clinic, Nuffield Health and Lycahealth, as well as an Honorary Associate Professor at University College London since 2019.

    She is also the lead for the Embryo Transfer and IUI module for the British Fertility Society. She is an elected member of the British Fertility Society executive committee. Dr Seshadri is a trustee of the Endometriosis Foundation charity.

    Her special interests include preconceptual care, recurrent miscarriages, recurrent implantation failure, reproductive endocrinology, reproductive immunology, advanced maternal age management, paternal age effects on IVF outcomes, male infertility, genomics in reproductive medicine, fertility preservation, and reproductive health with a diagnosis of endometriosis.

  • Dr. Caroline Selai is a Psychologist and Psychological Therapist based in the department of Uro-neurology, The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery. Also Honorary Associate Professor, UCL..

    She is Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Society (AFBPsS) and is a Senior Accredited member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).

    She set up a psychology service in the department of Uro-neurology and has a number of peer-reviewed publications in this field.

    Her clinical and research interests include Fowler’s Syndrome, Functional Neurological Disorder and stakeholder involvement in research

     

  • Patricia M Ortega is a consultant general and upper gastrointestinal surgeon at St Marys Hospital, Imperial College London. She has extensive international training across Spain, the United States, France, and the UK. She specialises in bariatric, metabolic, and minimally invasive surgery, with expertise in hernia and anti-reflux procedures. A former consultant at the University Clinic of Navarra and fellow at St Mary’s Hospital, London, she is dedicated to patient-centred, compassionate care.


  • Caroline Andrews works as a family solicitor and was diagnosed with PMOS (formerly PCOS) in 2002. As a volunteer trustee for Verity the national PMOS charity she undertakes a wide range of patient advocacy activities. Verity has established the all party parliamentary group for PMOS, undertaken a James Lind Alliance priority setting partnership and is the co applicant in the global change of PCOS to PMOS. 

  • Gwen Crabb is a Welsh International Rugby Player and Content Creator. She was diagnose with Stage 4 Endometriosis in December 2024.

  • Carla Cressy OBE is the Founder and Chief Executive of The Endometriosis Foundation, a UK charity dedicated to improving awareness, support, and care for those living with endometriosis. Carla has been a long-standing advocate for change in women’s health and works closely with clinicians, policymakers and organisations across the UK to improve education, diagnosis, and support pathways. She also contributes to national guidance as part of the Patient Decision Aid work with the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).

    Instagram @carlacressy @theendometriosisfoundation 

  • Danielle Coombe is the Founder of Fowler’s Syndrome UK, a patient-led charity dedicated to working to transform care, research, and awareness for Fowler’s Syndrome and chronic idiopathic urinary retention (CIUR), conditions which primarily affect women and those assigned female at birth.

    Following her own lived experience of the condition, Danielle established the organisation to ensure women feel seen, heard, and better supported throughout their healthcare journey. She is a passionate advocate for women’s health, working to break stigma around complex and often misunderstood conditions, while championing earlier diagnosis, better treatment pathways, and greater recognition of the patient voice in healthcare.

    Through her work with Fowler’s Syndrome UK, Danielle collaborates with clinicians, researchers, and the wider community to create meaningful change. Her interests include patient advocacy, healthcare inequalities, community building, and driving research into under-recognised women’s health conditions.

  • Prof Charles Knowles is Lead for Colorectal Surgery at Cleveland Clinic London and Professor of Surgery at Queen Mary University of London. Prof Knowles has been a Consultant Colorectal surgeon at Barts Health NHS Trust since 2006 having qualified from Cambridge University in 1992. He is regarded as a key international opinion leader on pelvic floor disorders and GI neuromuscular diseases including common functional colorectal conditions such as chronic constipation and faecal incontinence.

    His track record of delivering high-quality research and of shaping clinical practice is evidenced by multiple national and international leadership roles including becoming the inaugural Clinical Director of Research for Cleveland Clinic London.

    Prof Knowles has published extensively in scientific journals (> 270 peer-reviewed papers) and major textbooks. He lives in Whitechapel, London with his wife, two children, two dogs, cat and collection of guitars. He is also a music artist, songwriter and author.


  • Dr Mehrnoosh (Mez) Aref-Adib is a Consultant Gynaecologist working at Whipps Cross Hospital and London Gynaecology. She specialises in minimally invasive and robotic surgery, with particular expertise in the management of fibroids, offering personalised care to help women achieve the best possible outcomes. 

    She is passionate about teaching and research, and is committed to empowering women through education and clear, compassionate guidance. 

  • Bassel is an Associate Professor of Reproductive Medicine and a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at the Beginnings Assisted Conception Unit - Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals in London.  

    He is an RCOG accredited Subspecialist in Reproductive Medicine and surgery with a specialist interest in endocrine gynaecology, IVF, minimal access surgery and menopause.  

    He leads the Clinical Trials Unit at Anglia Ruskin University with a special focus on delivering high quality trials that directly address the everyday health needs of patients in the NHS. He also co-leads the EVIE Evidence Synthesis Research group at University College London which is focused on delivering high quality applied clinical research in women’s health with a special focus on PCOS, heavy periods, fibroid management, IVF technology, and menopause (https://rb.gy/7sie). Several of his research outputs have been featured in international news outlets and led to significant improvements in women’s health worldwide.  

  • Michael Powar was appointed as a Consultant Colorectal, Laparoscopic and General Surgeon at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in 2012 following prestigious specialist fellowships at the world-renowned St Marks and Royal Brisbane Hospitals. He has worked in the NHS for 25 years with over 10 years of Consultant specialist experience running a busy clinical practice. He is the Specialty Lead for Colorectal Surgery at Addenbrooke’s Hospital and Lead for Undergraduate Colorectal teaching at the University of Cambridge Medical School. He is current Vice-President of the Royal Society of Medicine Coloproctology Section.

  • Mr Arvind Vashisht is a highly respected, leading consultant gynaecologist based in London. He is the clinical lead for gynaecology at University College Hospital London and is an honorary associate professor at University College London. He is also the chair of the Endometriosis Centres for the British Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy.

    Mr Vashisht, who consults privately at Cleveland Clinic London Endometriosis Unit, specialises in the treatment of endometriosis, pelvic floor disorders, menstrual and hormonal disorders, urinary incontinence, urinary tract infections, vaginal prolapse, and pelvic pain. Additionally, he also has subspecialist expertise in minimal access surgery, including laparoscopy, and is co-director of a national training program for advanced minimal access surgery.

    He has active research interests in endometriosis and pelvic floor disorders and has published extensively in numerous peer-reviewed journals on the matter. Mr Vashisht also supervises several students completing higher degrees in gynaecology and has written an updated curriculum for the training program for advanced laparoscopic surgery in the UK.

    Mr Vashisht lectures nationally and internationally and is an invited expert for conferences. He writes expert witness medicolegal reports in his specialist areas. He is a member of the governance committee for the British Society for Urogynaecology and sits on the council of the Royal Society of Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynaecology section.

GUT HUT SPEAKERS

  • Monica Lyons is an accomplished Advanced Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) in Constipation and Bowel Dysfunction based in London, UK. She currently serves as a core member of the key clinical staff within the Gastroenterology Department at King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and provides private care through The London Bridge Hospital. 

    Throughout her career, which includes extensive tenure at the Pelvic Floor Unit for Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, she has established herself as a leading clinical expert, researcher, and educator in the non-surgical management of functional bowel disorders.

  • Brigitte has over 25 years’ experience in the field of bowel dysfunction. Her career has progressed from working within an acute colorectal ward to becoming a CNS in Stoma Care and up until just over 5 years ago was the Lead Nurse within the Biofeedback service at St Marks Hospital, London for 14 years, where she was able to complete an MSc in GI nursing and degree module for Nurse Prescribing.

    Since 2018 she has taken up the post of clinical education and is now ‘Head of Clinical Education’ for Qufora Ltd.

  • Emma Carrington is an academic consultant colorectal surgeon with a specialist practice in pelvic floor disorders, neurogastroenterology and inflammatory bowel disease.

    She works in St Marys Hospital and is a Senior Lecturer at Imperial College London.

  • Kim Gorissen is an Oxford-based consultant colorectal surgeon with expertise in bowel health, pelvic floor disorders, and minimally invasive surgery. She is actively involved with the Pelvic Floor Society, supporting education and advances in pelvic health care. Passionate about improving awareness around digestive wellbeing, she speaks on prevention, symptoms, screening, and practical approaches to maintaining lifelong bowel and pelvic health

  • Samantha is a pelvic floor physiotherapist and Trustee of the MASIC foundation. She currently works for Hillingdon Hospital as part of a multidisciplinary team working within a Perinatal Pelvic Health Clinic. She helped set this clinic up from inception in June 2022 and is currently treating patients within this clinic with complex pelvic floor dysfunction.

    She specialises in the treatment of OASI, sexual pain and bowel dysfunction. She has previously spoken on behalf of the International Urogynecological Association, the Bladder and Bowel Foundation and the International Continence Society.

    In addition to her clinical practice, she lectures for the undergraduate program BSc Physiotherapy at St Marys University .

  • Ms Tatenda Marunda is the Lead Advanced Practitioner in the Pelvic Floor Unit. She manages all practitioners in the Physiology and Biofeedback Unit. Having completed Nurse Training with City University in 2006, she has worked at Barts Health NHS Trust since 2004. Post-qualification, she developed a keen interest in gut motility. In 2009 she was appointed as the first Upper GI Physiology Clinical Nurse Specialist under the supervision of Professor Aziz, Professor Daniel Sifrim and Dr Esturo Yazaki.

    To expand her knowledge on Physiology, she joined the Royal London Hospital Functional Bowel Team and Pelvic Floor Unit and worked as a Colorectal Nurse Specialist (CNS) managing a case load of functional conservative bowel and pelvic floor patients. She regularly performed anorectal physiological investigations in the internationally renowned GI Physiology Unit (Colorectal Service) at Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry.

  • Professor James Kinross is a London-based colorectal surgeon, researcher, author and leading expert on the gut microbiome. His work explores how diet, lifestyle, and modern medicine shape digestive health and disease. Passionate about translating science into practical advice, he speaks internationally on microbiome research, prevention, wellbeing, and the future of healthcare. His book, Dark Matter, explores microbes’ profound influence on human health.

CANCER & SURVIVORSHIP SPEAKERS

  • Ms Sarah Mills is a consultant colorectal surgeon specialising in colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease and haemorrhoids. Ms Mills is a JAG accredited endoscopist and is currently developing a specialist practice in interventional endoscopy and cuttingedge techniques for treating complex polyps and early rectal cancers.

  • Jasmin Julia Gupta is an expert in specialist hair care.  She is the only hairdresser to become an NHS nurse educator. Her areas of expertise include hair in recovery due to illness or stress, CIA (Chemotherapy Induced Alopecia), Afro hair and inclusion, Cancer Treatment Induced Alopecia. She is also an expert on hair care topics relating to menopause and pregnancy and general women’s hair care. She is the founder of the charity Caring Hair which includes the Cancer Hair Care service. Jasmin has created a unique approach to hair loss and hair care that she calls her 3’P’s method. 

  • Dr Fiona McCarthy is a Consultant Medical Oncologist with specialist expertise in thedermatological side effects of cancer treatment.Alongside her oncology practice, she is theFounder and Medical Director ofThe Bronte Clinicin London, a specialist dermatology andaesthetics clinic committed to evidence-based skin health.Dr McCarthy was awarded aPhD from the University of London in 2017for her research intoimmune cell behaviour in cancer. She serves on theMedical Advisory Board for Future DreamsBreast Cancer Charityand is aKey Opinion Leader for La Roche-Posay, supporting theirpartnership with Macmillan Cancer Support and contributing to national patient-educationinitiatives.A dedicated advocate for empowering patients, Dr McCarthy is passionate about providingclear, practical guidance to help people understand and care for their skin at every stage of life,including before, during and after cancer treatment

  • Poised, powerful, and profoundly human, Kreena Dhiman is a keynote speaker, advocate and mother of four, including triplets. Her journey spans cancer-related infertility, egg donation and the loss of a genetic link, surrogacy, and early menopause. As a non-birthing mother, she speaks candidly about the emotional and practical complexities of building a family beyond traditional paths.

    Through her signature framework, The Art of Being Brave - the courage to accept what we cannot change, Kreena helps audiences navigate cultural nuance, embrace change, and elevate their wellbeing through resilience, acceptance, and vulnerability.'

  • Lorraine Grover is a London-based Psychosexual Nurse Specialist with expertise in sexual health, intimacy difficulties, and relationship wellbeing. She works with individuals and couples experiencing sexual dysfunction, pain disorders, and post-medical or psychological trauma affecting intimacy. Combining clinical knowledge with a compassionate, therapeutic approach, she provides evidence-based support and education to help patients rebuild confidence, communication, and healthy sexual wellbeing.

EDUCATION SPEAKERS

  • Dr Mandy Leonhardt is a UK based General Practitioner, Menopause Specialist and certified nutritionist. She is the UK’s first ISGE certified Expert Practitioner and the co-author and author of two books: 

    “The Complete Guide to POI and Early Menopause” and “What Every Woman Needs to Know About Her Skin and Hair - How the Hormones on Your Inside Affect You on the Outside”. 

    Dr Leonhardt took part in the Channel 5 program “Women’s Health: Breaking the Taboos”, where she was featured in Episode 2 which covered Perimenopause and Menopause.

  • Suzanne Vernazza is a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist and Founding Director of Know Your Floors - a not-for-profit company aiming to improve awareness and education in pelvic health. Through her work in Know Your Floors She has created the #squeezealong on social media which now has a following of over 630K people on TikTok. Suzanne hopes to dispel myths, get people talking about pelvic health, promote prevention and encourage people to access support for any symptoms they develop. 

  • Molly is a young women’s health advocate and Founder of ‘The Love Your Period Campaign,’ which encourages conversations around stigmatised topics following her own brain tumour diagnosis. By addressing gaps that the support leaflets didn’t cover, Molly helps shape policies and programs in collaboration with her healthboard and third-sector organisations to better support young people with their health.

  • Dr Brooke Vandermolen is a UK-based obstetrics and gynaecology senior resident doctor working in the NHS, with specialist training in paediatric and adolescent gynaecology and benign gynaecological surgery.  Alongside her clinical work, Brooke is an experienced medical content creator and women’s health educator, creating evidence-based content for organisations including the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) and NHS England, as well as for her wider audience on social media as @theobgynmum. She is also the author of 'Bloody Powerful’, her new book, aimed at tackling many of the women’s health taboos with an illustrated guide to health from fertility to contraception and menopause.

  • Dr Frances Yarlett is an NHS GP based in Sheffield with an interest in women's health and contraception. She is also the Medical Director at The Lowdown, an online women's health platform that reaches over two million women annually with credible, science-backed information. A leading voice against contraceptive misinformation, she regularly speaks out about social media's impact on women's health decisions and is frequently quoted in major media on these issues. She is co-author of Contraception: Your Essential Guide to Separating the Myths from the Medicine, drawing on thousands of consultations conducted through The Lowdown and the NHS. @get.the.lowdown 

  • Dr. Aziza Sesay is an award winning GP, Educator, Honorary Senior Clinical Lecturer and medical broadcaster celebrated for her contributions to health education, awareness, and advocacy. As the founder of "Talks with Dr. Sesay," she empowers audiences with evidence-based health information, focusing on women’s health, cancer awareness, mental health, and health inequity. Dr. Sesay serves as Vice Chair and Creative Director of Black Female Doctors UK and is an Ambassador for leading health charities, including The Eve Appeal and Wellbeing of Women. Featured in major media outlets, she is a regular GP on BBC Breakfast. She has also collaborated with numerous organisations including NHS England, the Department of Health, YouTube Health, and WHO, contributing to national and global public health campaigns. Recognised with the prestigious Point of Light Award and others, Dr. Sesay is a trusted voice in healthcare, committed to improving outcomes and addressing health inequities

  • Elizabeth Swan is a Consultant, Coach and Expert Witness specialising in education and neurodiversity, with a particular focus on girls and women with ADHD and AuDHD. Drawing on over twenty years in education, including as headteacher and SENCo, she supports individuals, families and organisations to understand and respond to neurodivergent needs. 

WORKSHOPS HOSTS

  • Claire Callaghan a CHARTERED PHYSIOTHERAPIST with 25+ years experience, specialising female physical health and performance. She bring a unique understanding of women’s needs, aches, pains, stiffness and the common challenges. Her female specific, holistic and practical approach helps women to move well, gain confidence and strength. Website: https://www.clairecallaghan.com/ Social media @PhysioClaireCal 

  • Dr Tamzin Cuming trained at the University of Cambridge and Guy’s and St Thomas’

    Hospitals, completing her surgical training in Brighton and specialist colorectal training in

    North East Thames. She developed a specialist interest in high-resolution anoscopy (HRA)

    at Homerton Hospital and later completed a laparoscopic colorectal fellowship in Plymouth.

    She has been a Consultant Surgeon at Homerton Hospital since 2013, where she

    established and leads the Homerton Anogenital Neoplasia Service (HANS), the UK’s largest

    service of its kind and a national referral centre for HRA. She also leads the Anal Neoplasia

    Clinic at Cleveland Clinic London.

    Dr Cuming is President of the International Anal Neoplasia Society (IANS) and former Chair of the Women in Surgery Forum at the Royal College of Surgeons of England (2021–2024), with a focus on advancing education and innovation in anogenital health.

  • Linia is a leading Dietitian, Sports Nutritionist and public health researcher with extensive experience in several nutrition settings including women’s health, performance nutrition corporate wellness and public health. She is a British Dietetic Association Spokesperson and is regularly seen on appearing on national TV and being quoted in the press. She also has a PhD in Public Health. Her passion is translating nutritional science into easy-to-digest and practical advice. She is the author of the bestselling book Food for Menopause. Outside of work Linia is a big foodie and loves to socialise over good (and nutritious!) food. 

  • Initially a PE teacher, Siobhán’s interest in movement quality and injury prompted her to become a Chartered Physiotherapist, via a Masters degree and a professional sports medicine qualification in the US. All of which stood to her well as both a squad physio and as an international scrum-half!

    More recently, she has pioneered a physiotherapy service as a result of realising the impact of breast weight and movement on health, posture, movement, and performance. Now widely known as “The Bby Physio”, Siobhán’s specialised expertise has led to her becoming a trusted authority in a hugely overlooked and underestimated area of female health, wellbeing and performance.

  • Lucy is a Mindfulness teacher (with a Masters in Teaching Mindfulness) who offers a variety of courses, workshops, and retreats to support individuals and businesses. With a particular interest in mindfulness for cancer support, she teaches at three cancer support centres, working with those affected, including carers and bereaved.

    In addition to her teaching, Lucy hosts a popular podcast called "It's Not That Deep," where she engages in thought-provoking conversations with a psychotherapist. They explore the challenges of being human and offer practical ways to support mental well-being.

    Lucy has been featured in publications such as Bella Magazine, Take a Break Magazine, Daily Express, Daily Mirror and Natural Health Magazine.

  • Elizabeth is a qualified as a solicitor in 2011 and joined Irwin Mitchell in 2012. She has many years of experience in medical negligence claims. As part of a team, she deals with complex and high-value medical negligence claims. Elizabeth represents clients with a range of injuries but have particular interest in claims associated with birth injuries, amputation, neurological injury (including brain and spinal injury), and fatal accidents. she prides herself on being meticulous and compassionate. she aims to give her clients quality advice and the best result possible. 

  • Parnyan is dual-qualified dentist and pharmacist with a passion for accessible health education. She currently works in developing digital learning resources on a wide range of health topics, including cancer at Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust. With a unique perspective at the intersection of oral health, medication and systemic wellbeing, she is interested in highlighting the overlooked connections between oral health and women's health. She focuses her work on making complex topics digestible, relatable and empowering for diverse audiences. 

  • Stable & Strong is a women-only strength studio in Mortlake, London, founded on a simple but powerful idea - that every woman deserves to feel strong in her body, whatever stage of life she’s in. What started as a space specifically for women navigating pelvic floor issues has grown into a thriving community where women of all ages come to lift, move and build confidence.
    The studio is led by co-founders Caragh, Katy and Lizzie, who between them bring decades of experience in strength training, women’s health and fitness coaching. Caragh’s passion for pelvic floor health is personal - her own diagnosis of pelvic organ prolapse set her on a path to understand what women are so rarely told: that pelvic floor dysfunction is common, manageable, and no barrier to living if and training well with the correct care.
    At Everywoman, the Stable & Strong team are bringing that expertise into a practical, no-nonsense workshop on pelvic floor health and strength training - exploring how women can lift, move and build strength with confidence, at every stage of life

  • Illustrator Hazel Mead uses her vibrant, inclusive artwork to start conversations around topics that are often difficult to discuss, inviting audiences to approach one another with empathy and curiosity.

    Her playful visual style and sense of humour help soften the taboo subjects she explores, making difficult conversations more accessible. She loves tugging on both heartstrings and funny bones, a combination that has earned her a dedicated online following who connect deeply with her work.

    Hazel has worked on campaigns and illustration projects for Adobe, Netflix, Plan International, Amnesty International, the Red Cross, VICE and Cambridge University Press, among others. Her practice spans publishing, branding, editorial illustration, packaging design, workshops and demos, illustration for television and large-scale mural painting. 

    Hazel's debut book, Why Aren't We Talking About This?!, was published by Square Peg, Penguin in 2023. In 2024, she delivered a TED Talk exploring the power of illustration. This year also saw the publication of Bloody Powerful!, written by Dr Brooke and illustrated by Hazel which they are so excited to share with the world. 

  • Tina is an experienced Employment Solicitor based in London, advising a wide range of individuals including high profile individuals, senior executives and professionals across all sectors with a particular focus on financial services, media, academia and hospitality.

  • Jo Bee is a dance teacher and choreographer known for her energetic,feel good classes that help women build confidence,let go and reconnect with their bodies.

    Her sessions are inclusive,empowering and all about creating a positive,supportive vibe-no experience needed! 

    Jo has been teaching for over 20 years and thinks dancing is a great way to help improve both your physical and mental health.

  • Sarah is a senior associate solicitor with 18 years' experience of specialising in clinical negligence cases and inquests. 

    She represents children, adults and families in legal investigations and compensation claims arising from life-changing injury, disability or death.  Sarah specialises in cases involving cerebral palsy, brain injury, neonatal harm, birth injury and complex obstetrics as well spinal injuries and amputations. She also have extensive experience in cases involving neurology, delayed diagnosis of cancer, orthopaedics, cardiology and vascular surgery. 

Health Check Zone

  • Katrina qualified as a Speech and Language Therapist from University College London in 1999 and

    later completed her master’s also at UCL. A member of the Royal College of Speech and Language

    Therapists, she has over 20 years of clinical experience across the NHS, as well as 5 years working

    in the private sector. Katrina currently works at Cleveland Clinic London, where she set up the

    innovative and dynamic SLT service from scratch. She provides leadership and mentoring to her

    dedicated team of SLT’s and the wider multidisciplinary team. She has a wealth of expertise working

    across acute and post-acute rehabilitation services, primarily specialising in acquired brain injury, for

    example stroke and traumatic brain injury. She supports patients across the care pathway with

    language, speech, voice and cognitive communication impairments as well as patients with difficulty

    swallowing and those requiring a tracheostomy.

  • Akshya is a highly specialist speech and language therapist who qualified from University College

    London and has completed an Undergraduate and Master's degree in Neurosciences. She is a

    member of the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapy and is registered with the Health and

    Care Professions Council. Aki has worked across the NHS and private sector in a range of different

    specialties including stroke rehab, neurosurgery, oncology, major trauma and critical care. At

    Cleveland Clinic, she specialises in neurosurgery, critical care, complex swallowing disorders and

    respiratory management. She is passionate about raising awareness of speech and language therapy

    to the public and is enthusiastic about advocating for people with communication and swallowing

    difficulties.

  • Aoife is a gut specialist dietitian with over 9 years’ experience, previously working in the NHS before

    joining Cleveland Clinic London in 2023. She leads the outpatient digestive health clinics including a

    focus on women’s health. Aoife works closely with consultants & the wider healthcare team for joint

    and holistic care. She is dedicated to helping individuals navigate complex symptoms, new

    diagnoses, and the often-overwhelming world of conflicting online advice. She works with individuals

    to tailor evidence-based, research-backed approaches that address their unique needs, lifestyle and

    priorities. Aoife has a motivating and practical approach, simplifying complex information to empower

    individuals. Her goals are building confidence around food choices and eating habits to develop a

    healthier relationship around eating while managing their conditions and improve quality of life.

  • Mr Arvind Vashisht is a highly respected, leading consultant gynaecologist based in London.

    He is the clinical lead for gynaecology at University College Hospital London and is an

    honorary associate professor at University College London. He is also the chair of the

    Endometriosis Centres for the British Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy.

    Mr Vashisht, who consults privately at Cleveland Clinic London Endometriosis Unit,

    specialises in the treatment of endometriosis, pelvic floor disorders, menstrual and hormonal

    disorders, urinary incontinence, urinary tract infections, vaginal prolapse, and pelvic pain.

    Additionally, he also has subspecialist expertise in minimal access surgery, including

    laparoscopy, and is co-director of a national training program for advanced minimal access

    surgery.

    He has active research interests in endometriosis and pelvic floor disorders and has

    published extensively in numerous peer-reviewed journals on the matter. Mr Vashisht also

    supervises several students completing higher degrees in gynaecology and has written an

    updated curriculum for the training program for advanced laparoscopic surgery in the UK.

    Mr Vashisht lectures nationally and internationally and is an invited expert for conferences.

    He writes expert witness medicolegal reports in his specialist areas. He is a member of the

    governance committee for the British Society for Urogynaecology and sits on the council of

    the Royal Society of Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynaecology section.

  • Dr Tamzin Cuming trained at the University of Cambridge and Guy’s and St Thomas’

    Hospitals, completing her surgical training in Brighton and specialist colorectal training in

    North East Thames. She developed a specialist interest in high-resolution anoscopy (HRA)

    at Homerton Hospital and later completed a laparoscopic colorectal fellowship in Plymouth.

    She has been a Consultant Surgeon at Homerton Hospital since 2013, where she

    established and leads the Homerton Anogenital Neoplasia Service (HANS), the UK’s largest

    service of its kind and a national referral centre for HRA. She also leads the Anal Neoplasia

    Clinic at Cleveland Clinic London.

    Dr Cuming is President of the International Anal Neoplasia Society (IANS) and former Chair

    of the Women in Surgery Forum at the Royal College of Surgeons of England (2021–2024),

    with a focus on advancing education and innovation in anogenital health.

  • Bini Suresh is a Highly Specialist Dietitian and Head of Dietetics and Therapy Services at CCL with

    more than 20 years of experience across clinical nutrition, service leadership, and multidisciplinary

    healthcare. Known for combining evidence-based nutrition with warmth, realism, and a refreshingly

    human approach, she has built a reputation for making complex health conversations accessible both

    within healthcare and in the media.

    Alongside leading dietetic and therapy services at Cleveland Clinic London, Bini has specialist

    interests in weight management, women’s health and preventative medicine. She has played a key

    role in developing innovative nutrition and therapy pathways, VIP patient services, and

    multidisciplinary models of care focused on improving long-term patient outcomes.

    Bini is a media spokesperson for the British Dietetic Association and regularly contributes expert

    commentary across national media, including the BBC, The Telegraph and wellness publications,

    discussing topics ranging from GLP-1 medications and gut health to sustainable lifestyle change and

    women’s metabolic health.

    She is also a member of the BDA Professional Committee and contributes to national work

    surrounding public health nutrition, workforce development and professional education. She has

    additionally hosted an episode for Cleveland Clinic London’s “Exploring Health” podcast, interviewing

    leading experts on sustainable wellbeing, lifestyle medicine and modern healthcare.

    Outside of her leadership and clinical work, Bini is passionate about mentoring, public speaking,

    service innovation and championing the visibility and impact of dietitians within modern healthcare.

    She is particularly recognised for blending high-level clinical expertise with authenticity, humour and

    compassion whether she is supporting critically unwell patients, leading teams, speaking in the media,

    or talking about nutrition over coffee.

  • Prof Charles Knowles is Lead for Colorectal Surgery at Cleveland Clinic London and

    Professor of Surgery at Queen Mary University of London. Prof Knowles has been a

    Consultant Colorectal surgeon at Barts Health NHS Trust since 2006 having qualified from

    Cambridge University in 1992. He is regarded as a key international opinion leader on pelvic

    floor disorders and GI neuromuscular diseases including common functional colorectal

    conditions such as chronic constipation and faecal incontinence.

    His track record of delivering high-quality research and of shaping clinical practice is

    evidenced by multiple national and international leadership roles including becoming the

    inaugural Clinical Director of Research for Cleveland Clinic London.

    Prof Knowles has published extensively in scientific journals (> 270 peer-reviewed papers)

    and major textbooks. He lives in Whitechapel, London with his wife, two children, two dogs,

    cat and collection of guitars. He is also a music artist, songwriter and author.