Cumbria’s successful She Leads female mentorship programme has officially launched for a second year - with nine senior business leaders from across the region joining the 2026 programme as mentors.
The female-led initiative was created by NRL, working in partnership with in-Cumbria magazine, to ensure women from across the region had the opportunity to take part in a 12-month mentorship programme.
The aim of She Leads is to connect female business leaders with those who are looking for support to progress their careers or small businesses. Mentors commit two hours per month of their time to meet with their mentees, but how they spend that time is left for them to determine together.
This approach drove fantastic results in the programme’s first year, including mentees securing new jobs and significant growth in their businesses.
NRL’s Rebecca Graves, who has spearheaded the programme, said: "I have been fortunate to spend much of my career within Cumbria’s fantastic business community, where I’ve been inspired by the female leaders shaping our economy.
"They were at the heart of the She Leads mentor programme, which aims to give female business leaders a platform to share their expertise and support others looking to progress.
"It’s something I’m deeply passionate about, and I know many other business leaders share that desire to help.
"Through She Leads, we hope to create mutually beneficial relationships that help raise up Cumbria and support women who are keen to progress but may need guidance or extra support to take their career to the next level."
The She Leads team have also secured the continued support of Sharon Brook, sales director at North Lakes Hotel and Spa and Langdale Chase Hotel. Sharon took part in the first cohort and will be on hand to help new mentors with any support they need to navigate conversations with their mentees.
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Introducing the 2026 mentors
Rebecca Graves, director at NRL
Rebecca Graves oversees the strategic direction of NRL’s operations in Cumbria, supporting engineering clients across the region with technical recruitment and compliance solutions. Born in Cumbria, Rebecca has been a keen advocate for diversity in the nuclear sector for over two decades, ensuring women are represented meaningfully in STEM roles.
‘When we embarked on the first She Leads cohort last year, our aim was to ensure our mentees gained valuable experiences and insight. What quickly became clear, was just how much our mentors were taking away from the experience, which I personally resonated with. I thoroughly enjoyed our mentor partnership last year and look forward to making meaningful progress with my 2026 mentee.’
Emily Wood, sales director North West at LOCALiQ
With over 20 years of experience in commercial leadership, Emily has built a career from frontline sales roles through to sales director, leading large, high-performing teams across Cumbria, Lancashire, Cheshire and North Wales. Throughout her journey, she has gained extensive experience in sales management, business development, customer retention, organisational change and talent development.
‘I am passionate about helping others grow their careers, sharing practical leadership insights, and supporting people to navigate challenges, build confidence and achieve their professional ambitions. My mentoring approach combines real-world experience with honest, supportive guidance.’
Claire Aindow, pro vice chancellor, growth and development at the University of Cumbria
Claire has responsibility for oversight of the university's growth agenda including ensuring that the university's portfolio responds to - and is integrated into - regional and national need. Claire's portfolio also includes collaborative provision partnerships (including trans-national education), international student recruitment, and leading on the university's international college development.
‘The She Leads programme is an essential mechanism for Cumbrian women to support Cumbrian women in business - exploring insights, mentoring and coaching and providing a safe, engaging space to share challenges and experiences. I have been a mentor before and I know that I will gain as much from the experience as the mentee. I am delighted and proud to participate.’
Clare Corkill, lead OMA business manager at Ørsted
Clare’s career spans leading engineering companies including Siemens Gamesa and Ørsted, across various operational and managerial positions.
‘With 15 years in leadership, I have always had a passion for building a truly inclusive workplace. Working in a male dominated industry I found my passion was supporting women and trying to bring positive change in diversity in the workplace through mentoring and coaching in the hope to empower them to challenge the things that may be holding them back in their career aspirations.’
Deanne Shallcross, CEO at Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners
As the CEO/Harbour Master of Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners, a Statutory Harbour Authority that she manages, Deanne maintains and conserves the town's historic harbour. Prior to this, she was CEO of Rosehill Arts Trust and spent 27 years in local journalism, latterly as editor of two local newspapers.
‘I've been a mentee on another successful programme and know the benefits on both sides, plus my very different jobs over the years hopefully offer an alternative perspective around career choices and transferable skills.’
Helen Hornsby, control specialist at Nationwide
Helen currently works in risk management at Nationwide Building Society and has spent almost 20 years building her career across financial services within organisations including Cumberland Building Society, Virgin Money, Tesco Bank, Sainsbury’s Bank and Royal Bank of Scotland.
‘Throughout my career, I’ve learned that resilience, transparency, and authentic leadership are often shaped through challenge and strengthened by great mentors, which I have received support from. I’m passionate about helping women recognise their strengths, embrace opportunities, and create a sustainable work-life balance, which is why I’m keen to support the She Leads mentoring programme.’
Joanne Stronach, MD at Cartmell Shepherd
Joanne leads one of the region’s largest independent law firms across Cumbria and Northumberland. Passionate about people, progression and creating opportunities, Joanne is committed to supporting the next generation of female leaders.
‘I am keen to be involved in the She Leads programme to share my experiences, help build confidence and encourage women to realise their full potential. I believe mentoring can have a lasting impact, enabling individuals to develop the skills, resilience and networks needed to thrive in their careers.’
Lydia Parlett, head of national college for nuclear at Lakes College
Lydia began her career in Virginia on Barack Obama’s presidential campaign before going on to support education reform in the Caribbean. Today, she leads the National College for nuclear’s higher education provision at Lakes College, helping to develop the future workforce for one of the UK’s most strategically important industries. Lydia is also an award-winning author whose writing explores political transformation, leadership and change.
‘As a mother, I understands first-hand the realities of balancing leadership ambitions with family life and am delighted to be mentoring women across West Cumbria through the She Leads programme, supporting others to develop their confidence, realise their potential and take the next step in their leadership journey.’
Pip Beasley, chief of staff to the group CFO at Standard Life
Pip is an international senior executive, who works alongside C-suite level leaders. A seasoned chief of staff to chief executives and chief financial officers in the UK and Asia, she is an experienced global corporate affairs director with a track record in successfully enabling executives to prioritise their strategic agenda, engage stakeholders and drive shareholder value.
‘I have a collaborative values-based management style, with a passion for sharing my knowledge and experience. Through She Leads I hope to make a difference.’
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