On 30 September 2025, Women in Flood and Coastal Risk Management (WiFCERM) hosted a powerful Lunch and Learn session spotlighting the winners of the 2025 WiFCERM Awards. The event celebrated the achievements of three exceptional women whose work is shaping a more inclusive and resilient FCRM sector.
🎥 The recording:
🔹 Inspiring Stories from Across the Sector
Dr. Kate Smith (University of Hull), Youvrani Thimmegowda (AECOM), and Debs Nutt (Arcadis) shared their unique career journeys, highlighting the challenges they’ve overcome – from imposter syndrome to systemic barriers – and the impact of their work in education, engineering, and leadership.
🔹 Driving Change Through Mentorship and Advocacy
Each speaker emphasized the importance of mentoring, psychological safety, and inclusive practices. Their stories showcased how personal values and professional action can create ripple effects across teams, organisations, and communities.
🔹 Looking Ahead: Empowering the Next Generation
The panel discussed their hopes for the future, including improving access to inclusive PPE, embedding EDI principles in early education, and fostering kindness and curiosity in the workplace. Their message was clear: real change starts with everyday actions and conversations.
womeninfcerm.org 