Jessica O'ConnorMore than 50 women property professionals attended a networking lunch by the Bournemouth seafront, organised by MSP Capital.
Held at The Nici Hotel & Spa on the town’s West Cliff, the ‘Property and Paradise’ lunch was a chance for attendees to get together and help raise money for a mental health charity.
Property developers, surveyors, estate agents and professional services companies were all represented on the 55-strong guest list.
As well as providing a networking opportunity for attendees, the event featured a mystery prize tombola that raised £400 for Dorset Mind.
MSP Capital and event partner Ellis Jones Solicitors made further donations, taking the total raised for the community mental health charity to just under £1,000.
Erin Kennedy OBE, a world champion rower and breast cancer campaigner, gave a talk about finding the strength and resilience to stay focused on elite competition after a cancer diagnosis at the age of 29.
A coxswain with the Great British Paralympian rowing team, Kennedy explained how she uses her platform to raise awareness of early detection while continuing to compete in the sport and be an advocate for women’s mental health.
Nicky Hollamby, MSP Capital finance director, said: “Erin’s inspiring words captured everyone’s attention and complemented the uplifting tone of the event.
“We designed it as a meaningful opportunity for women in our industry to network in a relaxed summer setting while supporting Dorset Mind as an amazing local charity. Our aim was to celebrate women, their creativity and the importance of awareness around good mental health. We’re thrilled it went so well.”
Kate Brooks, Partner, solicitor and head of employment and HR services at Ellis Jones, said: “Erin certainly gave us a thought-provoking talk that chimed perfectly with the message about mental health and wellbeing.
“As well as fun and enjoying a celebration of being a woman in the property industry, we wanted guests to feel encouraged to have open conversations around mental health and if they are facing challenges, to persevere to overcome them.”
