Athena Festival 2025
Announcing our Keynote speaker…
Marverine Cole
We’re delighted to announce Marverine Cole, multi-award-winning journalist and TV presenter as our keynote address.
A familiar face on ITV1, Marverine is a newsreader on the channel’s breakfast programme, Good Morning Britain, and is also the resident expert in craft beer on Alan Titchmarsh’s Love Your Weekend show.
She brings her journalistic experience, insight, warmth and authenticity to every programme.
“I’m honoured to be part of Athena Festival 2025. Empowering founders and innovators is essential and I’m excited to share my thoughts on courage, bravery and women harnessing resourcefulness.
“In today’s challenging economic landscape, those qualities aren’t just admirable – they’re the fuel that drives innovation, resilience and growth. I hope my keynote will inspire attendees to trust their instincts, embrace calculated risks and lean into the power of their own stories.”
Announcing our Keynote speaker…
Lisa Clifford
We’re delighted to announce Lisa Clifford, internationally certified empowerment coach, motivational speaker and master firewalking trainer, as our keynote speaker.
Lisa is the founder of The Meant For More Movement, a global initiative inspiring people to break free from limitations and step boldly into their true potential. For over 20 years she has worked with individuals, leaders and organisations to ignite clarity, confidence and courage. A familiar voice on BBC Radio and a regular magazine contributor, Lisa is known for her warmth, authenticity and dynamic approach to personal transformation.
Her impact spans industries and audiences worldwide. She has designed and delivered high-performance programmes for companies including Siemens, Best Western, the Intercontinental Hotel Group, and the UK Ministry of Defence, where she co-created a unique leadership course for over 100 Army officers returning from Afghanistan.
“I’m thrilled to be part of Athena Festival 2025. My mission has always been to show people they are meant for more, and that stepping through fear reveals their true strength.
“My keynote will encourage attendees to embrace courage, transform doubt into determination, and leave with the belief that they too can be unstoppable.”
Named for a Goddess.
Built for Founders.
Athena Festival – a launchpad for visionary female founders
Named after the Greek goddess of wisdom, courage, and strategic power, Athena champions women redefining entrepreneurship. This one-day festival is a vibrant hub of innovation, connection, and opportunity for female founders and changemakers—especially in the regions.
Research shows women-led businesses are 35% more likely to deliver higher returns on investment, making them not only a socially conscious choice but a smart financial one. Yet northern regions, rich in talent and ideas, remain undercapitalised and underserved by traditional funding channels.
Athena is here to build a thriving investment ecosystem driven by vision, values, and bold ambition.
What to Expect
Inspiring Keynotes – Hear from leading women entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators shaping the future.
Actionable Workshops – Level up your business with tactical sessions on funding, scaling, branding, and leadership.
Curated Networking – Connect with founders, investors, mentors, and ecosystem leaders who get it.
Pitch to Win – Step into the spotlight in our high-energy pitch competition – new faces and game-changing visibility.
Why attend Athena?
Practical Insights – Learn from founders, investors, and experts who’ve done it.
Powerful Connections – Build a network that opens doors and drives impact.
Real Visibility – Step into the spotlight and share your story.
Inspiration that Lasts – Leave with fresh ideas and the tools to scale.
Proudly Regional – Backing bold businesses beyond the London bubble.
Who should attend?
Startup founders ready to scale
Early-stage entrepreneurs across tech, consumer, health, and social impact
Aspiring women leaders with bold ideas to change the world
Investors and partners looking to support the next generation of innovation
If you’re ready to shape the future, Athena is for you.
Our sponsors
