‘The Entrepreneurial Mindset: The Art of Networking’ Panel Speakers
Diversity UK is pleased to announce the panel speakers for its forthcoming flagship event, The Entrepreneurial Mindset: The Art of Networking, taking place on Wednesday 11 March 2026 in Central London.
The event will bring together three influential leaders – Pinky Lilani CBE DL, Farzana Baduel and Ramesh Vala CBE – for an evening of insight, discussion and high-quality networking. The panel will be moderated by Lopa Patel MBE, Chair of Diversity UK.
This event marks the first in Diversity UK’s Changemakers Series for 2026 and will explore how purposeful networking, reputation and relationship-building contribute to entrepreneurial success. The panel will share their lived experiences and practical insights on building trust-based relationships, communicating purpose and value, strengthening personal and organisational reputation, and navigating barriers to access and confidence.
Event Details
Event: The Entrepreneurial Mindset: The Art of Networking
Date: Wednesday 11 March 2026
Time: 6.00pm – 9.00pm
Registration and refreshments: 6.00pm – 6.30pm
Panel discussion: 6.30pm – 7.30pm
Networking: 7.30pm – 8.30pm
Close: 9.00pm
Venue: Work.Life
Address: 6-7 St Cross Street, Farringdon, London EC1N 8UB
Tickets: £10 (free to Diversity UK Members).
All ticket sales are treated as donations in support of Diversity UK’s charitable work.
Registration: https://bit.ly/4r2iNKR
The evening will also include an interactive networking session led by Alice Huang and Sareeta Vala, giving participants the opportunity to practise skills in a supportive environment. Structured and informal networking will enable attendees to connect directly with speakers and peers.
Guests will leave with practical tools, fresh perspectives and valuable connections to support their personal and professional growth. For early-stage founders, the event offers guidance that can save time and reduce costly mistakes. For aspiring entrepreneurs, it provides an inspiring and realistic view of what it takes to turn ambition into action.
The Art of Networking marks the first in a series of three events exploring the entrepreneurial mindset throughout 2026. The Changemakers Series aims to champion diverse voices, promote inclusive innovation and contribute to a more equitable future for business and leadership.
About the Panel
Pinky Lilani CBE DL
Pinky Lilani CBE DL is a globally respected advocate for gender equality, diversity and inclusion and the Founder and Chairman of the Women of the Future Programme. Over more than 25 years, she has built an international platform supporting the next generation of leaders through awards, summits and mentoring initiatives.
At this event, Pinky will focus on creating and sustaining authentic relationships. She will share how she has built networks that have supported the Asian Women of Achievement Awards and the Women of the Future Programme globally, offering practical guidance on trust, collaboration and long-term relationship-building.
Farzana Baduel
Farzana Baduel is President of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations and Founder and CEO of Curzon PR, a leading strategic communications consultancy.
With extensive experience advising governments, corporations and institutions, Farzana will focus on brand development, reputation management and crisis communications. Drawing on her professional roles, she will also explore the art of pitching for funding, comparing successful pitches with those that struggle, and highlighting what investors and partners look for beyond the pitch deck.
Ramesh Vala CBE
Ramesh Vala CBE is a consultant and international brand ambassador with a distinguished background in law and professional services. After graduating from the London School of Economics, he went on to become one of a small number of Asian equity partners in a top UK law firm.
Ramesh will speak about career development and the skills required to build professional relationships with integrity. He will share common challenges and pitfalls in networking and provide practical strategies for overcoming them, particularly for those at the early stages of their careers.
Moderator: Lopa Patel MBE
Lopa Patel MBE is Chair of Diversity UK and an experienced Non-Executive Director with expertise in technology, governance and risk assurance. A digital entrepreneur and recognised advocate for STEM and innovation, she brings strategic insight to her leadership roles across the public and charitable sectors.
As moderator, Lopa will guide the discussion, draw out practical tips and explore key success strategies for individuals beginning their entrepreneurial journey.
About the Event
The Entrepreneurial Mindset: The Art of Networking is designed for founders, future founders and ambitious professionals who want to understand how relationships, reputation and visibility translate into real-world opportunity.
The curated programme combines expert-led discussion, interactive learning and structured networking in a trusted and inclusive environment. Attendees will gain practical tools, fresh perspectives and valuable connections to support growth, collaboration and long-term success.
This event is the first in a three-part Changemakers Series for 2026, focused on building confidence and capability among under-represented founders and future leaders.
About Diversity UK
Diversity UK is a registered charity (No. 1155189) dedicated to improving diversity and inclusion across Britain. Through research, advocacy and events, the organisation works to promote equitable access to opportunity in business, leadership and public life.
Click here to register for the event: https://bit.ly/4r2iNKR
