Coffee, Connection & AI

Sophie Fleming

Hi, I’m Sophie. I’m an experienced networker, helping female entrepreneurs and executives to connect with the people, support and opportunities they need to grow their businesses. I graduated in environmental sciences in 2007, keen to somehow make a difference in the world. I tried out various roles within the sector but these mostly involved writing reports and doing data analysis, rather than what I most enjoy – connecting with people. With that in mind, I started volunteering on a child helpline. I found this so rewarding that I decided to leave the environmental sector and take on a new role as a referral line worker, connecting rough sleepers with outreach teams. I thought this would be my dream job but soon got burnt out by the 12-hour night shifts and daily abuse I was receiving on the phone. It was around this time that I was offered the opportunity to start my own business in health and wellness, something which ran alongside my full-time job until I mustered up the confidence to quit. It was my business as an Arbonne consultant that eventually led me to The Athena Network. I joined the Hampstead group in January 2016 and only a few months into my membership an opportunity presented itself – to become the regional director for North London. It struck me as an ideal way to hone in on my passion for both connecting with people and helping them. I took over the region in August that year and now run four thriving groups – Hampstead, Primrose Hill, Muswell Hill and Finchley, and St John’s Wood – with regular monthly meetings, drop-in sessions and quarterly masterclasses. Now I feel I’m really making a difference to the lives of the business and corporate women in the groups I run. And now, as an experienced networker, natural connector and supporter of women in business, I get so much from helping these inspiring and driven women grow personally and professionally. Most of all, I love seeing them thrive. I really enjoy being the person that brings everyone together, that helps make things happen through an introduction, referral, or just by sharing my ideas and support. What’s more, I have so much fun organising and hosting the Athena meetings and always come away feeling more inspired and energised – as do the members. Do get in touch to see if I can help you make the right connections for your business and to be part of the growing, thriving community that I’ve helped to create.