The Athena Network London Free Taster Event

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.