18:08, 07 March 2025
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
In a 2013 Independent article, Baroness Karren Brady CBE said: “If you don't have a woman on your board, write to your shareholders and explain why.”
And that is why we want to share her dedication to women, philanthropy, business and football for our International Women’s Day special Philanthropy Friday piece.
Many may know her for having many iconic moments on The Apprentice, but Baroness Karren Brady is a name synonymous with business acumen and empowering women.
She has built an extraordinary career that serves as an inspiration to many, including being the Vice Chair of West Ham United Football Club, and one of the most high-profile women people in British business.
"Success should be based on merit, not gender," she has said, and throughout her career, she has used her platform to advocate for equal pay, better working conditions, and more female representation in boardrooms.
But her impact stretches beyond the football field— Karren’s career also includes stints as a former managing director of Birmingham City FC. Her rise through the ranks in a male-dominated industry is nothing short of remarkable, making her a true trailblazer.
While Karren’s career in business is impressive in its own right, her philanthropic efforts are equally notable. She has been a staunch advocate for women's rights and is deeply committed to improving the lives of women and children through extensive charity work. This includes being an ambassador for Wellbeing of Women, a charity that promotes reproductive and gynaecological health of women.
As a mother of two, she proudly supports many charitable organisations that help children and young people. One of them being Wellchild, which supports seriously ill children and their families across the UK, and the Teenage Cancer Trust which reflects her personal connection to the cause, as she works to raise funds for education, research, and support for teenagers battling cancer. She is also the first Life After Stroke Patron for the Stroke Association, raising awareness about the long-term effects of strokes on both adults and children. Additionally, Karren serves as Chairperson of the Mothercare Group Foundation, which provides grants for the health and well-being of mothers and babies, particularly those with special needs.
Through her career and philanthropy, she continues to challenge the status quo, proving that determination and a passion for social change can break down barriers in both business and society.
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
Wellbeing Of Women. This leading UK charity focused on improving the reproductive and gynaecological health of women through research, support, and education. Find out more.
Stroke Association. This is a charity dedicated to supporting stroke survivors, raising awareness, and funding research to improve prevention, treatment, and care. Learn more here.
WellChild. This is a UK-based charity that provides care, support, and research programmes for seriously ill children and their families. Support them here.
This article aligns with the UN SDG Gender Equality, Partnerships For The Goals.
