Empowering Potential: Mary Hockaday’s Wisdom for Women Leaders at The Rising Festival 2024

The Rising Festival is a celebration of empowerment, growth, and community, bringing together inspiring women from all walks of life. As we approach the upcoming event on 21 September in Cambridge, we're excited to share insights from the dedicated members of our Steering Committee who are driving this initiative forward. In this special Q&A, we hear from Mary Hockaday, Master of Trinity Hall, Cambridge, about her motivations, achievements, and advice for aspiring leaders. With a rich background in leadership and a passion for gender equality, Mary’s insights offer valuable lessons for us all as we navigate our own journeys in work and life.

The Rising Festival Steering Committee Q&A with Mary Hockaday, Master of Trinity Hall, Cambridge

1. What inspired you to join the Rising Festival Steering Committee?
I’m glad to have the opportunity to connect to women in Cambridge beyond the university, and to share experiences and reflections with a great network of women in the City.

2. Can you share a personal or professional achievement that you are particularly proud of?
I’m proud of my career in BBC News. There weren’t so many women in senior leadership roles when I started out, and news can be a challenging environment. I feel very privileged to have been able to help lead public service news services in the UK and globally and to have combined this with family life.

3. What advice would you give to women who aspire to leadership roles in their careers?
Learn, learn, learn. Especially from other leaders—those you respect and those you don’t! And work out a style you’re comfortable with.

4. How do you prioritise self-care and well-being in your busy schedule?
I put slots in my diary called ‘meeting’ when I actually go for a walk or to a café to mull. I’m fortunate in that I’ve always slept well.

5. Is there a book, podcast, or resource that has had a significant impact on your personal or professional development?
Madam Secretary by Madeline Albright, the first female Secretary of State in the US.

6. What motivates you to support gender equality and empowerment in the workplace?
I’ve always enjoyed working with men and women and have had great male colleagues, but I also see that the workplace is not yet fully used to women. After all, it was only a few decades ago that a woman had to leave the civil service on getting married, and maternity leave and equality legislation had to be hard fought for. It’s so much better than it was, but we’re not there yet. I meet so many fabulous women with great potential who I want to thrive.

7. What’s your top tip for managing a busy life?
Give up on perfectionism. There’s a concept from psychology about the ‘good enough’ mother. I apply that to life. Am I a ‘good enough’ leader? Is the food on the table ‘good enough’? Is my hair ‘good enough’? Am I a ‘good enough’ friend, a ‘good enough’ mother? This approach means you can put your energies, your intellect, and emotions where they most matter at any time and keep moving forward.

Conclusion

Mary Hockaday’s reflections remind us of the importance of continuous learning, self-care, and embracing imperfection in our pursuit of leadership and personal growth. The Rising Festival offers a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded women, share experiences, and inspire each other to reach new heights. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative event on 21 September in Cambridge.

Register now to join us at the Rising Festival and take a step towards realising your full potential. Learn more HERE.