In 2025, Women in Enterprise marked its 40th anniversary — four decades of supporting, connecting, and empowering women in business across Milton Keynes and beyond.
The celebrations took place at Chicheley Hall, where members past and present came together to share stories, memories, and inspiration. The event featured guest speakers, a special interview with our founder Sally Fennemore MBE, and plenty of opportunity to reflect on the group’s remarkable journey.
Many thanks to Woodfines Solicitors who sponsored the champagne reception, Jess Memon from Asian Community Radio whose interviews you can listen to below, and to Jane Russell Photography who captured the day perfectly!
Photography by Jane Russell
Women in Enterprise in Milton Keynes was founded in the early 1980s by Sally Fennemore MBE and a handful of pioneering women who recognised the need for a dedicated space where women could meet, share experiences, and grow their businesses at a time when opportunities were limited and challenges were many.
The group began modestly, with just eight members meeting at the YMCA over coffee and biscuits. At the time, networking groups were largely male-dominated, and many women faced barriers to finance, opportunities, and respect in the business world. Determined to create something different, the founders established a warm and welcoming network designed to encourage collaboration, learning, and friendship.
As word spread, the group grew rapidly. Monthly meetings with guest speakers, member spotlights and business lunches all helped to build momentum. By the 1990s, Women in Enterprise had become recognised as a vital force in supporting entrepreneurial women, working alongside government initiatives such as the Women’s Enterprise Centre.
Over the years, thousands of women have been part of Women in Enterprise — from sole traders and start-ups to SME’s and corporates. The group has always been about more than business. Members have supported each other through career milestones, family life, and personal challenges, creating lifelong friendships as well as business connections.
Reflecting on the journey, Sally shared:
“I’m immensely proud. When I received an MBE for services to entrepreneurial women, it felt like the culmination of everything we had set out to achieve. But the real legacy is this community — women supporting women, and the fact that it is still thriving 40 years on.”
Today, Women in Enterprise continues to thrive thanks to the dedication of its volunteer committee and the energy of its members. The group hosts regular networking events — always with the same ethos of friendship, encouragement, and opportunity.
As we look to the future, the mission of Women in Enterprise remains as relevant today as it was in the 1980s. With more women than ever starting and leading businesses, we look forward to shaping the next chapter together.
Sally Fennemore MBE
