Dr. Bridget Irene is a distinguished academic, researcher, and advocate for women's empowerment, particularly in entrepreneurship and sustainable development. As the founder of the Women Research Network (WRN), Dr. Irene has created a dynamic platform dedicated to fostering collaboration, mentorship, and advocacy for women entrepreneurs and researchers globally. Currently serving as a Senior Lecturer in Business Management at De Montfort University, UK, Dr. Irene specializes in gendered entrepreneurship, sustainability, and innovation in the Global South. Her work focuses on amplifying the voices of women, addressing systemic barriers, and promoting inclusive policies that drive economic growth and social equity. Dr. Irene has a prolific academic record, presenting her research at esteemed conferences such as the British Academy of Management (BAM), Gender, Work and Organization (GWO), and the Institute for Small Business and Entrepreneurship (ISBE). She has won multiple Best Paper Awards and has published extensively in high-impact journals. Her recent studies explore critical themes such as entrepreneurial education, energy poverty, and the intersection of gender and sustainability in Sub-Saharan Africa. A Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and a Fellow of the Chartered Management Institute, Dr. Irene combines academic rigor with practical insights. Her leadership and dedication to advancing women’s roles in entrepreneurship have been recognized globally. Through WRN, Dr. Irene continues to inspire and support women by providing access to mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities. Her vision is to build an inclusive ecosystem where women’s contributions are celebrated and leveraged for sustainable development.