Women in Leadership: Anna Christina Borregaard
2024-05-22 17:30 - 19:00 (Europe/Oslo) | HerSpace, Strandgata 19, Oslo, 0152, Norway
Join us for May’s Women in Leadership event with Anna Christina Borregaard!
At HerSpace, we are proud to be part of a collective and necessary effort to be active participants in helping women advance in their social, personal and professional lives. We have designed the Women in Leadership series as a way to amplify the voices, stories and experiences of women. Our featured women speakers have diverse backgrounds, have reached milestones in their careers, and have made an impact in their industry and communities. We all benefit when stories of challenges and wins are shared. We offer their stories, knowledge and insights to help empower you in your own journey.
Women in Leadership is a recurring event featuring an inspirational female leader. If you would like to nominate a woman in your network as a way to honor her work, please reach out so our collection can grow with our community.

About the Speaker:
Anna Christina Borregaard (She/Her) | VP Strategy, Business Ops and Finance at Takeda
Christina is a professional with a background in Finance, Strategy, and Transformation. She has gained valuable experience working with larger pharmaceutical companies and has held various leadership roles. Christina has led Lean Six Sigma projects and has held positions such as Head of Finance and Head of Strategy.

This is a hybrid event. Join us online or in person at HerSpace, Strandgata 19, Oslo. For those joining us online, you will receive the Zoom link on the day of the event. This event is free for all to attend.
Please book your ticket HERE

Being Non-Binary in a Binary World
2024-07-02 12:00 - 13:00
Being Non-Binary in a Binary World

Tired of feeling squeezed into a box at work? This session throws out the binary code and empowers the glorious non-binary and gender-nonconforming folks to rock their authentic selves at work. We’ll get real about the challenges faced (misgendering, bathroom woes, the whole shebang) and how these impact well-being. But don’t sweat it! This session will arm you with ninja-level self-advocacy skills. Learn how to choose your pronouns for work, politely shut down misgendering offenders (because shyness is overrated), and have THE TALK with your manager and coworkers. Plus, we’ll explore building a support network that’s got your back and strategies for creating a more inclusive workplace (think gender-neutral everything and unconscious bias training). This session also acknowledges the world can suck, and sometimes, walking away is the ultimate power move. Get ready for an interactive session packed with tips to help you thrive, not just survive, at work. It’s time to rewrite the rules and break the binary of the workplace. This session will discuss:

The importance of bringing your authentic self to work for overall well-being and productivity.
Discuss common challenges faced by non-binary/GNC individuals at work (e.g., misgendering, lack of gender-neutral options in restrooms, work forms not having options, etc.)
Discuss studies that show the impact of these challenges on mental health and work performance.
Discuss how laws and protections for GNC folks are being rescinded or ignored.
Discuss strategies for self-advocacy
Discuss how to be an active ally
Summarise the key takeaways

This is a digital session and FREE for all to attend! Please register HERE to receive the Zoom link.

Speaker

Justin Hester (They/Them), Managing Partner, Centric Advisory
Justin Hester (they/them) is an experienced and dedicated sales and customer success executive, change agent, and industry expert with over 20 years of experience leading teams and organizations to exceed their business goals. They bring experience in corporate strategy, software GTM, sales, customer success, business transformation, and manufacturing to guide business operations, create new strategies, and drive profitability. Justin has experience in leading digital and SaaS transformations of businesses. They are adept in dealing with complex issues and challenges, leading diverse teams to achieve their potential. They are passionate about workplace inclusivity and LGBTQIA+ issues and are a firm believer that everyone should work in a team and workplace environment that allows them to freely be their authentic self at work.

Women in Leadership
2024-11-28 18:00 - 21:00 | Atelie, Ruseløkkveien 30, Oslo, 0251
At Diversify, we have designed the Women in Leadership series as a way to amplify the voices, stories and experiences of women from diverse backgrounds, who have made an impact in their industry and communities.
We believe that we can all benefit when stories of challenges and wins are shared, empowering others to pursue their paths with resilience and purpose. Our Women in Leadership series offers a space for these remarkable leaders to share their journeys, celebrate their wins, and openly discuss the challenges they have overcome.
Join us for an inspiring and transformative session that celebrates and champions women in leadership! This event will bring together trailblazing women leaders, industry experts, and emerging changemakers who will explore the evolving dynamics of leadership across sectors. Together, they will address how leadership intersects with themes of mental health, self-care, motherhood, entrepreneurship, and the unique barriers women often encounter due to intersecting identities, such as race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic background. Register below!
Through a fireside chat and panel discussion, attendees will gain insights into navigating leadership with resilience, building impactful networks, and driving meaningful change.
Who Should Attend:
This event is for changemakers, entrepreneurs, advocates, and anyone passionate about supporting and learning from women in leadership. Whether you’re a seasoned leader, someone starting out on your journey, an ally for gender equity and equality, or simply a woman seeking community, this event has something to offer you.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with a diverse range of individuals, expanding your network and gaining fresh perspectives and valuable insights.
📍 Location: Atelie Art Gallery (inside VIA Vika), Ruseløkkveien 30, 0251 Oslo
We will have light snacks and refreshments.

Our Speakers:

Chisom Udeze is an accomplished Economist, Strategist, Investor, and Founder with nearly two decades of experience leading impact-driven companies and actioning societal change. Her global work spans seven countries and includes collaborations with organizations like the European Commission and Boston Consulting Group. Chisom champions democracy, sustainability, justice, and community driven and multi-stakeholder change-making. She also spearheads the Diversify Nordics Summit, a leading conference for leadership and innovation. A passionate advocate for mental health, Chisom enjoys tennis, reading, writing, and has published on Forbes.

Vicky Ngari is a former beauty queen who advocated for women and girls in Africa, connecting cultural revival and driving sustainability in the fashion world. Through her grassroots workshops at The Rural Retail, she empowers rural women to become sustainable fashion producers, preserving indigenous craftsmanship while fostering economic empowerment. Her traditional woven bag, Kiondo, available at VickyNgari.com, embodies her commitment to honouring heritage and promoting environmental consciousness. As a lecturer and law student, she advocates for diversity and ethical practices within the fashion and beauty industry, advocating on global platforms for policy changes and innovation think tanks. Her collaborations with institutions such as Kew Royal Gardens, Cambridge MAA, and V&A underscore her dedication to bridging the gap between traditional wisdom and contemporary design, prioritising ethical practices and cultural preservation.
From London to the Nordics, her efforts are fuelled by her own and her daughter’s journey of inclusivity, spanning from the creative industry to the limited beauty, hair, and wellness options for BIPOC. She aims to shine a light on the diverse people and opportunities that reflect Scandinavia today with @Things Girls Need… by curating innovative, natural products that serve multicultural women and girls.

Raja Skogland is a well-known figure within the innovation space, a serial entrepreneur, a university lecturer in entrepreneurship, and an investor with a portfolio of over 100 startups. Listed as one of the top 100 most influential women in the European venture capital and startup ecosystem in 2023 and 2024, Raja’s work is dedicated to shaping the future of corporate governance and innovation.
As the founder of The Visionary Company, Board & VC, she is committed to empowering the next generation of leaders and board members, equipping them with the skills, strategies and networks needed to drive sustainable business growth. In collaboration with partners from McKinsey Norway, KPMG UK & Germany, Deloitte Netherlands, and BCG X Germany, as well as several researchers in governance from Switzerland, the Netherlands, and the UK; Raja’s work is at the forefront of modern governance practices. Born in Morocco, raised in Switzerland, and now living in Norway with her husband and two children, Raja’s diverse background and multicultural experience give her a global perspective she always brings to the table.

Winnie Nyheim-Jomisko is a psycholgist with expertise in cross-cultural psychology, diversity competence, racism-related stress and trauma, and intersectionality. In addition to her clinical practice, she works as speaker at the Center for Intersectionality.

Claudia Antwi-Adjei Hedegaard has built an impressive career across some of Norway’s most renowned and influential organisations – such as the Ministry of Finance, Equinor, Aker Energy (part of the Aker group), and NRK.

Currently, she works as a Strategic Business Advisor at Norway’s largest media organisation, driving business improvements. Previously, as Head of Organizational Development at Aker Energy, she shaped and executed a corporate organisation strategy to support the company’s growth ambitions in Ghana. At Equinor, Claudia served as Head of Department and led corporate transformation initiatives and major organisational projects, including heading global contractual negotiations valued at hundreds of millions of kroner. She also worked as Employer Brand Manager at the Ministry of Finance.
Claudia is the founder and host of ‘BANEBRYTERE,’ Norway’s leading career and leadership podcast, which highlights inspirational career stories of people with multicultural backgrounds. The aim is to inspire and broaden horizons. She is also a career and leadership columnist at E24, Norway’s largest business news outlet.

Dr. Winifred Johansen is a Norwegian business executive and an international board director, investor and speaker. She has more than twenty-four years of industrial and commercial experience from the Renewables and Circular Economy sector, Subsea Oil and Gas, and the Automotive Industry.
Winifred holds a Doctorate degree in crisis leadership, M.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering, an MBA in Oil and Gas management. She is a published author who has published 4 books, including Diversity Capitalism, Profiting from Diversity, Inclusions and Equity.

Sayantani Saha is the Senior Manager and Chief of Staff at Diversify, where she leverages her diverse background in journalism, retail, social media management, and community development to excel in her role. Her unique skill set enables her to manage high-impact projects, such as the HerTech Incubator, while maintaining strong communication with a variety of stakeholders. She is instrumental in fostering inclusive environments, organizing strategic gatherings, and spearheading community development efforts.
Working closely with senior leaders and providing direct support to the Executive Director, she drives measurable change for Diversify’s clients, ensuring alignment with the organization’s mission. Her interdisciplinary expertise, backed by a Bachelor’s in Political Science and a Master’s in Fashion Management, strengthens her capacity to navigate complex, evolving challenges with a well-rounded approach.
Get Your Ticket

Women's Circle
2025-02-17 17:30 - 19:30
Women’s Circle is a non judgmental, gently facilitated listening and support group for women to hold space and show up for ourselves and each other. The session is an opportunity to find stillness, connection and solidarity; a space to speak your truth, if you feel moved to and process what is present in you.
We invite you to make S P A C E and find sanctuary in compassionate connection, to benefit from the wisdom of other women by witnessing their stories, pains and triumphs. Women’s Circle is a unique and rare space to let go of the identity veils we maintain, to come exactly as you are and connect with people that empathise with your situation and hold space for your unique set of circumstances and experiences. You are invited to share as much or as little as you wish, or just listen to others.
The session will be facilitated by Iva Ogrizovic. It will be held at Kongens gate 15, 0153 Oslo. When you leave this session we hope you will feel nurtured and lifted in your spirit. We look forward to seeing you.

** Please note that in order to create a safe and supportive space, we will “close the doors” and begin promptly at 17:40. Please arrive on time.

**Cost: NOK100
Maximum attendees: 20
We want this event to be accessible to all. If your financial situation is preventing you from attending this event, please email sayantani@diversify.no.
Register below!

Women of Color in Business
2025-03-27 18:00 - 21:00 | Atelie, Ruseløkkveien 30, Oslo, 0251
Our Women in Business series is a platform designed and led by women to equip you with valuable and necessary business skills to drive growth at your company or venture. Whether you’re running a startup, managing an SME, or dreaming of launching your own business, this series connects you with professional and highly skilled women to share expertise and practical tools for success.
In March, we’re proud to partner with Women of Color in Biz to present this special session.
Together, we’ll explore:

Shifting Narratives: Reclaim and reshape the stories of women of color in business by highlighting success stories and celebrating the innovations driven by women of color.
Money Matters: Break the stigma around talking about money, including asking for what you’re worth. Foster financial independence, enhance financial literacy, and create sustainable wealth.
Creating Pathways for Success: Discover tools, networks, and strategies that empower women of color to seize opportunities, amplify their impact, and thrive in business and leadership.
Building Wealth and Sharing Power: Explore how women of color can collectively build economic power by investing in one another’s businesses, fostering supportive financial networks, and ensuring wealth creation is inclusive and equitable.

Tentative Agenda:

18.00: Doors open
18.10: Introduction & welcome by Chisom Udeze
18.20: Presentation by Ruthie Semere & Mam Foon | Women of Color in Biz: Story, Mission, Work, and Impact
18.30: Panel Discussion with Grace Iche, Ruthie Semere & Mam Foon; Moderated by Sayantani Saha | Owning Our Narratives: Building Wealth, Power & Pathways for Women in Business
19.00: Audience Facilitated Discussion; Moderated by Chisom Udeze | Chisom will facilitate a discussion where the audience can share perspectives, insights, and ask questions.
19.45: Networking and Business Showcases

Who Should Attend:
This session is for entrepreneurs, professionals, and changemakers seeking to reclaim narratives, enhance their financial knowledge, and build networks of mutual support.
While this event focuses on the experiences and perspectives of women of color, it is open to everyone who wants to learn, engage, and support an inclusive business community.
We will have light snacks and refreshments. Register below to secure your spot!
REGISTER HERE!

Speakers:
Grace Iche (She/Her)
Grace Iche is a skilled and trained fashion designer and stylist who has a deep passion for creating clothes that tell a story. She is proudly leading her emerging independent slow fashion brand, Grace Ucha in customizable designs and bespoke tailoring with a mission to celebrate women of all colours and sizes.

Ruthie Semere (She/Her)
Ruthie Semere is a business developer, entrepreneur, and ICF-accredited leadership coach with over 12 years of international experience in digital media and business development. Since 2017, she has coached individuals, entrepreneurs, and companies globally in self-leadership and success creation. Ruthie is also the co-founder of Women of Color in Biz, a network that champions women of color entrepreneurs.
As a trilingual daughter of Eritrean immigrants with experience in navigating two cultures, Ruthie’s biculturalism has shaped her ability to deeply understand people from all walks of life. This unique perspective allows her to hold a global and inclusive mindset that resonates across diverse backgrounds. She holds a master’s degree in International Management from King’s College London and hosts the podcast Zanta on personal development.

Chisom Udeze (She/Her)
Chisom is an accomplished Economist, Strategist, Investor, and Founder with nearly two decades of experience leading impact-driven companies and actioning societal change. She serves on multiple boards, including as chair, and holds advisory roles across three continents.
Her global work spans seven countries and includes collaborations with organizations like the European Commission and Boston Consulting Group. Chisom champions democracy, sustainability, justice, and community driven and multi-stakeholder change-making. She also spearheads the Diversify Summit, a leading conference for leadership and innovation. A passionate advocate for mental health, Chisom enjoys tennis, reading, writing, and has published on Forbes.

Mam Foon (She/Her)
Mam Foon is a Business Developer and Music Entrepreneur with over 14 years of international experience in branding, business development, and the creative industries. She is the founder of We Deh Culture, an events platform celebrating African heritage, and the co-founder of Women of Color in Biz, a network championing women of color entrepreneurs.

The proud daughter of Gambian parents, Mam’s bicultural background and global experience have enabled her to build meaningful connections, create success, and foster cultural exchange through her work in the creative and cultural industries, globally. She holds a degree in Graphic Design from the University of the Arts London and has advanced her expertise in business development, events, and the music industry, working internationally in Gambia and across the continent.

Sayantani Saha (She/Her)
Sayantani is a Senior Manager and Chief of Staff at Diversify, where she leverages her diverse background in journalism, retail, social media management, and community development to excel in her role. Sayantani is instrumental in fostering inclusive environments, organizing strategic gatherings, and spearheading community development efforts. Providing direct support to the Executive Director, she drives measurable change for Diversify’s clients, ensuring alignment with the organization’s mission.

Beyond her work at Diversify, Sayantani runs a small macrame business called Sew and Saw—a creative passion project that perfectly complements her multifaceted career.

Building With, Not For: The Process of Community Co-Creation
2025-09-25 12:00 - 13:00
What does it really mean to co-create with community?
This discussion is an invitation to explore the practice of co-creation — how it works, why it matters, and what co-creation makes possible. Co-creation is about listening deeply, sharing power, and building with people rather than for them.
Real change doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens in community — when we choose to build together. Co-creation strengthens trust, creates belonging, and ensures that what we make is not only lasting, but also relevant across different contexts.
In this session, we’ll share our journey of co-creating an equity framework with artists, cultural practitioners, and organizations across the Nordics — the lessons we learned along the way, and why this way of working is essential for meaningful, sustainable change.
This is an invitation to reflect on what co-creation asks of us, what it makes possible, and why it matters for anyone who wants to create change that endures.
Join us digitally on September 25th at 12.00 CEST. RSVP below to attend!
