10 Reasons to Celebrate 10 Years of The Women’s Business Network

When women come together, they share more than contacts. They exchange insights, expertise and real life experiences, and that's what the Women’s Business Network, founded by Karen Haith in 2015, has been doing for the past decade.

This local non-profit has reshaped Guernsey’s networking scene with its relaxed, women-only events featuring free drinks, nibbles, and inspiring guest speakers. It’s a space where women from all sectors can connect, professionally and personally.

Ten years on, there’s plenty to celebrate. From meaningful connections and shared experiences to standout speakers and prestigious venues, here are ten reasons why the Women’s Business Network is going from strength to strength. 

 

 

After full-time employment... I went through a lot of emotional challenges. I realised there was a need for a forum where women in business, or equivalent sectors, could talk to fellow women to help them - plus me! - cope with change.  I also realised the opportunities that could be available.

Karen Haith - Founder, WBN

 

1.  The Woman Behind WBN.

Let’s start by celebrating the woman at the heart of it all, WBN Founder Karen Haith. Karen’s vision and dedication have created a platform where women from all sectors in local business can connect and thrive. Karen has worked in financial services in Guernsey for 30+ years. Currently she works part-time as a Non Executive Director on private equity and venture capital fund boards. Karen shared her reasons for setting up the WBN: 

“After full-time employment, which ended in 2015, and a career at a senior level I went through a lot of emotional challenges myself. I realised there was a need for a forum where women in business, or equivalent sectors, could talk to fellow women to help them - plus me! - cope with change. I also realised the opportunities that could be available, not just in finance but in business generally, and nothing like that existed, so I set up the WBN! This is a forum for women in all walks of life, and all are welcome.”

 

2. The Power Of Connection.

Networking isn't just about exchanging business cards. It's about building relationships. The kind that lead to mutual support and opportunities, helping women to grow, personally and professionally. The WBN provides a safe space where women can share their experiences and support each other through the ups and downs of working life. It’s connection in the truest sense.

 

3. The Speakers.

Over the years, the WBN has welcomed a fantastic mix of speakers. From Christina Blacklaws, former President of the Law Society of England and Wales, to local entrepreneur Flinty Bane, co-founder of SKIN, and fine art and gemstone expert Sophie Marquis. These are just a few of the speakers who have inspired guests at past events, sharing insights on topics that range from diversity and inclusion to launching creative ventures, building personal brands, and navigating the highs and lows of the business world.

 

 

4. The Generosity of Sponsors.

WBN events are not only free to attend, they're also thoughtfully curated, thanks to the generosity of local sponsors. From hosting art exhibitions at the Royal Court to organising gatherings at prestigious venues like The OGH, the sponsors provide more than just financial support. They create memorable experiences. 

 

5. The Confidence Boost.

One of the less obvious, but incredibly important, benefits of networking is confidence. Imposter syndrome remains a significant challenge for many professional women. But being surrounded by women who understand and uplift each other helps to challenge limiting beliefs. Events like the WBN can help give women the validation and visibility they need to move forward with confidence. 

 

6. The Opportunities.

When women network in business, it's about collaboration over competition, and the ripple effects can be profound. Networking can open doors, literally. Women who regularly engage in professional circles tend to hear about job openings and career opportunities earlier and more often. A recent LinkedIn survey revealed that 80% of professionals say networking is key to career success,  and for women, those connections are often other women championing each other behind the scenes.

 

 

7. The Shared Experience.

At WBN events, it's not about business cards and elevator pitches. It's where real conversations happen. Whether it’s talking about juggling work, family and life in general or simply swapping tips and advice over a glass of wine, these moments are what make the network feel more like a community than a business event.

 

8. The Benefits.

When women come together, they influence more than their own careers. They drive change. Business networking groups, with strong women and influential speakers in the room, can become springboards for advocacy, such as lobbying for equal pay, better maternity policies, and representation in leadership.

 

 

9. The Familiar Faces.

In a place like Guernsey, the business world - like the community in general - is failrly well connected. Everybody knows somebody, who knows somebody. So WBN events aren’t just about meeting new people, they’re also a great excuse to catch up with familiar faces. It’s where old colleagues reconnect and friendships are kept alive over a glass of wine. It’s less about formal networking and more about staying in contact with a community of like minded individuals. 

 

10. The Next Event. 

Ten years ago, Karen envisioned a space where women in business could come together to connect, support, and grow. That vision has blossomed into the vibrant community that is the WBN today, and the journey continues. The next WBN event, kindly sponsored by Carey Olsen, is on 26 June 2025. If you’d like to come along and see what it's all about, contact Karen to find out more.