YOUR TRUSTED PLACE FOR CONNECTION, SUPPORT & BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES.
07507 134 261
May 2026
Thu
21
12:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Fuego by Fenwick, The Bentall Centre, Kingston upon Thames
Some of the best business relationships begin over a good meal and an honest conversation. That’s exactly what our Women in Business Lunch is designed for.
Join us for the Kingston Chamber of Commerce’s popular Women in Business Lunch, in partnership with Time & Leisure Magazine. An afternoon of connection, inspiration and great food in the company of businesswomen who understand the journey you are on.
What to expect: A relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, a delicious two-course lunch with a glass of Prosecco, and thought-provoking presentations from our guest speakers.
Guest Speaker:
We are delighted to welcome our guest speaker, Dr Bahare Afrahi, Reader in Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management at Kingston University Business School, Strategic Partnership Director at the Selby Trust–Kingston University, and Programme Director of Help to Grow: Management. Bahare will be sharing insights on a compelling topic: What makes Female Entrepreneurs thrive?
Bahare works at the intersection of innovation, entrepreneurship, and small business development, translating research into practical tools for business leaders. As Associate Professor of Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Kingston University Business School, she leads initiatives supporting small business growth across the UK, including the Help to Grow: Management Programme. She holds a PhD in Entrepreneurship and Innovation from the University of Essex, and her research explores the psychological and social factors shaping entrepreneurial motivation and wellbeing. In 2020, she launched Innovation Playground and the 4 Million SME Growth Programme, which has supported over 700 entrepreneurs through design-led approaches to innovation.
A special setting: We’re delighted to be hosted at Fuego by Fenwick, a beautiful restaurant on the first floor of Fenwick Kingston, one of our valued members. This “modern oasis” offers you the chance to indulge in the finest Mediterranean cuisine.
Who you will meet: Entrepreneurs, directors, educators and community leaders from a broad range of industries — local, Surrey and South West London businesses. Expect genuinely interesting people and conversations worth having.
Agenda:
• 12.30pm: Registration opens. You will be welcomed with a glass of Ca Di Alte Prosecco upon your arrival.
The first part of the gathering is dedicated to networking, where you can mingle and engage in conversations with new and familiar contacts. Our team will be on-site to help you with introductions.
• 12.45pm: Welcome speech, followed by a guest talk.
• 1.00pm: Open discussion with Q&A session. During this session, it is encouraged that you share your knowledge of the topic, ask questions, and seek guidance.
• 1.15pm: Lunch. Menu options will be available a few days prior to the event.
• Dessert, and further networking. You are welcome to explore other tables to engage in conversations with different women in the room.
• 2pm / 2.30pm: Close of the event
Don’t miss out on this valuable event! Spaces for our Women in Business lunches are high in demand and limited, so do book early to avoid disappointment.
Cancellation policy: In the event you need to cancel your reservation, please cancel within 48 hours in order to receive a refund.
This event is sponsored by Kingston University Help to Grow Management Programme.
You will have the opportunity to speak with the programme coordinator and learn more about the valuable opportunities it offers for your business growth.
Event in partnership with Supported by
Our calendar includes business breakfasts, networking lunches, workshops and larger flagship events - each developed to help you meet local professionals and grow your business connections.
See all upcoming events here
All bookings can be made online through the event listing (either directly via the website or the Eventbrite page), where you’ll find full details, including ticket types and payment options.
If you ever run into an issue, just get in touch with the Chamber team - we’re happy to help.
Yes, we periodically host free or member-exclusive events offered at a reduced rate.
Each event page clearly shows whether it’s open to guests or members only.
Yes, many guests attend before deciding to join, and we welcome any business or organisation with an interest in the Kingston area and its network.
Most of our events are open to both members and non-members, though a few are member-exclusive. Non-member tickets are always available where applicable, so you can experience Chamber offerings first-hand.
Members simply enjoy extra value - saving around 33% on each event (often up to £12 per ticket) - plus exclusive invitations and promotional benefits.
Find out more about membership here.
Kingston Chamber events are designed with our community in mind. Expect thoughtful conversations, a diverse mix of attendees and plenty of opportunities to connect, collaborate and grow.
You can email the Kingston Chamber team here.
We’re always happy to help with booking queries, dietary needs, accessibility questions or general event information.
You can browse what’s coming up on our events calendar or sign up to our monthly newsletter for event updates, local news and member stories straight to your inbox.
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We understand plans change. If you can’t attend, please cancel your booing via Eventbrite portal at least two working days before the event to receive a refund. As venues and catering numbers must be confirmed and paid in advance, we may be unable to offer refunds for late cancellations.
Refund terms may vary slightly between events, so please check the event page for specific details
Final Note
Information above is correct at time of publication. For the most current details, please visit the individual event page.