On Friday 14 March, 2025, 150 students at Christ the King Aquinas School in South London gathered for an International Women’s Day panel aimed at boosting self-respect and unlocking potential. The event, organized by Urban Synergy, featured a panel of inspiring professionals who shared valuable insights on the importance of self-worth in achieving confidence, ambition, and success.
Here are five key lessons from the event that can help individuals take themselves seriously and boost self-respect:
1. Master your Mindset – Be your own “Thought Bouncer”
One of the panelists, Victoria Silverman, Head of Communications at Urban Synergy, emphasized the need to manage negative thoughts by “frisking” them like a bouncer with a toothache. Instead of allowing negativity to drain energy, individuals should focus on finding solutions. As Silverman pointed out, if an invading force were approaching, one would not just dwell on the attack, but rather create a plan of action. This lesson highlights the importance of controlling thoughts, as they shape how one sees themselves and the world.
2. Push forward through Rejection
Hawa-Kaytee Jalloh, IT Placement Analyst at TJX Europe, Chair of Urban Synergy Youth Council, and Cyber Security Undergraduate at Aston University, reminded the audience that rejection is inevitable in life. Whether it is a job application, a university place, or an opportunity one desires, setbacks will occur. But self-respect means recognizing that one is more than just a single “no.” Jalloh’s advice is to view rejection not as failure, but as a step forward in disguise.
3. Present yourself with Poise and Confidence
Dianne Johnson, Head of Programmes & Engagement at Urban Synergy, stressed the importance of making a good first impression. Whether it is attending an interview or stepping into a new environment, presenting oneself with confidence and professionalism earns respect from others and from oneself. This lesson highlights the significance of showing up smart, poised, and ready for the opportunities one wants.
4. Don’t let grades or expectations define you
During the panel, one audience member asked the panelists, “What do you wish you had done differently?” The answer was clear: do not assume that top grades in math are necessary to work in the technology industry. There are many other skills and qualities that are valued in the industry. The panelists shared their own experiences, with one achieving B, D, D, E at A-Level and another having no A-Levels at all, yet both still building successful careers. This lesson encourages individuals to find what they are good at and seek guidance from a mentor who can help them see beyond the expectations of parents or teachers.
5. Identify your Strengths – and play to them
Megan Harris, Head of Operations at Dynamic Planner, emphasized the importance of recognizing one’s strengths. She advised individuals to “work out what you’re good at.” Instead of focusing on weaknesses, individuals should focus on developing their natural talents. This lesson highlights the significance of respecting oneself enough to embrace and utilize one’s strengths.
Final Thought: Take yourself seriously
The panelists left the students with one key message: self-respect starts with the individual. Whether it is through perseverance, presentation, or personal growth, owning one’s worth is the first step towards success. The event, distributed by https://pressat.co.uk/, aimed to inspire and empower individuals to take themselves seriously and unlock their full potential.