TWO women have teamed up to host a special event.

You Belong On The Board aims to encourage young women aged between 16 and 23 to aspire to a career in business.

The free event will take place next Thursday, December 12, at 6pm at the Brighthelm Centre in North Road, Brighton, and has been organised by Brighton businesswoman Helen Bailey and Catherine Park, a business student at the University of Sussex.

Helen, founder of market research company Aviatrix, said: “We have eight speakers from a range of industries who will give short talks about their careers and then we’ll have a live discussion with our panellists about perceived barriers for women and how to break them down.

“I think confidence is one of the main challenges.”

Catherine said: “I’m a believer that the best inspiration you can get is by seeing people who are already doing what you want to do.

“Female role models are not as visible – everyone knows about Richard Branson, but no one has heard of Melanie Perkins, who created the design tool and billion dollar business Canva.

“There are so many great businesswomen in Brighton and we’re really excited to champion them.”

Helen met Catherine at a university event the 20-year-old organised earlier this year, and the pair now host a podcast together, also called You Belong On The Board.

Catherine said: “The way we look at business is very different, so we can learn from each other.”

Helen said: “My generation was all about making money, but hers really wants to make a difference. Our message is to not let anyone stop you doing what you want to do.

“Mostly we just want girls to come and be inspired.”

To reserve a place at the event, go to www.fixr.co/event/791799405.

The You Belong On The Board podcast is available on YouTube, Spotify and iTunes.