Elevate unites a community of bright, ambitious young women from the Haberdasher family of schools, inspiring them to be bold in shaping their futures and resilient when facing challenges.
Delivered in partnership with Murray Edwards College, Cambridge, the programme connects students with role models, offers guidance on academic pathways, and provides a glimpse into university life. Through workshops, visits, and online sessions, Elevate seeks to raise aspirations, build confidence, and foster a supportive network of women committed to academic excellence.
“We’re delighted to have launched the Elevate Programme in partnership with Haberdashers’ schools. It recognises and nurtures the potential of young people identified by their teachers as having the curiosity and ambition to go further. Through Elevate, participants engage with the Murray Edwards College community and Cambridge University, hear from current students, and gain the confidence to pursue their goals. This initiative reflects our commitment to helping the next generation aim high and explore the possibilities ahead.”
Dr Victoria Harvey, Senior Tutor, Murray Edwards College, University of Cambridge
The programme launched on 10 November at Haberdashers’ Hall, welcoming 50 Year 12 students and 35 Year 10 students for a day of inspirational talks and skill-building workshops. Opening remarks from Arabella Gonzalez, Director for Schools and Estates, set the tone for an event focused on ambition and resilience.
“Today is about leadership — but not just one kind of leadership.
We often think of leaders as loud, confident, always in charge. Some are visionary — full of ideas and courage to ask “what if?”, some are steady and calm — the quiet anchors others rely on, some lead by doing — practical, sleeves rolled up, making things happen. And many women naturally lead in ways that are considered, collaborative, considerate and co-constructive — bringing people together, building trust, fixing problems thoughtfully.”
Arabella Gonzalez, Director for Schools and Estates
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Dr Victoria Harvey reminded students that your choice of university course does not define your career, citing examples of Cambridge alumni – including Claudia Winkleman! – who pursued diverse paths after studying subjects they loved. Sharing her own journey, she left students with a powerful message to pursue your passion and aim high, even when challenges arise.
The day would not have been possible without the contributions of remarkable Haberdasher women—former students, members, and scholars. Charlotte Hume (Member of the Livery) chaired a panel featuring HHJ Anuja Dhir KC (Assistant) and Jane Burton (Member of the Freedom). They were also joined by Dr Victoria Harvey, and Amelia, a Murray Edwards undergraduate. The panel shared details from their own journeys and how they approach deciding what path to follow when they left school. For some, this included times they had faced open discrimination, or difficulties due to ill health. Despite varied paths, a common theme across the panel was to be tenacious in the face of difficulties, have confidence in yourself and follow your passion.
Students valued the honesty and vulnerability shown by the panel, which gave weight to their advice:
“The panel of speakers were extremely helpful—I found their perspectives reassuring and inspiring.”
“I loved speaking to the students and hope to achieve great things one day.”
Another key takeaway was the importance of surrounding yourself with peers who challenge and support you. Elevate is not just about individual growth—it creates a lasting network for Haberdasher girls and women to champion each other. Year 12 students will stay connected through the Habs Elevate Forum (a safeguarded online space on the Habs Aspire website) and will meet Murray Edwards students again during a July college visit. They will also lead activities for younger year groups, ensuring the ripple effect of Elevate continues.
Afternoon sessions spotlighted the diverse journeys of Haberdasher women, with advice such as:
“I was talked out of applying to Oxford or Cambridge—I’d tell my 17-year-old self to believe and go for it.”
“Support from others is vital—listen, accept it, and know your worth. Find your voice and use it.”
“You can’t predict who you’ll be in five, ten, or twenty years. Nurture your passions and work ethic now—you’ll thank yourself later.”
Students honed communication skills in workshops on body language and professional presentation—essential for university interviews and beyond. Murray Edwards College delivered two sessions: one on Cambridge courses and applications, and another offering candid insights from current students.
The day closed with a dinner joined by former students of Haberdasher schools and women members, including many of those who had shared advice through profiles. An energetic atmosphere continued into the evening, with the girls in attendance effusive about the role models they had met throughout the day. This is summed up by one student’s comment:
“It was a privilege to be here.”
A heartfelt thank you to all members who supported this programme—whether in person or from afar. Your contributions are shaping a future where Haberdasher women aim higher, dream bigger, and support each other every step of the way.
