Chamber president joins Dragon's Den entrepreneur at conference

Chamber president Deb Leary is joining a line up of top names, including a winning 'Dragon 's Den ' entrepreneur, at a Birmingham conference celebrating women in business.

Chika Russel, founder and chief executive of Chika 's foods, won TV 's 'Dragon 's Den' in 2015.

She will join Deb at the 'Women in Business - Trading Across the Commonwealth ' conference, which aims to champion, celebrate, connect and empower women in the Commonwealth.

The Department of International Trade event takes place on 8 March at Austin Court.

Deb (pictured) said: “I 'm delighted to be a part of what promises to be an outstanding event focused on highlighting the fantastic opportunities for businesswomen across the Commonwealth.

“Never has there been a better time for women business leaders to reach out into international markets. We are globally connected thanks to the internet and social media. Business isn 't about where you are, it 's about who you are and the impact you make.

“Whilst challenges exist, these can be overcome through awareness and the right support. Break the challenges - take the opportunities. ”

Female entrepreneurs and government officials will lead panel discussions covering the challenges and opportunities of international trade, providing tools and support to increase exports at the conference.

Other key speakers include Baroness Ruby McGregor-Smith, the first Asian woman to be appointed to a role at a Financial Times Stock Exchange listed business and Sally Gunnell, an Olympic athlete who won gold in 1992.