Speakers
Christina Schwabenland
Speaker to be confirmed
Dr Christina Schwabenland is an Associate Professor and the Director of the Centre for Leadership Innovation at the University of Bedfordshire. She has worked in the non-profit sector prior to taking on an academic role, and has also published two research monographs and numerous academic articles. Her work centres around the use of creative and arts-based methods in facilitating organisational change, particularly the areas of equality, diversity and inclusion. She is currently managing three research grants focusing on the use of LEGO® Serious Play® to engage tee imagination in overcoming barriers to implementing EDI strategies.
Dr. Winifred Soribe is a finance and entrepreneurship expert committed to helping startups and scale-ups build solid financial models, develop accurate projections, and secure funding for sustainable growth. With a PhD in Entrepreneurial Finance from the University of Bedfordshire and accreditation as a Chartered Accountant (ACCA), she brings together academic depth and hands-on industry experience to guide emerging businesses through the complexities of startup financing.
As the founder of Winifred Soribe Consult, she provides tailored financial consulting, mentorship, and strategic guidance to early-stage and growing businesses across North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. Her work focuses on improving financial literacy, investment readiness, and long-term sustainability for entrepreneurs navigating competitive markets.
Dr. Soribe has played a key role in organizing and moderating high-profile industry events such as the Private Equity Insights Conference and the R.E.A.L Fireside Chat series, both of which serve as platforms to connect founders with investors and provide education on venture capital, financial management, and growth strategies.
Her academic credentials include an MSc in Accounting and Business Finance (Distinction) and a BSc (Hons) in Economics. She has taught entrepreneurial finance, strategic business development, and supply chain management at leading UK institutions including the Ulster University, University of Wales Trinity Saint David, and University of Bedfordshire, mentoring future business leaders and startup founders.