Celebrating our inspiring alumnae

In honour of Women’s Equality Day, we’re spotlighting some of Newcastle University’s remarkable graduates who are breaking barriers, driving change, and making a significant impact in their respective fields.

Women’s Equality Day, observed annually on August 26th, commemorates the passage of the 19th Amendment in the United States, granting women the right to vote. But beyond this historical milestone, the day serves as a powerful reminder to celebrate the ongoing fight for gender equality worldwide.

These women are leading with purpose, passion, and resilience—showcasing the power of education and entrepreneurship in shaping a more equitable future.

Bethany Ainsley (MBA, 2024) – Founder of OptiMe and Nouveau Wellbeing

Bethany is an entrepreneur with a passion for health and well-being. She is the founder of OptiMe, a digital platform that supports workplace well-being, and Nouveau Wellbeing, an award-winning organisation that delivers health and well-being programs across the UK.

Bethany’s work focuses on creating environments where individuals can thrive both mentally and physically. Through OptiMe, she addresses the growing need for mental health support in the workplace, offering tailored well-being programs that help businesses cultivate healthier, more productive teams. Meanwhile, Nouveau Wellbeing provides accessible health programs to communities, promoting active and healthy lifestyles for all.

Bethany’s entrepreneurial journey showcases the impact of women-led businesses on societal well-being. By placing health at the forefront of her work, she is helping to shape a future where well-being is prioritised in both professional and personal spaces.

Gabby Jahanshahi-Edlin (BA English Literature, Fine Art Drawing and History of Art, 2010) – Founder of Bloody Good Period

Gabby Jahanshahi-Edlin, a Newcastle University alumna, is the founder of Bloody Good Period, a charity that tackles period poverty by providing menstrual products to those who cannot afford them. Her organisation also offers education on menstrual health to help break down the stigma surrounding periods.

Gabby’s journey began with a simple, yet profound idea: that no one should be held back by their period. What started as a grassroots initiative has now grown into a national movement, addressing the needs of thousands of people across the UK. Gabby’s work earned her recognition through our alumni achievement awards in the field of outstanding social and civic contribution, which is a testament to her relentless commitment to advancing gender equality.

Through her work, Gabby has shed light on an often-overlooked issue, championing menstrual equity as a fundamental human right. Her story exemplifies how one woman’s vision can drive societal change, making a difference in the lives of many.

Rebecca Hetherington (Low Intensity Therapies PGCert, 2015) – Co Founder of Mindstars

Rebecca is dedicated to addressing the mental health crisis affecting children through Mindstars. With a deep personal connection to mental health challenges, Rebecca and her co-founder, Marisa May, launched Mindstars in early 2020. Their mission is driven by their own experiences with mental health struggles during both childhood and adulthood, and they are committed to making a difference to the lives of young people.

Under Rebecca's leadership, Mindstars is tackling the alarming rise in the number of children needing mental health support—a demand that far exceeds the capacity of the NHS.

Rebecca’s work with Mindstars reflects her unwavering commitment to social change and mental health advocacy. By focusing on preventative care and accessible support, she is helping to reshape the landscape of mental health services for children in the UK.

Fiona Moss (BA English Language and Literature, 2013) – Business coach and Director of The Natalie Kate Moss Trust

Fiona Moss dedicated her career to empowering women to unlock their potential. As a business mentor, coach, and advocate for personal development, Fiona helps women navigate their careers with confidence and purpose. She focuses on helping women who feel stuck or unfulfilled to realign their lives with their passions and goals.

Fiona’s work goes beyond traditional career coaching; she emphasises the importance of mental well-being and self-care in the pursuit of success. By encouraging women to break free from societal expectations and create their own definitions of success, Fiona has helped countless individuals transform their careers and lives.

Today, Fiona generates funds for the research into the prevention and treatment of brain haemorrhages at Manchester University.

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