Spotlight on Four Remarkable Females

This International Women's Day, we're spotlighting four brilliant women in Prodigy's world-females who inspire us, lead transformative change and make a positive impact. 

Our Tote Bag Supplier: Smruti Sriram / CEO / Bag of Ethics / Supreme Creations 

The driving force behind Bags of Ethics, Smruti has propelled the company to the forefront of sustainable solutions for supermarkets, beauty brands, fashion, and retail. With a relentless commitment to reducing single-use plastic bags and packaging, the 100%-owned supply chain begins in Pondicherry, India, where over 80% of the workforce is female.  

When she’s not fighting plastic Smruti loves walking, taking her son to zoos and farms, and singing. 

Our Charity Partner: Aileen Thomson/ Head of Philanthropy/ The Felix Project 

As the Head of Philanthropy at London’s largest food redistribution charity, Aileen is a champion in the fight against food waste and hunger. Through her unwavering dedication and leadership in fundraising and donor engagement, she has made a profound impact on communities across the city. In 2023 alone, the charity distributed 32 million meals to those in need. 

Married to Matt, step-mum to fantastic teenager Peter and dog-mum to an Italian mutt called Carlos, in her spare time Aileen sings with a small choir local to her home in Putney.  

Our Lawyer: Emma Green / Partner / Bird & Bird 

An expert in intellectual property, Emma specialises in formulating international brand strategies and providing counsel on trademark licensing and commercial IP matters. In 2015, Emma founded Bird & Bird's International Wellness group, propelling the firm to prominence as a thought leader and legal authority in this global industry. 

Emma is not only a passionate kickboxer and Pilates enthusiast but also an ardent Formula 1 fan. If she were to pursue another career, she would choose interior designer or floristry. 

Our Amplifier: Sahar Hashemi OBE / Founder / Buy Women Built 

Lawyer-turned-entrepreneur and former Coffee Republic founder Sahar has used her deep knowledge of the corporate and start-up worlds to become an internationally recognised thought leader on the entrepreneurial mindset. In 2022, she founded Buy Women Built to boost economic recovery by bringing consumer support and recognition to female-founded businesses.