The UK’s largest celebration of women in business!
EVAS Reception at the House of Lords
EVAS Reception at the House of Lords
Where Influence Meets Opportunity!
Thursday 21 May, 1 – 4:30pm, Cholmondeley Room & Terrace, House of Lords, Westminster, London
Speakers – Panel Talk – Afternoon Tea – Drinks Reception – Networking
Keynote Speaker
Theo Paphitisis a renowned entrepreneur, retail magnate and long-standing Dragon on BBC’s Dragons’ Den, with a business empire spanning retail, property and finance. Leaving school at 16 with no qualifications due to dyslexia, Theo built his career from the shop floor up, going on to acquire and transform major high street brands including Ryman and Robert Dyas, and launching global lingerie brand Boux Avenue.
Founder of #SBS Small Business Sunday, Theo has championed and amplified thousands of small businesses across the UK, many of them female-led, creating one of the most recognised grassroots business communities in the country. A passionate advocate for entrepreneurship, social mobility and dyslexia awareness, Theo continues to use his platform to influence business conversations at the highest level, making his presence at Westminster a powerful endorsement of visibility, advocacy and opportunity for women in enterprise.
Guest Speaker
Harriet Hastings is the Co-Founder of Biscuiteers, the luxury gifting brand she launched in 2007 after spotting a gap in the market for beautifully crafted food gifts. With a background in publishing and brand communications, Harriet has grown Biscuiteers from a kitchen table idea into a nationally recognised name, known for its iconic iced biscuits and pioneering icing cafés. A passionate advocate for female entrepreneurship and founding member of Buy Women Built, Harriet champions women-led brands and creative business growth, making her a powerful voice on building brands that leave a lasting impression.
Opportunities like this don’t hang around. The iconic House of Lords terrace. A powerhouse guest speaker. Thought leaders who are driving change. Trailblazing entrepreneurs who are impacting the UK’s economic growth. Decision makers and influential connections who could open the door to your next business deal. If you want introductions, insight and impact in one afternoon, this is the place to be!
Join female founders, leaders, investors, policymakers and our much-loved allies for a very special afternoon at one of the UK’s most iconic venues. The Cholmondeley Room opens onto a private riverside terrace with sweeping views of the Thames. A breath taking backdrop for high-value conversations and new connections – and plenty of selfies!
This is not just another reception. It’s a catalyst: high-calibre founders, buyers, media and allies in one iconic setting, and a limited guest list. If you’re serious about #EVAS2026, don’t watch it on Instagram. Be there.
Hosted with the support of Baroness Jo Valentine, Crossbench Peer and former Chief Executive of London First, widely known for championing major business and regeneration initiatives including Crossrail and wider urban renewal.
What To Expect
A world-class setting the House of Lords’ principal function room and terrace overlooking the Thames.
Guest Speaker To be announced (think: bona-fide powerhouse).
Panel & networking Meet EVAS winners, finalists, sponsors, judges and supporters.
Welcome drinks & afternoon tea Conversations that turn visibility into opportunity.
Who should attend? Female founders and leaders, senior allies, buyers opening their supply chains, investors, media, policy influencers, and anyone serious about accelerating women in business.
Why attend? Visibility with impact, raise your profile on a national stage and meet powerhouses driving business to women. High-value introductions; connect with female founders and decision makers, buyers, partners and media.
Momentum for #EVAS2026 Discover what’s new and how to get involved.
Become a partner (limited opportunities)
Promote your brand alongside the UK’s largest celebration of women in business and reach a national audience of founders, decision-makers and media.