In the heart of Mayfair, surrounded by the elegance of Bentley’s most prestigious automobiles, an inspiring gathering of trailblazing women took place at Jack Barclay Bentley’s headquarters. The Powerhouse of Beauty & Wellness Panel, hosted in celebration of International Women’s Day 2025, brought together some of the most influential voices in beauty, sports, business, and mental wellness for an evening of candid storytelling, thought-provoking discussions, and powerful takeaways on resilience, self-belief, and success.
The event, curated by Lara Accison, CEO of LALDN and hosted by HR Owen Bentley, was masterfully moderated by Olivia de Courcy, Beauty Editor and luxury beauty expert. Leading a deep and dynamic conversation, she explored themes of self-expression, mental fortitude, and the power of authenticity with a panel of remarkable women:
Chloe Kelly – English professional footballer, Arsenal & Lionesses
Lynsey Alexander – Global Makeup Artist, Prada
Maya Raichoora – Mental Fitness & Visualisation Expert
Becky Knowles – Founder, Knowles Communications
Perdita Nouril - Beauty Editor Women Health
Perdita Nouril: Red Lipstick: A Legacy of Power
The discussion opened with a powerful reflection on the symbolism of red lipstick. The panel recalled how Elizabeth Arden gifted red lipstick to the suffragettes, transforming it into an emblem of strength, defiance, and empowerment. More than just a cosmetic, red lipstick has become a statement—a way for women to reclaim their confidence, assert their presence, and challenge outdated norms.
Chloe Kelly: Defying Stereotypes in Sport
Football star Chloe Kelly, who plays as a forward for Arsenal and England’s Lionesses, addressed the ongoing challenges women face in sport—particularly the criticism she received for wearing makeup on the pitch. She spoke passionately about how women are still expected to conform to rigid stereotypes and how she refuses to compromise her femininity for the sake of acceptance.
Chloe also shared her personal journey through injury and recovery, recalling the surgery and months of rehabilitation she endured before making her triumphant return. Her perseverance was rewarded when she helped lead England to victory at the European Championship, proving that setbacks are merely stepping stones to greatness.
Lynsey Alexander: Motherhood & Career Ambition
For Lynsey Alexander, a defining moment in her career came when she secured her dream job at Prada while in labour with her child. She shared the extraordinary challenge of balancing new motherhood with an ambitious career, navigating the demands of both without allowing guilt to overshadow her success.
Her words resonated deeply with many in attendance, as she offered raw, honest advice on finding balance, embracing imperfection, and rejecting the societal pressures placed on working mothers. Her story was a testament to the fact that women should never have to choose between family and ambition—they can excel in both.
Maya Raichoora: Harnessing the Power of Visualisation
Mental Fitness & Visualisation Expert Maya Raichoora brought an emotional and transformative element to the evening. She opened up about her own struggles with health issues and personal adversity, taking the audience on a journey through self-discovery and enlightenment.
Maya conducted a guided visualisation session, encouraging attendees to envision their best selves, embrace self-belief, and step into their full potential. The exercise left the audience deeply moved, serving as a powerful reminder that our minds are the greatest tool for success and transformation.
Becky Knowles: The Power of Authenticity & Speaking Up
Founder of Knowles Communications, Becky Knowles delivered a powerful message about self-expression and resilience, drawing inspiration from her own sister, who has been a lifelong role model to her. She was particularly vocal about the importance of women owning their voices, embracing their true selves, and never shrinking in the face of adversity.
Becky shared invaluable advice on self-empowerment, urging women to speak up, be proud, and own their space in any industry. Her words resonated as a clarion call to authenticity, reminding every woman in the room that their voice is their power, and their uniqueness is their greatest asset.
An Evening of Luxury & Celebration
The event’s prestigious setting at Jack Barclay Bentley added an unmistakable sense of grandeur. Surrounded by some of the world’s most exquisite automobiles, including the breathtaking Bentley Continental GT 2025, guests were immersed in an atmosphere of elegance and sophistication.
The evening concluded with a luxurious reception, where guests indulged in bespoke drinks by Silverhand Estate, exquisite canapés, and an exclusive gift bag featuring premium beauty and wellness products from PIXI, Karma, Adem, Youth & Earth, Eyeam, and Eylure London.
A Night to Remember
The Powerhouse of Beauty & Wellness Panel was not just an event—it was a celebration of resilience, ambition, and the unstoppable power of women. The stories shared, the connections made, and the insights gained will continue to inspire and empower long after the evening has passed.
With Bentley’s unwavering commitment to supporting and elevating women, the event underscored an essential truth: strength, elegance, and power are not mutually exclusive—they are the very essence of what it means to be a modern woman.
As the night drew to a close, one message remained clear: authenticity is the ultimate luxury, and women who own their power will continue to redefine success on their own terms.
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