Two Bromford Flagship leaders share their wisdom in new book for International Women’s Day

Two women from Bromford Flagship feature in a new book being launched to mark International Women’s Day (March 8).

More Things I Wish I’d Known, edited by Michelle Gant, is a collection of inspiring, moving and thought-provoking essays by women for women from all walks of life.

Among the contributors are Lorna Blackmore, Bromford Flagship’s Director of Communications and External Affairs, and Lisa Collen, Director of People and Culture.

Michelle, from Norfolk, said she had been “blown away” by the range of personal experiences, thoughts, and ideas the contributors had shared to support and inspire other women. She said: “The result is this collection of personal essays which is insightful and moving. I hope that readers will find something that interests, inspires, or connects with them within the words, just as I have.

“I am really grateful to everyone who has lent their voice to this new book – I do not underestimate what a thing it is to share of yourself so vulnerably and openly.

“It was really important to me and to all the contributors that we sell this book to raise funds to support other women, and children, and 100% of all royalties will be going to Women’s Aid.”

Themes covered include body confidence, friendship, grief, careers, and motherhood. There is also space for the reader to become the writer, capturing their own reflections and ideas at the end.

Left, Lisa Collen, Director of People and Culture at Bromford Flagship, and right, Lorna Blackmore, Bromford Flagship’s Director of Communications and External Affairs

The book follows on from Michelle’s first collection of essays by women– The Things I Wish I’d Known – which was published in 2023, which supported the same charity.

Lorna’s essay is about challenging societal norms, redefining beauty, and empowering women to embrace their worth.

She writes: “As women, we’re often taught to shrink ourselves—not just physically, but emotionally and intellectually. I wish I’d known that it’s okay to take up space, to speak your mind, and to demand respect.

“Embrace your uniqueness, celebrate your strengths, and remember: you are so much more than what the world sees.”

Lisa’s essay focuses on self-awareness, trusting your instincts, and staying present as key to navigating life.

Lisa writes: “We can’t change the past, but we can learn from it.

“We can’t guarantee the future, or anything beyond this moment.  So give yourselves a moment to stop, think, and be.

“Someone once told me to carry an invisible bench in my pocket and remember to get it out and sit on it sometimes.

“By doing so, I remain in the present and can take in the pleasure of being here right now.”

More Things I Wish I’d Known is £7.99 on Amazon, find it here https://amzn.eu/d/eWgSbj9