Sign inA conversation to guide an emerging generation
Starkey recently welcomed nearly 100 guests for a first Women in Audiology event. An expert panel representing all corners of the industry took the stage, offering powerful insights and candid reflections on their experiences, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the lessons they’ve learned — all with the aim of inspiring the next generation of professionals in hearing care.
Birmingham’s Park Regis. June 2025. As the sun sets behind the Skyloft, some 100 guests fill the air of the inaugural Women in Audiology event with optimism and meaningful connections.
Courtesy of Starkey
Starkey, as its spokesperson declared to this publication, was “proud to support an event that has no connection to product or sales”. The conversation was an important one, and it is only just beginning, says Starkey. In focus is the future of audiology and the “incredible” contributions women make to the field of audiology, keeping in sight the ways women can help shape a positive future for the industry.
Risky approach out of comfort zones and into the age of AI
Starkey says it is committed to moving the conversation forward and to hosting other Women in Audiology gatherings.
Courtesy of Starkey
Keynote speaker Claire Koryczan delivered a presentation on Women in Leadership in the Age of AI. A renowned consultant, speaker, coach and strategist, “Claire offered us insights and advice on a wide range of topics ranging from the power that comes from taking a risk and stepping out of your comfort zone to the wide range of opportunities that audiology has to offer everyone”, explained Starkey UK’s spokesperson.
Later in the evening, an expert panel representing all corners of the industry took the stage, for some candid reflections based on their experiences in audiology.
An honest conversation about a career in audiology
Exchanging thoughts on stage, L to R: Kirran Saimbi; Bridgitte Harley; Claire Koryczan; Karen Shepherd; and Sarah-Jane Brown.
Courtesy of Starkey
The speakers were well-known figures: Karen Shepherd of Professional Standards, Boots Hearingcare; Bridgitte Harley, Director & Lead Clinical Audiologist, The Hearing Clinic, and a former Audiologist of the Year; Kirran Saimbi, Professional Services and Training Manager at Scrivens; Sarah-Jane Brown, Owner and Senior Audiologist, SJB Hearing Company.
Starkey says it hosted the event to recognise the achievements of women in audiology and to create space to have an open and honest conversation about the challenges and opportunities that a career in audiology can bring. And after receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback, the manufacturer is now looking to fix another calendar date for a follow-up event.
