Three Milton Keynes women, three different journeys and one shared mission: helping other women grow

Three Milton Keynes businesswomen draw on their life and career experiences to launch Braver Spaces, a new community inspired by the support, encouragement and connections they wish they'd had along the way.

Della, Jo, Kathryn - Co-founders of Braver Spacesplaceholder image
Della, Jo, Kathryn - Co-founders of Braver Spaces | Braver Spaces Ltd

Milton Keynes, 20 October 2026 – Three local businesswomen who have navigated career changes, family life, personal challenges and life's unexpected twists have joined forces to launch Braver Spaces, a new community built on a simple belief: women achieve more when they support one another.

Drawing on decades of professional expertise and their own lived experiences, Della Judd, Jo Coxhill and Kathryn Charlton wanted to create something they would have valued throughout their own journeys: a supportive space where women can have honest conversations, share experiences, learn new skills, build meaningful connections and encourage one another to pursue their ambitions.

Having experienced the challenges of balancing careers with family life, navigating leadership, changing priorities, burnout and starting again, the three founders recognise the difference that encouragement, fresh perspectives and the right support can make.

Kathryn Charlton, co-founder of Braver Spaces, said:

"Between us, we've experienced so much through our careers and personal lives, and we've learnt an enormous amount along the way. Looking back, I know there were times when having access to other women's experiences, encouragement and perspectives would have made such a difference.

"We wanted to take everything we've learnt, both professionally and personally, and create something that gives other women those opportunities. Somewhere they can be themselves, explore new ideas, learn from one another and feel encouraged to go after what matters to them.

"And we want to have some fun along the way! Life is about so much more than work and responsibilities, and we believe personal growth and meaningful connections should also bring enjoyment."

Bringing women together through meaningful conversations

Braver Spaces was officially introduced on 14 October at The Conversations That Shape Your Culture, an event hosted by Jo Coxhill in partnership with ABL Recruitment at the Aiimi Head Office in Central Milton Keynes.

The event explored the importance of communication, listening and feedback in creating healthier, more connected workplaces, and how meaningful conversations can make a difference to both individuals and organisations.

It also featured a panel discussion with the three founders, exploring what happens to the people who spend much of their working lives supporting everybody else.

Jo Coxhill, co-founder of Braver Spaces, said:

"Throughout my career, I've seen the difference that good conversations and genuine connections can make. Sometimes it's the conversations that happen outside formal meetings, when people feel comfortable sharing what's really going on, that have the greatest impact.

"I genuinely believe we're never done learning, developing or discovering what we're capable of, and I'm certainly not planning to stop anytime soon! We want Braver Spaces to encourage more of those conversations, bringing women together to share ideas, celebrate their successes and support one another through whatever life brings."

Debbie de Cordova, who hosted the event for ABL Recruitment, welcomed the launch, saying:

"What a lovely moment to launch Braver Spaces! The ladies are so much fun, have so much to share and are full of kindness and support. Braver Spaces is going to be amazing."

More than a networking community

Unlike traditional networking groups, Braver Spaces isn't centred on job titles, business opportunities or exchanging contacts.

It's a community for ambitious women who want to invest in themselves, connect with like-minded people and explore different aspects of their personal and professional lives, whatever stage they're at.

Through a combination of expert-led webinars, masterclasses, practical resources, coaching-led reflection and community conversations, members will be able to explore topics such as confidence, resilience, boundaries, mindset, wellbeing and navigating change.

The founders bring together their expertise in coaching, leadership, communication, emotional intelligence and personal development, creating a community shaped by the interests and experiences of its members.

Della Judd, co-founder of Braver Spaces, said:

"One of the things we've all recognised is how much we can learn from other people's experiences. You don't always need someone to give you the answers. Sometimes a different perspective, a thoughtful question or a conversation with someone who's been through something similar can help you see new possibilities.

"Braver Spaces is about creating those opportunities for women, whether they're progressing in their careers, navigating change, exploring something new or simply making more time for themselves. We want women to feel supported, inspired and excited about what's possible."

Opening the doors to a new community

Braver Spaces officially opens its doors to founding members on 1 November 2026, with a programme of activities designed to encourage learning, connection and personal growth.

The community's first live webinar, focusing on developing a Growth Mindset, will take place on Friday 27 November at 12 noon.

The founders hope Braver Spaces will become a place where women can celebrate achievements, navigate challenges, explore new possibilities and build lasting connections, while enjoying the experience of growing together.

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