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It feels a rather momentous day to be writing this newsletter, having stayed up late to watch coverage of Barack Obama win the US presidential elections. I've been inspired by this historic event.

Whilst thinking about historic change, on a personal level I'm inspired by making a difference and a groundbreaking organisation called The Hunger Project. The Hunger Project is a global organisation whose aim is, simply, to end hunger in the developing world. However, rather than giving aid in the traditional way, it takes the view that the route to ending hunger is to empower local people to take effective, sustainable and strategic action themselves, through training, education and inspired leadership.

That inspired me earlier this year to join them to raise money and profile in the UK. I invite you to get involved by participating in what is believed to be the world’s first Virtual Global Ball! Happening over one week from 1st-7th December, this is an opportunity for YOU to be part of an amazing ONE of ITS KIND event and for you to give a hand UP to some of the most disadvantaged families in the world, without travelling, dressing up, or even leaving your own computer.

Did you know that it would take just 0.0004% of the world's population to change the lives of 10 million people in India? The Hunger Project is working hard with the people of India to bring about EXTRAORDINARY change, and you can help with just US$15 (currently £9.30) Get the details and tickets at: www.theglobalball.com/virtualball.html. Thank you for your support.

Be inspired at the next Ladies that Lunch which is on Monday 24th November (please note change of day). Our speaker is Davo Ruthven-Stuart, who will stimulate your thinking on how you can make smarter people decisions, help you do the things that you enjoy, focus on the core of your business and the reasons why you set up in the first place.

Davo is a Director of Personal Consultancy Solutions Ltd (PCSL), an HR consultancy specialising in people assessment and development. Its goal is to build greater understanding of people to inform smarter people decisions. Davo spent 6 years on the British National Freestyle Ski Team competing at World Cup Level and has other diverse experiences from business start ups and project management to coaching, leading teams and people development.

Finally, be inspired by the hospitality and great surroundings of Blenheim Palace by coming along to Ladies that Lunch in December (on Tuesday 16th) This is another Open Event welcoming present and past members, other networking groups and visitors who've enjoyed the Ladies that Lunch way of networking. Come and enjoy a delicious 2-course meal and be inspired by the work of Maggie's Centre in Oxford - a place anyone affected by cancer can turn to for help.

I look forward to welcoming you along to both (or either). You can book online or contact me direct on lesley@lesleyreader.co.uk. Or come along to one of the Steer Your Career workshops that I'm running with Rachel Brushfield (see Comment column.)

In its 8th year, this premier annual event for Business Owners is taking place at Central Hall, Westminster and the theme is all about fuelling the future of your business during tough economic challenges.

The day will be an opportunity to meet our speakers, top up your skills and sharpen your mind as you gather all you need to stay competitive to grow and to keep replenishing your business through the tough economic climate ahead.

This is a fantastic opportunity to meet new people and share ideas with fellow female entrepreneurs, this event is being offered to readers of the Ladies that Lunch newsletter at the discounted price of £95+VAT (normal price £120+VAT). To book your place visit: http://www.everywoman.com/Conferences/Conferencecalendar/?id=1620 and quote the code ECL. In return you can expect a day of intensive masterclass workshops, interactive panel discussions and informal networking opportunities over coffee and lunch. Also the dynamic Ruby Wax will be giving an empowering and energising motivational talk to get you fired up and ready to take on the world.

Come along to the Oxford Centre, 333 Banbury Road on Tuesday 19^th November for some FREE expert advice and benefit from the experience of other women who have made a success of setting up on their own.

The day, running from 9:30am-3:30pm, will include sessions on making the right first impressions, getting the financial side of things sorted, inspiration from women who have succeeded and getting web-wise.

For further information and to book your place visit: http://www.whatsstoppingyouevents.co.uk/ or call 01732 878 007. This event is organised by Business Link and sponsored by SEEDA.