To mark International Women’s Day 2026, Michelle has been featured in industry media reflecting on entrepreneurship, resilience and the importance of supporting the next generation of women in business.
In an interview with Mortgage Solutions, Michelle shared how her early experiences shaped her determination to build financial independence and create opportunities for others. Having bought her first home at just 18 after nearly losing the family home as a teenager, she describes how that moment sparked a lifelong passion for property and business.
Today, as CEO of IMS Property Group, Michelle leads a multi-disciplinary property business while continuing to advocate for greater transparency, collaboration and knowledge-sharing within the industry.
Reflecting on this year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Give to Gain,” Michelle explained that success rarely happens in isolation. Mentorship, shared experience and opening doors for others are vital to creating stronger businesses and more inclusive industries.
Beyond her own business ventures, Michelle is also using her platform to campaign for change through the Childcare Counts initiative, which calls for childcare costs to be recognised as a legitimate tax-deductible expense for the self-employed – a move she believes would help many parents, particularly women, stay in work and grow businesses.
Michelle spoke last week at a local International Women’s Day event hosted by Gardner Leader, bringing together leaders from across business, education and community organisations to share experiences and support the next generation of female entrepreneurs. The event has also been featured in regional media, including UK News Group, The Oxford Mail, and the The Oxford Magazine, highlighting the collaboration between local organisations committed to supporting women in business and the wider community.
For Michelle, International Women’s Day is not only a moment to celebrate progress, but also a reminder of the importance of lifting others as you rise.
“Success gives you the opportunity to open doors for other people,” she says. “And when we do that generously, everyone gains.”
Read the Mortgage Solution article.
