Inspiring Minds to Think Big 2026!

This year’s Inspiring Minds 2026 brought together a fantastic panel of Reigatian professionals and industry leaders to discuss and share their experience on the theme Give to Gain.

Set in the Harrison Centre, the evening saw a record attendance of students, parents and Reigatian professionals, including former students.

Guests were welcomed by our Lower Sixth students and had the opportunity to network prior to the event over drinks and nibbles.

We were delighted to bring together some professionals and members of the community, a fine mix of former students and current parents (or in some cases, all of the above!), who kindly gave up their time to come and share their insights about their career and experiences.

The theme of the evening, Give to Gain, was a great opportunity to explore the power that generosity, mentorship and collaboration can have on shaping meaningful career and lives. Led with confidence and thoughtfulness by our dedicated Lower Sixth Foundation Committee students, the panellists shared a mix of anecdotes and advice on:

How giving—through time, knowledge, or support—can create lasting impact

Lessons learned from personal and professional journeys of sharing and growth

Ways in which the next generation can embrace a “give to gain” mindset to achieve both success and fulfilment

The key points from each panellist were:

Tara Chapman (RGS 1997-2005) – Director of Frontier Economics

• Create a culture of “see one, do one, teach one” - shared knowledge multiplies impact. 
• Elevate underrepresented voices - inclusion strengthens outcomes for all. 
• You rise by lifting others - making those around you succeed enhances your own success. 

 Karen Davis (current parent) – Founder KD People and Independent HR Consultant

• Stay focused on the prize - resilience and sacrifice underpin long-term success. 
• Be a visible, values-led role model. 
• Take calculated risks - ask yourself, “Will I regret not trying?” 

Louise Hodges (RGS 1989 -1991 and current parent) – Director of International Communications - Ancestry

• Reinvent the objective in adversity - setbacks are opportunities to evolve. 
• Invest in relationships - networks compound over time. 
• Stay curious, step outside your comfort zone, and intentionally build your brand. 

Gareth Mostyn (RGS 1983-1990) – Director Sovereign Network Group

• Apply your skills to social purpose - small contributions can make a meaningful difference. 
• Listen first and align as a team to perform at your best. 
• Measure success beyond money - relationships, wellbeing, and kindness matter most. 

 Emma Stephens (current parent) – Chief Risk Officer HSBC Innovation Banking UK

• You succeed individually by succeeding as part of a team - collaboration is key. 
• Take the leap - growth often comes when you feel slightly unready. If you feel completely ready, you’ll probably get bored very quickly
• Pay it forward early - raise others as you climb. 

The event was another brilliant example of our connected community coming together and supporting each other, a brilliant demonstration of what Give to Gain really means: when we give back our time, our stories and support, we all gain something far greater in return. Students and professionals alike were left lifted, inspired and full of new perspectives to embark on their future journeys.

A huge thank you to our panellists, our Lower Sixth RGS Foundation Ambassadors, and everyone who attended for making the evening such a success. We look forward to the next Inspiring Minds to Think Big event and the continued exchange of ideas that help shape the future of Reigatians.

View the photo gallery here.

Our next Reigatian Hub event will be on 13 May 2026 at Drop Kick Brewing in Dorking.