MRC Research Conference 2025
In collaboration with Buckinghamshire New University
Future-proofing Leadership for a
Resilient, Sustainable World
Innovating at the intersection of technology
and human well being
Date & Time: June 18th, 2025 at 09:00 AM
Registration & Submission Deadline: 31st May, 2025
Location: 25-29 Clements Road, Ilford, IG1 1BH
Abstract submission is now closed
We are excited to announce that the 2025 conference will be hosted in partnership with Buckinghamshire New University, bringing together distinguished researchers, industry leaders, and thought pioneers from around the world.
This year’s conference is proudly delivered in collaboration with Buckinghamshire New University.
Conference Objective
Our mission is to unite academics, students, and industry professionals to explore how leadership can drive resilience and sustainability in an era of rapid technological advancements.
- Examine the role of leadership in fostering innovation and sustainability.
- Investigate the intersection of technology and human wellbeing in building resilient systems.
- Showcase groundbreaking research and real-world applications addressing global challenges.
- Foster academic-industry partnerships to drive meaningful change.
Looking Back: 2024 Highlights
Mont Rose College hosted its inaugural research conference in June 2024, themed:
“Sustainable Futures Powered by AI: Nurturing Innovation, Conservation,
and Ethical Considerations.”
With over 200 participants from academia and industry, the event featured globally recognised keynote speakers, innovative breakout sessions, and high-impact poster presentations. It sparked critical conversations at the intersection of ethics, technology, sustainability, and human development.
The 2025 conference builds on that momentum, expanding our focus on leadership, resilience, and future-ready innovation.
What to Expect at the 2025 Conference
- Â High-profile keynote speakers
- Expert panel discussion (Q&A) anchored by Dr. Samson Ojo
- Interactive breakout sessions with industry & academic presenters
- Poster presentations on display all day, with voting
- Best Poster Award announcement

Research Conference Agenda
Time | Event |
---|---|
09:15 am – 09:50 am | Registration and Welcome Reception |
09:50 am – 10:00 am | Opening Speech – Ms. Sayeda Zain |
10:00 am – 10:20 am | Keynote Address 1 – Prof. Sarah Williams Just Because We Don’t See It, Doesn’t Mean It Doesn’t Happen – Women’s Work in Public Relations |
10:20 am – 10:40 am | Keynote Address 2 – Dr. Saira Osama Artificial Intelligence (AI) Technology for Treatment of Acute Ischaemic Stroke in Pakistan |
10:40 am – 10:55 am | Keynote Address 3 – Ms. Tina Benbow From Awareness to Action: Leadership in Supporting Menopausal Women in Academia |
10:55 am – 11:15 am | Coffee Break |
11:15 am – 11:30 am | Keynote Address 4 – Ms. Sayeda Zain The Importance of Leadership in Fostering Innovation and Agility |
11:30 am – 11:50 pm | Keynote Address 5 – Prof. Sainey Faye The Role of Transdisciplinary Leadership in Tackling Barriers to Sustainability and Resilience |
11:50 am – 12:10 pm | Keynote Address 6 – Ms. Abby Ghafoor The Power of the Pivot: Embracing Change to Finding a path |
12:10 pm – 01:00 pm | Panel Discussion (Q&A) – Prof. Sarah Williams, Dr. Saira Osama, Ms. Tina Benbow, Ms. Sayeda Zain, Prof. Sainey Faye, Ms. Abby Ghafoor Anchor: Dr. Samson Ojo |
01:00 pm – 01:30 pm | Lunch Break |
01:30 pm – 02:00 pm | Poster Presentations and Networking Browse selected posters on display throughout the venue and vote for your favourite. The Best Poster will be announced during the closing ceremony. |
02:00 pm – 03:30 pm | Breakout Sessions Room 1 Anchors: Dr. Anh Nghiem & Dr. Smita Shukla Room 2 Anchors: Prof. Fred Yamoah & Dr. Piyumika Gamage |
03:30 pm – 03:45 pm | Award Presentation – Dr. Samson Ojo / Mr. Bilal Sheikh |
03:45 pm – 04:00 pm | Closing Remarks and Acknowledgements – Dr. Samson Ojo |
04:00 pm | Conference Close |
Join us for a day of insightful presentations, engaging discussions, and networking opportunities. We look forward to fostering knowledge exchange and collaboration at Mont Rose College Research Conference.
Note: Agenda subject to change. Detailed information about each session will be provided during the conference.
Meet Our Keynote Speakers

Prof. Sarah Williams PFHEA
Just Because We Don’t See It, Doesn’t Mean It Doesn’t Happen – Women’s Work in Public Relations
Pro Vice-Chancellor (External Collaborations), Buckinghamshire New University
A leading voice in strategic communication and leadership, Prof. Williams brings rich academic and industry insight into digital transformation, public relations, and the evolving nature of professionalism. đź”— Find out more about Sarah

Dr. Saira Osama
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Technology for Treatment of Acute Ischaemic Stroke in Pakistan
Founder & CEO, CerebroCure Technologies | Member, AI for Good Steering Committee
An award-winning AI healthcare innovator and advocate for women in tech, Dr. Osama’s work focuses on stroke diagnosis solutions and ethical AI adoption. 🔗 Find out more about Saira

Ms. Tina Benbow
From Awareness to Action: Leadership in Supporting Menopausal Women in Academia
Lecturer, School of Business and Law, Buckinghamshire New University
With a background in industry and academia, Tina leads on management, leadership development, and workplace wellbeing, preparing ethical and future-ready business leaders. đź”— Find out more about Tina

Ms. Sayeda Zain
The Importance of Leadership in Fostering Innovation and Agility
Principal, Mont Rose College
An experienced academic leader with cross-disciplinary expertise, Sayeda champions inclusive, career-focused education and strategic leadership development. đź”— Find out more about Sayeda

Prof. Sainey Faye
The Role of Transdisciplinary Leadership in Tackling Barriers to Sustainability and Resilience
Deputy Head of School – Business and Law, Buckinghamshire New University
A global expert in sustainable financial governance, Prof. Faye offers deep insight into ethical leadership and transdisciplinary approaches to resilience and sustainability. Find out more about Sainey

Ms Abby Ghafoor
The Power of the Pivot: Embracing Change to Finding a Path
Founder & CEO, Arc Growth
With a strong background in talent management and executive coaching, Abby works across sectors to support leaders and organisations in unlocking their full potential. She is passionate about empowering underrepresented groups and driving systemic change through inclusive leadership. Find out more about Abby
Submit your Paper
For further information, please contact us at
research.centre@mrcollege.ac.uk
If you have any accessibility needs or special requirements to enhance your experience at the conference, kindly let us know in advance. We are committed to ensuring an inclusive, supportive, and welcoming environment for all participants.
We look forward to welcoming you to this landmark event. Let’s collaborate, innovate, and lead the way towards a more resilient and sustainable future.