Sonia Kumar MP tells the room how delighted she was to be asked to host Chamber UK and 50:50 Parliament’s International Women’s Day Reception.
To mark International Women’s Day 2025, Chamber UK and 50:50 Parliament brought together a cross-party community of changemakers in Speaker’s State Apartments for an evening of shared purpose and inspiration. This year’s theme, #AccelerateAction was a key theme of one of our hosts, and first-time MP, Sonia Kumar who took to the podium to share her remarkable journey.
“I’m self-made, as a woman. I fought hard, I asked questions, I spoke to a lot of people, and I got a lot of advice.”
Sonia Kumar MP
Kumar thanked 50:50 Parliament for asking her to host the event. She remembered fondly replying to the invitation, “yes, of course I want to host today!”
As the first female MP to represent Dudley – and the first ethnic minority MP in the borough – Kumar offered an honest and moving account of the challenges and triumphs she has faced.
Spotlight on Resilience and Self-Made Leadership
Kumar did not arrive in Parliament through traditional routes. A physiotherapist by background, she entered politics with no party connections, no insider knowledge, and no political studies. What she did have was a drive to serve – and the determination to learn as she went.
Encouraging attendees to take part in 50:50’s training programme, Kumar emphasised that women do not need to be ‘ready’ to stand – they need to decide to stand. And once they do, they will find the support and strength to succeed.
“Tell them you don’t care. And stand anyway.”
Sonia Kumar MP
Celebrating Role Models and Challenging Barriers
Kumar’s speech resonated with anyone who has ever been told they are “Too young,” “too old,” “too inexperienced” or “too busy” to lead. Drawing on the everyday resilience of women juggling jobs, care responsibilities, and more, she urged attendees to reject these doubts and keep going.
Supporting Candidates – No Political Background Required
Kumar’s central message was clear: you do not need to come from politics to make an impact in politics. What matters is commitment, courage, and community – and she reminded the audience that support is always available.
In an offer of support for prospective parliamentary candidates, she told the audience, “If you need advice or support – come to any of us. We’re more than happy to help.”
Watch, Share, Inspire
Want to hear from a trailblazer breaking barriers in Westminster?
Watch Sonia Kumar MP’s inspiring story from physiotherapy to Parliament and discover why your voice matters in politics.
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Bayer has provided sponsorship funding, which supported logistics and materials for this event. Chamber maintained complete editorial control for the event and outputs.
Bicycle Therapeutics also provided sponsorship support, ensuring the success of the evening while allowing the organisers full independence over content and discussions.