We Are PoWEr, the umbrella brand of Northern PoWEr Women Awards and PoWEr Collective CIC, an inclusive movement dedicated to advancing gender equality, social mobility and diversity, is collaborating with AWS, a global leader in cloud computing, to hold a Cross Sector PoWEr Up session in Manchester on Wednesday 6th May 2026.

The We Are PoWEr team will be working with AWS to bring together professionals from across multiple industries such as technology, financial services, construction and so many more which will include young professionals who are early on in their careers as well as experienced leaders, to address the growing skills gap and advance gender diversity across the tech sector and beyond.

The Cross Sector PoWEr Up is a live, interactive mentoring experience which is designed to accelerate networking and career development. We Are PoWEr uses a speed mentoring format and mentees will engage directly with experienced We Are PoWEr partners, including AWS leaders, to gain insights, career guidance and exposure to different career pathways. Mentors will also benefit from fresh perspectives and the opportunity to connect with emerging talent.

In addition, organisations that take part benefit internally by providing their employees with access to high-quality mentoring, networking opportunities and cross-sector insights, helping to support professional development, boost engagement and strengthen future talent pipelines within their own teams.

As there is an ongoing skills gap which continues to impact the tech sector it is more important than ever to provide initiatives that enable access, visibility and real-world guidance which are critical, particularly for women who remain underrepresented across many tech roles.

The Cross Sector PoWEr Up aims to break down barriers and assist in creating meaningful connections through networking, sharing lived experiences and providing participants with the tools and networks needed to progress. By creating a space that encourages open conversation around challenges and opportunities, the event supports a more inclusive and future-ready workforce and helps deliver positive impact to the local community.

Simone Roche MBE, Founder and CEO of We Are PoWEr, shared:

“Cross Sector PoWEr Ups are a pivotal part of our work and through our teamwork with AWS, we’re helping to address the growing digital skills gap. These sessions connect mentees with industry experts giving them the knowledge, confidence and networks to pursue careers in tech.

At the same time, businesses gain access to emerging talent as well as valuable insights into the skills early-career professionals need helping to build stronger, more inclusive talent pipelines for the future.”

Alison Kay, Vice President and Managing Director, UK and Ireland, at AWS, added: “The North West is one of the UK’s most exciting and fast-growing regions, and as a local employer, we committed to supporting the communities where our people live and work. This collaboration with We Are PoWEr provides a meaningful opportunity to connect early career talent – in particular, underrepresented groups – with AWS customers and partners, address the growing skills gap, and help ensure the region is well positioned to take advantage of the opportunities that AI will create.”