We were delighted to welcome Danica Bellchambers (OA2005) as a special guest at the Secondary School International Women’s Day Assembly in the Cathedral, on March 8th. 

Danica is Executive Director of Analytics for the CHEP network. She has recently completed her third degree in Artificial Intelligence from Northwestern University and is a volunteer at Statistics without Borders. Danica is also finalist in B&T's Women Leading Tech for 2024. 

During her interview with Dr McGonigle, Danica shared a little bit about her time here at school, as well as her journey into the tech world, sharing the challenges she faced and overcame, including “a lot of push back” along the way.  

Addressing the student body, she said: “I have three pieces of advice: never stop learning; find a mentor; and back yourself”.  She acknowledged that women in tech, have and still may encounter resistance, but stressed the importance in believing in ones’ capabilities and contributions. 

“It’s about having confidence in what you offer and your right to be in the room.” 

This year's celebrations held particular significance as we mark 25 years of coeducation at St Andrew’s Cathedral School.