November Luncheon | Patrick Halford

Back at the familiar Lilla Roberts, we are delighted to welcome Patrick Halford as the speaker at our November Luncheon!

Women Building Businesses Across Borders
Amplifying ambition through global expertise and AI

What becomes possible when women’s ambition and experience meet international networks, practical expertise and affordable, abundant AI tools?

For Patrick Halford, this question begins with his mother, Valerie—an entrepreneur whose work took her across the international polo world – from Argentina to Dubai to Australia to Palm Springs and back to Windsor – and whose contribution is remembered through the Valerie Halford Memorial Trophy at Guards Polo Club. What could a woman with her ambition, resourcefulness and international connections have built with today’s AI tools?

Drawing on her example and more than thirty years working for and alongside female business leaders, Patrick brings a personal perspective to women building businesses across countries and cultures. He connects those experiences with his mentoring of international students from Africa, India and elsewhere, and his current work as co-founder of 8weave.

Through accessible demonstrations, Patrick will show how global expertise and AI can help entrepreneurs understand unfamiliar markets, find potential collaborators and test ideas before committing significant money. Examples will explore how women can develop businesses, connect across borders and draw on expertise that previously seemed beyond their reach.

The talk explores how the cost of research, translation and early business planning can fall—and why human judgment, relationships and local knowledge remain essential.

No technical background is needed. Expect personal stories, practical examples and an invitation to consider how your own experience could help a business cross its next border.

Please be ready and seated before the talk, which starts at 11:30, Meeting Room Selim.

• Mr. Halford’s talk, and Q&A: 11:30-12:10;

• three-course meal: 12:15-14:00

Invite a friend to the luncheon; RSVP on their behalf below.

Cancellations must be sent to Irina@iwch.fi by Thursday 3.10.2026; late cancellations will be charged.