TechUP Click Start Reunion 2025: A Celebration of Connection, Creativity, and Achievement
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With TechUP thriving in its sixth year and the graduation of the most recent Click Start cohort, a celebration felt not just fitting but essential. More than a celebration, it became the perfect moment for a long-awaited reunion… And that’s exactly what we had!
Our Click Start Reunion on the 13th of September brought together graduates from different cohorts, tutors, volunteers; creating a space buzzing with energy, laughter and self-reflection. Stories of challenges overcome and opportunities discovered uplifted the energy even more and most importantly reminded us of TechUP’s main goal: to unlock opportunities and demonstrate that no starting point can hold back the future o those determined to succeed in tech.
What made the day exceptionally powerful was the mix of looking back and looking forward. Alumnae shared the how their journeys unfolded and the aspirations now driving them forward. Alumnae shared how their journeys unfolded since graduation and how their future aspirations were being shaped. Every conversation carried a sense of belonging and mutual support, making it clear that TechUP’s greatest strength lies in its extraordinary community!
Kicking Off The Event
Professor Sue Black, Professor Alexandra Cristea and Johanna Waite jointly opened the Reunion event with a heartfelt introduction. Needless to say the air was thick with excitement as many familiar and many more new faces from all across the North England came together in the Durham Radisson Blu Hotel.
An Unforgettable Speed Networking Session by Vanessa Vallely
For anyone who hasn’t had the chance to hear Vanessa Vallely speak before, one thing that can be said about her is that she knows how to command a room.
With an exceptionally inspiring story from her own life, she started her speech by introducing We Are Tech Women, a platform that has supported thousands of women with resources, events and career opportunities, of which she is the CEO and founder of. Then came the second highlight of her speech -and one of the most memorable icebreakers imaginable-: speed networking.
Within seconds, everyone in the room was on their feet, meeting alumnae from different cohorts, leaving any traces of inhibition behind as they followed Vanessa’s lively directions. She encouraged participants to avoid connecting with those who seemed similar in appearance, manner, or even energy.
The goal was clear: step outside your comfort zone and build connections within minutes. A hall filled with chatter and laughter, only moments after the exercise began, was proof that the power of connection lies in daring to move beyond the familiar.
Game On: Capture the Flag with Dr. Paula Beer
The reunion’s second event transported everyone into the fast-paced world of cybersecurity, where the notorious hacker Dark Darwin threatened to breach TechUPWomen Enterprises. Under the guidance of Dr. Paula Beer, teams quickly stepped up to the challenge, solving puzzles and cracking clues to uncover hidden flags.
Entirely unplugged, the game relied on sharp minds, quick collaboration, and a touch of mischief. In no time, the room was filled with whispered strategies and determined teamwork as players put their ethical hacking hats on to save the day.
Alumnae Spotlight: “Where Are We Now?”
The spotlight then turned to the alumnae themselves in short “Where Are We Now?” talks hosted by Gareth Moore from Catch22. These mini presentations offered inspiring glimpses into the careers and projects they are pursuing today, and how TechUP opened doors or gave them the confidence to take bold steps. Some spoke about moving into entirely new industries, others about promotions or opportunities they never imagined possible a few years ago.
As each story unfolded, it became clear that this was more than just an update; it was a moment of reflection for everyone in the room. Once again, the impact of all the hard work was clear – both the determination of the learners who invested so much of themselves, and the dedication of the mentors and team who guided them along the way.
These were the real results: people thriving, growing, and shaping their futures. It was a true celebration of progress, showing that while each alumna’s path looks different, they are all connected by the same spirit of ambition and possibility.
Around the World in One Lunch
The international buffet was a celebration in itself, offering Greek classics, fragrant Indian dishes, and vibrant African flavours. Soon, the only challenge was balancing conversations with balancing plates — and maybe sneaking back for seconds.
Conversations flowed easily over samosas and chicken souvlaki, proving once again that nothing brings people together faster than good food (except maybe free dessert).
Learning Through Play by Prof Nic Whitton
Then came the Learn Through Play session with Nic Whitton, Professor of Digital Learning and Play at Northumbria University. Known for her pioneering research on playful learning in adulthood, Nic brought her expertise to life by showing how games and creativity can transform the way we think, learn, and connect.
Who knew that a lump of play dough could be such a powerful teaching tool? In Nic’s hands, it wasn’t just about moulding shapes, it was about moulding ideas, showing how something simple and playful can unlock creativity, collaboration, and deeper learning.
Did Someone Say Ceilidh?
The grand finale was an hour of live ceilidh dancing with The Hedgehog’s Skin, where the only rule was to keep moving and keep smiling. Some steps were graceful, others gloriously clumsy, but all were met with cheers and laughter.
It was a joyful reminder that the best memories are made when everyone joins in.
Coming Towards the End
As the music faded and the last steps were danced, one thing was clear: the spirit of TechUP is alive in every learner, mentor, and alumna. It’s a community where ambition meets support, creativity meets collaboration, and every achievement, big or small, is celebrated and shared.