Welcome to this edition of the Oxford Insights Newsletter, where we reflect on recent events and share commentary on legal developments, while looking ahead to ways in which Mishcon de Reya continues to push boundaries, challenge norms, and drive meaningful change.
Last month, we had the privilege of hosting an extraordinary gathering beneath the ethereal Museum of the Moon installation at Harwell. This unique setting provided the perfect stage for a dynamic evening of conversation between leaders in the defence and space sectors, an ecosystem where UK innovation, security, and investment increasingly intersect. Bringing together pioneering companies, forward-thinking investors, and policy influencers, the event underscored both the commercial opportunity and societal responsibility that come with developing technologies of strategic importance.
As we look ahead, we are excited to support the Oxford Female Investment Network Conference on 2 July, which continues a vital conversation around women in investment—as both founders and funders. We are especially proud to welcome Hannah Bernard, co-chair of the Invest in Women Taskforce, as keynote speaker. Her leadership and commitment to fostering inclusive financial ecosystems will undoubtedly galvanise action towards a more balanced and representative investment environment. At Mishcon de Reya, we believe that unlocking underrepresented capital and supporting underrepresented founders is not just an equity issue, it's an innovation imperative.
On 3 July, we will be hosting our inaugural Festival of Curiosity, an evening inspired by Alice in Wonderland, which we hope will be full of conversations and celebrations of that fundamental characteristic that is common to all things creative and innovative.
Curiosity is, of course, not confined to innovation, it also drives our pursuit of justice. In that spirit, we are deeply proud of the work being done by our Mishcon de Reya colleagues supporting the appeal of Ruth Ellis, the last woman to be hanged in the UK, details of which can be found below. Her story has long symbolised the gendered inequalities of the criminal justice system. Our team's work in this landmark appeal reflects our broader commitment to challenging outdated systems and amplifying voices that have been historically silenced.
Thank you for being part of our community of changemakers. Whether in science, investment, law, or beyond, we are privileged to collaborate with you in building a more inclusive and imaginative future.