♀️Bath & Somerset’s Most Inspiring Women 2026 | Becky Somerset

To mark International Women’s Day 2026, we’re celebrating Bath & Somerset’s most inspiring women.

Through our website and social media channels, we asked our readers which women in our community inspire them and created a list of 20. The list will be featured in our Spring magazine and every weekday throughout March we are profiling and championing each of these fantastic women online and via our social feeds.

Today we put the spotlight on Becky Somerset, Director at B&NES 3SG.

Tell us about you and your work:

I was previously a Journalist and Newspaper Editor for 18 years and have been the Director of Bath & North East Somerset Third Sector Group, otherwise known as 3SG, for nearly four. I have always loved to tell the stories of, and advocate for, people doing good in the world.

What are you most proud of?

I think it can be hard to give yourself a pat on the back sometimes. I had a life-changing diagnosis many years ago and decided to run the Bath Half Marathon to prove to myself I could physically do it. I’ve trekked areas of China, India and Peru for charity and I’m currently working on a project for 3SG which will make me hugely proud once it is completed. And of course, I’m proud of this award, too!

How does it feel to be recognised as one of Bath’s Most Inspiring Women?

Amazing. There are so many inspirational women that I have the privilege of working alongside and that I admire greatly. To be recognised in this way means a lot to me.

What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

In a world that can feel very divided, I think it is important to recognise each other, to raise one another up and to help women feel empowered, handing on and building upon the qualities for the women and girls that will follow. There should be equality for everyone and our differences celebrated.

This year’s IWD theme asks us to think about how giving benefits everyone. What’s an example from your work or community life where supporting another woman led to something meaningful in return?

I am fortunate to have been able to recruit some amazing women into roles – to guide, support and encourage them – and that is the most rewarding thing of all, watching them grow and thrive. Perhaps that’s the ultimate act of giving.

What piece of advice would you share with your younger self?

To have more confidence and to back myself fully, as things always work out somehow. I think fear and self-doubt hold too many of us back.

This feature is sponsored by Milsted Langdon accountants. Milsted Langdon are supporting this activity for a fourth consecutive year as they are passionate about supporting women in business and helping local communities thrive through their work with business owners, charities and not-for-profits.