Founders Spotlight: A Fireside Chat
Join us for an intimate fireside chat and networking evening with three exceptional founders, Elizabeth Marston (Sotera & Marston Family Vineyard) and Jenny Barnett (Monument Tx & Five Lives), moderated by Xann Schwinn (Biiah, CFFN).
They’ll share honest insights on what it really takes to transition from research to founding, the cultural and daily shifts involved in running a startup, and the support (and challenges) that shaped their journeys in Cambridge and beyond.
This event is designed primarily for founders, as well as potential partners and supporters looking to engage with the ecosystem. This is a mixed gender event—all are welcome! No panels, no pitching—just real conversations.
🎤 Speakers
Elizabeth Marston – Founder of Sotera, an AI-powered insurtech platform providing detailed risk analysis and price-checking for complex policies in Fine Art & Specie and High Net Worth Home Contents. An entrepreneur, archaeologist, museum specialist, and vintner, Liz has worked on projects at the British Museum and in Cairo. Sotera was founded at Accelerate Cambridge, accelerated at Lloyd’s Lab, and is backed by leading industry investors.
Jenny Barnett – CEO of Monument Tx, a neuroscience drug development company, and CSO of digital health company Five Lives. A cognitive neuroscientist by training, Jenny holds an MA in Experimental Psychology from Oxford University and a PhD in schizophrenia epidemiology from the University of Cambridge. Jenny has published 70+ papers, holds six patents, and has authored two pop science books.
Moderator: Xann Schwinn – Founder & CEO of Biiah, a platform revolutionising access to music for health and well-being. A full-stack strategist and seasoned entrepreneur, Xann works at the intersection of startup tech and the arts. She is also the co-founder of CFFN, a grassroots founder-led network supporting female entrepreneurs across Cambridge.
Additional Notes
Drinks: Please buy your drinks at the bar downstairs before heading up!
Nursing & breastfeeding mothers: There is a dedicated space in the upstairs bathroom. Kids are also welcome.
Photography notice: We may take photos during the event for use on our website and social media. Please let us know if you’d prefer not to be photographed.
Looking forward to seeing you there! 🚀