A day to inspire young women to “press for progress” in the struggle for gender equality, saw over 80 schoolgirls meeting 26 successful professionals - whose careers ranged from footballer to fire fighter to A&E doctor.

The day was organised by Hackney Council to mark International Women’s Day at the Young Hackney Forest Road Youth Hub in Dalston.

Dr Ronx, emergency medicine doctor at Homerton Hospital, Spurs Ladies’ footballer Renee Hector and Victoria Archer-Lee from the London Fire Brigade (LFB) were amongst the ladies who volunteered their time to share insights into their careers.

Dr Ronx, whose real name is Ronke Ikharia, told the group: “Regardless of your background, gender, sexuality, wealth, health, with the right attitude, the right people around you and ultimate belief in yourself, whatever you do, you will always be winning.”

Victoria, who was never put off by the fact that only seven pc of London fire fighters are women, added: “Though I am always in the minority, it never stopped me. At the LFB we always work as a team - it doesn’t matter about your gender.

“As long as you are a good communicator and empathetic, our job is about helping people and we always work together to do that.”

Renee spoke about the massive gender pay gap in soccer.

She said: “You play because you love it, you love being part of a team. Obviously I’m not in it for the money.

“Women footballers get paid a lot less than men, but you’ve got to push for your passion and do what you love no matter what.”

Rinesa Neziri, 14, from Stoke Newington School said: “It was really interesting to hear from people with different backgrounds and how they got through their different problems and overcame obstacles in life.”