King's College London

Hosted by the Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer on Tuesday 11 March, the reception included Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and Chancellor Rachel Reeves. Guests included Olympic athlete Dame Kelly Holmes and actor Anna Maxwell Martin, alongside faith leaders, musicians, lawyers and others.

The invitation from the Prime Minister was in recognition of her achievements as a first in her field. Kathy Fan was the first female Professor in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in the United Kingdom.

Professor Fan shares her experience: "I had the honour and privilege of receiving an invitation from the Prime Minister to a reception at 10 Downing Street to celebrate International Women's Day on 11th March 2025."

"I was invited as the first dually qualified (medical and dental) female oral & maxillofacial surgeon to be appointed as professor and it was such a privilege to be able to continue to fly the flag for my specialty including being the President of British Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, my work in the NHS and my university."

"I was able to meet many wonderful, inspiring women who were leaders and firsts in their field. It was important to be able to talk with Sir Keir Starmer to highlight my continued belief of the importance of representing women in surgery and our specialty."

"I am proud of my Chinese heritage and hope I may inspire all women including those of diverse ethnic backgrounds to believe in their potential and pursue their goals."

Said Professor Michael Escudier, Executive Dean at the Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences at King's:

"We extend our congratulations to Professor Fan for her well-deserved recognition as an inspirational leader by the Prime Minister on International Women’s Day. Having known her for over 30 years, her leadership and dedication continue to inspire us all."