Maria McDowell is a speaker, community builder and executive operations leader with a passion for developing people and creating inclusive career opportunities. She is the founder of lollipop mentoring, a mentoring community that connects people with experienced mentors to support confidence, career progression and meaningful professional growth. Throughout her career, Maria has led operational transformation across creative agencies while championing diverse talent, leadership development and collaborative cultures. Recognised in the Diversity Power List 2024 and shortlisted for the National Diversity Awards 2026, she is a passionate advocate for mentoring, representation and creating opportunities that enable people and communities to thrive.