Stephanie Shirley

Dame Vera Stephanie "Steve" Shirley is a British technology pioneer, businesswoman, and philanthropist.

Born in 1933, she arrived in England as a child refugee on the Kindertransport.

Shirley went on to found a groundbreaking software company in 1962, employing primarily women working from home.

Her innovative approach to flexible work and employee ownership was decades ahead of its time.

Shirley later became a prominent philanthropist, focusing particularly on autism research and support.

Her autobiography details her extraordinary life, including her experiences as a refugee, her business success, and her personal challenges, especially raising a son with severe autism.

Shirley's story exemplifies resilience, innovation, and social responsibility.