International Womens Day celebrated in Milton Keynes

  • 2017-03-16
Local women gathered together at the Milton Keynes Theatre to celebrate International Women’s Day with a full agenda of guest speakers and activities.

A global event since 1909, International Women’s Day is a celebration of women’s cultural, political, economic and social achievements, and raises issues of unity and equality across all boundaries, seeking to recognise and applaud some of the most inspiring women of all time. It is celebrated annually on 8th March.

The theme for this year’s event was ‘#BeBoldForChange’, and among the day’s events, the life and legacy of Milton Keynes’ philanthropist Margaret Powell was celebrated. The governor of Aylesbury Young Offender’s Institute, Laura Sapwell gave a talk about her job and role working with young offenders, and some students from the Milton Keynes Academy gave a reading. There may also have been promotional items informing visitors of the day’s activities.

Also present were the Women in Enterprise group who announced its chosen charity for the year, The Women’s Fund. Initially set up in 2000, the fund is there to support projects which encourage economic self-sufficiency, artistic and personal growth, emotional well-being and the prevention of violence against women.

President of Women in Enterprise, Sally Fennemore stated:

“Our broader aspiration is to help women across the community, who for whatever reason, from time to time need a helping hand to achieve their goals. We are here to offer that helping hand.”

The day ended with a speech from the High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire, Milly Soames DL, who encouraged everyone to ‘BeBoldForChange’.