Council events ‘Accelerate Action’ this International Women’s Day
Mid Ulster District Council is helping to ‘Accelerate Action’ this International Women’s Day, Saturday 8 March, by holding two events to celebrate the achievements of inspirational women who are making a major impact in the world of business, community and all areas of society.
The Council will hold two events to support this year’s International Women’s Day and its important theme of ‘Accelerate Action’. All money raised will go to Causeway and Mid Ulster Women’s Aid.
The first event takes place on Wednesday 5 March at the Old Rectory, Killyman when Angeline Murphy and Shelley Cowen will take to the stage along with Carol Doey, MC for the night.
Angeline Murphy is a Northern Ireland-based designer, textile artist, marketeer and passionate advocate for sustainability and well-being. A mum of three under 8 and a full-time marketing manager, Angeline’s sewing journey (her passion) began in 2005 with a simple trouser alteration, sparking a creative path that has led to national television appearances on BBC’s Great British Sewing Bee Series 4 and RTE’s Today Show with Maura and Dáithí.
Shelley Cowen is an entrepreneur, keynote speaker, and award-winning advocate for accessibility, inclusion, and innovation. With nearly 30 years of lived experience as a disabled person, she has transformed her challenges into opportunities, becoming a leader in driving change across industries. By bringing a unique and powerful perspective to every stage, delivering talks that are equal parts inspiring and actionable.
The second event will be held in the Ballyscullion Park, Bellaghy on Wednesday 12 March, also with Carol Doey as MC and guest speakers, Emma Heatherington and Vanessa McMinn.
Emma Heatherington is from Donaghmore, Co Tyrone. The International best-selling author of seventeen novels, including the Irish Times Bestsellers This Christmas (UK Number 1 eBook) and Maybe Next Christmas.
Her stories are set in Ireland and they each explore life affirming issues with heart-warming themes. Emma’s distinctive style, full of poignancy and warmth has developed a loyal and growing fan base. She has been hailed as ‘the Queen of Hearts’ and has been compared to the late Maeve Binchy.
Vanessa McMinn is a registered Dietitian, Freelance Dietitian and Sports Nutritionist. She qualified as a Dietitian in 2000. In 2003, she successfully completed her BDA Accredited Sports Dietitian course and started up her own Part-time Freelance Sports Nutrition Consultancy: Victory Nutrition.
A representative from Causeway and Mid Ulster Women’s Aid, will also speak at the events, and highlight the significant challenges facing the charity with growing numbers of women coming forward for help.
Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Councillor Eugene McConnell commented on the upcoming events:
I am thrilled that the Council is once again showing its support for International Women’s Day by holding two remarkable events promoting this year’s theme of ‘Accelerate Action’. These events will feature a lineup of inspirational speakers, including accomplished women from diverse backgrounds who have made a real difference in their fields and communities.
“The events will help ‘accelerate action’ by breaking barriers and fostering equity, with topics and discussion designed to uplift and empower women of all ages. What makes these events even more special is that every penny raised will go to support Causeway and Mid Ulster Women’s Aid, helping to create meaningful change for those in need.
“I encourage everyone to attend, be inspired by these incredible stories, and contribute to this important cause. Together, we can celebrate the strength, resilience, and achievements of women everywhere."
Tickets for these two highly anticipated events, are priced at £7.50 each, and can be booked online. Both events commence at 6.45pm with a drinks reception, with speakers taking to the stage at 7.15pm and ending the evening with a light supper. All attendees will also receive a free goodie bag.
For those who are unable to attend the events in Mid Ulster, you can still play your part by visiting the International Women's Day website at www.internationalwomensday.com where you will find details of how you can get involved.