By Chantelle Tindall
In Manchester, the month of March was very busy for some organisations that marked this year's International Women's Day (IWD) in many different ways. This year’s event was themed #balanceforbetter.
One of the many aims is to bridge the gender equality gap right from the boardrooms to the classrooms and every women's organisation drummed that message in.
Each year, IWD gives the opportunity to bring to the fore, the plight of women and girls living in other parts of the world where they are discriminated against because of their gender. Some are deprived of education through the erroneous belief that girls are second class citizens in comparison to boys. Some are subjected to child marriages, which deprives them of the joys of childhood. The term "a woman's place is in the kitchen" comes to mind. This should have no place in this day and age - which is what IWD is fighting very hard to eradicate.
IWD helps us appreciate the freedom and opportunities we have in our societies especially in the Western world. It also finds solutions through which these women and girls with less chances and opportunities, can be supported to live more meaningful lives.
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In Manchester, the theme #balanceforbetter took on different meanings. There was the coffee morning seminar hosted by the IWD/MBME Network. As usual it was packed with different activities, talks by special guests, dance and competitions - a day that richly celebrated strong BME International women. The Nigerian table celebrated Aunty Julie Kasumu for all her relentless services to Chrysalis, working with families and for child protection too. The table also won the “best dressed group” accolade.
Another event was BEYOUTIFUL hosted by Adeyinka Adewumi - an event with the aim of encouraging women to rise up, stay focused and be unstoppable. It was also an afternoon of speeches by special guests with lots of fun and laughter.
IWD Manchester also saw another event for women titled: 'Princess To Queen' hosted by Kemi Olude Obisesan with United States based guest speaker - Dr. Shaletta Borders. This was a programme spirit-filled with the Word of God celebrating #balanceforbetter. There was audience participation, music and a lot to be thankful for as everyone present was encouraged to share their experiences good or bad in order to encourage and bless others.
In Stockport, where IWD was hosted by Nexus Community Support, it was an afternoon with guest speakers and authors, all sharing nuggets of wisdom and support. They also had a dance group called Urban Gypies with their colourful attires, great African music and a deep knowledge of African dance steps which entertained the crowd. The event also paved way for small business owners to display and sell their products - a very encouraging move to support local women entrepreneurs.
Manchester Maya Project also hosted an IWD event organised in partnership with eight different organisations funded by the Big Lottery Women and Girls Fund. Their aim is to celebrate every woman from the different ethnic groups they represent. These organisations provide holistic support for Black, Asian, Minority and Ethnic and Refugee women (BAMER). The event had children in attendance which added more excitement to the day, and Wonderfully Made Woman Dance Group entertained. There was a card making session, with lots of food and activities to entertain the crowd.
In Rochdale, it was a classy and glamorous affair with an event celebrating womanhood tagged "Classic Onyx." It was a befitting end to the week-long events that took place all over the city. Hosted by Nikky Iginla and Sandra Lawal at the Mercure Manchester Norton Grange Hotel, Rochdale; every woman felt like a celebrity on the night as they were all beautifully dressed up for the dinner. There were guest speakers, and interesting engagements. Everyone felt motivated and looking to do their best for the younger generation of girls coming up.
Of note at each of these events were the key points from the different guest speakers: They gave each woman the encouragement to grow confidence in themselves and believe that no matter how small, each step is relevant.
Manchester is just one city and the message #balanceforbetter was well and truly spelt out - so women will strive to achieve that equality and balance missing where it matters most, so as to pave the way for the next generation.
The spread and impact of the fire that burnt within every woman across the world where the IWD messages were relayed, is best imagined. The men now have a run for their money - #balanceforbetter is here to stay.