Northants-based housing association, Greatwell Homes and creative organisation, Made With Many, teamed up to host a women’s empowerment workshop at Wellingborough African Caribbean Association (WACA) on Saturday 8 February.
More than 20 participants attended including Labour MP for Wellingborough and Rushden, Gen Kitchen, Olympic gold medallist, Anita Neil, local councillor and Chair of North Northamptonshire Council, Lora Lawman and community representatives from the neighbourhood policing team, among others.
The event was held in preparation for International Women’s Day on Saturday 8 March when filming from the workshop will be shared as part of a week-long campaign.
The women engaged in discussions that highlighted Wellingborough’s rich diversity, celebrating the achievements of women and the various roles they play in our vibrant community.
Lorraine Gibson, community involvement officer at Greatwell Homes, said:
“The workshop provided a platform for women to express who we are and the challenges we have overcome. The elders in the group shared their experiences, passing down valuable insights to the younger attendees, which proved to be a powerful intergenerational exercise. It was an uplifting space for women from all backgrounds.”
All participants selected a word that resonated with them, reflecting on how that word could empower other women. A wide array of words emerged, and in the afternoon, each woman was filmed holding her chosen word.
Lorraine added:
“This joint initiative between Greatwell Homes and Made With Many was well-received and created a safe space for women to share their stories openly, something that we don’t often get to do.
“The day was an experience I will always cherish; it was wonderful to meet and connect with women we don’t usually encounter in our daily lives. We hope this workshop will become an annual event.”