Published on 08 March 2023
Some of the UK’s most inspirational women in education, politics, leadership and enterprise are taking part in a virtual event as part of today’s International Women’s Day (IWD) celebrations.
The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) event, hosted by the University of Sunderland, will feature talks from successful women at the helm of their organisations, sharing their experiences and discussing this year’s theme ‘Embracing Equity’ – and why equity and equality are so important.
On IWD 2023, March 8, the University event will include live talks from the Department for Business and Trade’s Director for Advocacy and World Events, Pauline Crellin, FSB's Policy and Advocacy Chair Tina McKenzie, and Alison Rowe, Chief Executive Officer of NatWest.
Broadcasting live from the David Puttnam Media Centre at the University’s Sunderland campus, before a studio audience as well as a virtual audience, the event will link up with guest speakers online and from the University’s other campuses in Northallerton and London.
International Women’s Day has marked the achievements of women for more than a century. From its first informal observance in 1909, the day has been formally recognised by the United Nations and is celebrated worldwide.
Professor Abigail Moriarty, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Learning and Teaching at the University of Sunderland, hosting the national FSB event, says: “Entrepreneurs make a huge contribution to the UK economy, and the contributions from women entrepreneurs are significant by creating jobs and driving economic growth and by inspirating others.
“We need women and young girls to think about entrepreneurship across all sectors – and celebrating positive female role models from business and leadership.
“Thank you to all of the women across the country who contribute so much to our economy and enrich the lives of those around them, and of course all of those who support them in their journeys.”
She added: “I feel incredibly privileged to host this event, which I hope will inspire all those involved.”
Dr Derek Watson, Associate Professor in Cultural Management, who helped organise the event, explained how the University’s relationship with the Federation of Small Business is growing from strength to strength.
He explains: “As well as supporting FSB events and business support services, we are delighted in having been asked to co-lead this year’s National Women Leaders’ event. Such exposure further bonds our links in supporting business needs and enriches our student learning.
“Bringing together inspirational women in leadership and enterprise from across the UK, our International Women’s Day event is all about celebrating women in business. Listening to their journeys, their achievements and the barriers they have overcome in taking action for equality in the workplace.”
Other activities marking International Women’s Day on campus include a take-over day at the University’s community radio station Spark.