Shining light on International Women’s Day

Devonport City Council Tasmania

Devonport women will have the chance to shine through a week-long program to celebrate this year’s International Women’s Day.

From next Wednesday, 3 March, Devonport will host 10 events ranging from inspiring forums and massage pampering sessions, to belly dance classes, a Long Table Garden Tea and a panel presentation titled “I am woman … hear me now”.

Two of the key events for the week include the Choose to Challenge Speakers Forum on Thursday, 4 March and the Diamonds of Devonport cocktail party on Thursday, 11 March.

Devonport Mayor Annette Rockliff said the annual celebration was a highlight for many as it provided an important community platform for women to be honoured for their unique journeys and contribution to the Devonport community.

“International Women’s Day is such an important annual milestone for our city to celebrate and Devonport City Council is proud to honour women of all ages for the vital roles they play in their communities and their families,” Cr Rockliff said.

“We are incredibly lucky to have strong and inspirational women sharing their journeys in this year’s program, and providing us with pearls of wisdom from their diverse backgrounds and experiences.”

Choose to Challenge Speakers Forum MC and well-known Devonport identity Minka Woolley, said attendees were in for an inspirational evening from the powerful foursome in Sylvia Sayers (7AD and SeaFM General Manager and Diamonds of Devonport Ambassador), Jacqui Lambie (Senator, Jackie Lambie Network), Caitlin Radford (farmer, 2020 Apprentice of the Year) and Robyn Sutcliffe (social worker, Department of Education consultant).

Minka said every woman has a different story to tell and international weeks like these encourage women to share their journeys and positively impact someone else’s life.

“It’s really important in this current world climate to recognise that women have a voice, and this concept has really gained momentum globally,” Minka said.

“Devonport came on board early in recognising women in the community and our Mayor, Annette, has done a fantastic job in creating Diamonds of Devonport which has honoured a lot of local women.

“Women don’t always search for the recognition they deserve, but it’s important to acknowledge what you’ve done, that we like what you’re doing and please keep doing it.”

The Choose to Challenge Speakers Forum will be held on Thursday, 4 March from 6-7.30pm at the paranaple convention centre. To register for the free event via Eventbrite click here.

International Women’s Week will wrap up with the annual Diamonds of Devonport event on Thursday, 11 March from 6-9pm at the paranaple convention centre, level 2. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased from www.devonporttickets.com.au and includes canapes, tea, coffee and entertainment.

To view the International Women’s Week 2021 Devonport program calendar of events click here.

Photo: Devonport Mayor Annette Rockliff and well-known Devonport identity Minka Woolley, are looking forward to this year’s International Women’s Day where Minka will MC the Choose to Challenge Speakers Forum on Thursday, 4 March.

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