We were delighted to bring our week-long celebration of International Women’s Day to The Students’ Union between 9-13 March, for the second year in a row.
We were delighted to bring our week-long celebration of International Women’s Day to The Students’ Union between 9-13 March, for the second year in a row. This year’s global theme for the week was ‘Each for Equal’, which aimed to encourage everyone to challenge stereotypes, fight bias, broaden perceptions, improve situations and celebrate women’s achievements.
To celebrate this year’s theme, we worked with our students to create a range of inclusive and diverse events, celebrating all self-defining women and especially the incredible women at UWE Bristol. Events were free to attend and we are delighted to share some highlights with you all!
Barriers to Participation for Females in Sport Panel Discussion
This event discussed barriers to participation in sport and physical activity for women, and how we can overcome these hurdles (sport-related pun absolutely intended).
The panel was made up of some of UK’s leading sportswomen and writers including; GB Paralympian Badminton player, Sally McGinn; England Netball player, Summer Artman; Writer and Facilitator for ‘Lead and Change’, Laura Ballard; and BBC Cardiff Journalist and Reporter, Liz Clements.
This intimate event had a casual atmosphere and in turn, a really engaged audience, who had the opportunity to ask and discuss questions in depth.
Female Researchers of UWE Bristol Showcase
The Female Researchers Showcase gave us the opportunity to learn about some of the incredible women who work at the university and aimed to empowered students to look into careers within the academic sector. Each researcher sent us a bio, which we used to create a poster for the showcase. The showcase was displayed at both Frenchay and Glenside and gave individuals the chance to share their experience and inspire others.
Body Confidence Photography Sessions
A new event for this year, sessions were a chance to empower women to feel more confident in their bodies, to celebrate the diverse range of female beauty, and to also combat pressures that can come from the media and social media.
Photographer Ellie and her assistant Sam were fantastic in helping students feel comfortable during their session, which led to all attendees being engaged in the event.
Vulva cake decorating
This was a real hit last year and we were excited to bring it back. The event was held across all campus sites and was a chance to meet new people, get creative, and enjoy some cake. The activity had some really positive feedback with individuals saying that it took the taboo away from vulvas and allowed women who may have not met to come together.
We would like to thank everyone who got involved with this year’s International Women’s Week, we were delighted to see so many people getting involved with the events and hope to bring this campaign back in 2021.
If this is something you would like to get involved with, please email us: SUCommunity@uwe.ac.uk