The ongoing Power of Women campaign held a successful event attended by more than 50 businesswomen as it expanded its reach into Darlington and Newton Aycliffe.
Two local businesswomen, Marcia Atkinson, of Aycliffe-based BTS Facades and Fabrications, and Nicky Jolley, of Darlington HR agency HR2day, helped to organise the ‘POWwow’ networking event at Rockliffe Hall in Hurworth-on-Tees, near Darlington.
See a gallery of pictures from the event below
Designed specifically for businesswomen, POW’s networking events gather like-minded women to connect, learn and grow together, and have already proved successful in the Tees Valley region.
At the Ward Hadaway-sponsored event, there were updates on local news and business developments from Darlington MP Peter Gibson.
Reshma Begum, representing the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), delved into essential strategies and resources vital for business success in today’s competitive landscape.
And attendees discovered the transformative power of mindset with Ruth Smith, dubbed a ‘feel amazing therapist’.
BTS finance director Marcia Atkinson said: “We were so elated to see so many business ladies attend our first Darlington-County Durham POW event.
“We received great feedback on the day, the inspirational speakers were amazing and I’m so proud to be a part of spreading the word of POW.”
HR2day founder Nicky Jolley said: “It was a fantastic event with an amazing turn out of like-minded people.
“We had more than 50 registered on the day, and the speakers were brilliant, so overall it was a fantastic success.
“Many women experience barriers throughout their careers, particularly those working in male-dominated environments.
“The POW campaign inspires resistance and encourages young women to thrive and realise their full potential, paving the way to successful careers for future female generations – and I am all for that!”.
PoW campaign manager Sophie McKenna said: “We are thrilled to be extending our reach into Darlington and County Durham, connecting with more inspiring women and businesses.
“Thanks to Ward Hadaway for sponsoring this event and to Nicky Jolley and Marcia Atkinson for their continued support.
“Together we are raising awareness of our campaign and making a lasting impact on the lives of young people across the region.”
Hollie Ball, of event sponsor Ward Hadaway, added: “Ward Hadaway is delighted to work with the POW on this event which brings the women of Teesside together for a common purpose.
“It was International Women’s Day this month and we have seen first-hand the amazing support POW provides to business women and young people in this region.
“Ward Hadaway is proud to be able to contribute to this event and to help POW to continue to grow and support more women in the region.”
The POW campaign was launched three years ago and was inspired by the late professor Jane Turner OBE.
The aim of the campaign is to lift and shift the aspirations and ambitions of young people – girls and boys, women and men – in the region.
POW currently has 52 ambassadors and has so far engaged with 2,000 schoolchildren.
Find out more at powerofwomen.org.uk
