Young women from across Wrexham had a chance to shadow women on the corridors of power as part of events for International Women’s Day.
International Women’s Day is a global day celebrating and recognising the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.
The 2018 event marked 107 years of celebrations, with this year also marking 100 years since Parliament passed a law which allowed some women to vote for the first time
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To mark the day, 10 young women had the chance to shadow women in politics, professional roles and public service and giving them an insight into the behind-the-scenes workings of places such as Wrexham Council, Coleg Cambria and the Houses of Parliament.
An event was also held at the Stiwt in Rhosllanerchrugog in which high-ranking women in the worlds of politics and management gave their views on the importance of representation women in professional and leading roles.
The shadowing work was organised by Wrexham Council’s Participation Team and Senedd yr Ifanc, with some Council members also taking part.
After the two days of shadowing work, everyone involved had the opportunity to meet at the Council Chamber of the Guildhall, Wrexham, to discuss their experiences.
Lyndsey Rawlinson, North East Wales Head of Organisation for Natural Resources Wales, was shadowed during the day by Maja Piorunowska, a St Joseph’s School pupil from Wrexham.
Lyndsey said: “I thought the day was fab – it gave me the chance to reflect on my own career, as a woman.
“It was very interesting to get the feelings of a young person and give them a chance to speak to women in senior positions.”
Maja said: “It was good and it was very informal – we could just talk about whatever we wanted.”
“One person’s voice can change the community”
Also taking part in the shadowing was Jessie Hack, who followed Smithfield representative Cllr Adrienne Jeorrett.
Jessie said: “I definitely learnt a lot more about politics and how things are run, and how one person’s voice can change the way the community is run.
“It’s good to see that in your own community, there are women doing their very best to change what can be changed.”
And Abi Caterall and Amy Lloyd had the chance to follow Susan Elan Jones, MP for Clwyd South, during her day at the Houses of Parliament – even getting the chance to watch Prime Minister’s Questions.
Abi said: “Shadowing Susan was a huge opportunity for us both and the experience was amazing. I learnt a lot throughout the day and I’m so grateful Susan took the time out of her day to be with us.
“I think it was important to see a woman in a senior political role because I think inspirational for young women who want to have a similar career. I would definitely take part in something similar again and I would recommend this experience to other young women.”
“Very clear enthusiasm from all those involved”
Cllr Andrew Atkinson, Lead Member for Youth Services and Anti-Poverty, with responsibility for Equalities, said: “We were very keen to mark International Womens Day – the contributions women have made to the history of this area and the work they continue to put in, at all levels, cannot be overstated and deserves recognition.
“I was very pleased to be able to mark the event alongside fellow councillors at the Stiwt in Rhos – there was some very clear enthusiasm from all those involved, and I’d like to thank all those who organised the day’s events and took part in them.”
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