International Women's Day

Monday 10 March 2008, 10am

The annual celebration of International Women's Day will take place on Monday 10 March 2008 at the Barking Learning Centre and Barking Town Hall. Registration begins at 9.15am, with the main programme commencing at 10am.

International Women's Day, 8 March, is a global day of celebration - recognising the achievement and contribution of women to society - and has been celebrated worldwide since 1910. By holding an International Women's Day event annually, the Council aims to bring women together to promote empowerment and to share ideas.

The Theme for 2008 is 'Shaping Progress', and takes us on a journey showing both how far women have come, while also looking to the future.

In Barking and Dagenham over the last 3 years, the event has been well attended and well supported by local communities.

Each year, attendance has increased and we have been fortunate enough to attract a wide range of speakers on issues ranging from personal development to recognising and responding to domestic violence, while workshops have covered issues such as personal safety and health and wellbeing.

This year, we will also be welcoming members of the Dagenham and Redbridge Ladies' Football Club, who will be receiving an award, following their consistent success in the Essex County Women's Cup over the past 4 years.

There will be a keynote speech by Doctor Roxane Agnew-Davies, mental health adviser for the Greater London Domestic Violence Project and senior researcher in domestic violence at the Institute of Primary Care and Public Health, London South Bank University.

Artist Arlene Wandera, who grew up in Nairobi and now lives in London, will also address the audience, while Councillor Evelyn Carpenter will give the closing address.

Timetable of events

9.15am: Registration and refreshments
9.55am: Welcome, introduction and opening address
10.15am: Keynote speaker - Doctor Roxane Agnew-Davies
10.45am: Speaker - Arlene Wandera
11.15am: Women in Partnership launch - Council for Voluntary Services
11.45am: Presentation of award to Dagenham and Redbridge Ladies Football Club
12.00pm: Exhibition tour of Barking Learning Centre
12.30pm: Lunch
1.15pm: First workshop session/treatment
2.15pm: Second workshop session/treatment
3.15pm: Refreshments
3.30pm: Closing address - Councillor Evelyn Carpenter

The programme also includes a series of workshops. Lunch and refreshments will be provided, and complimentary treatments are on offer.

Attendance is free, however registration is essential.

For further information, to confirm your attendance, or to notify us of any specific requirements you may have, please contact Charlotte Ajayi-Majebi, Equalities and Diversity Officer on 020 8227 2216 or email charlotte.ajayi-majebi@lbbd.gov.uk.

Crèche facilities will be available on request. Please notify Charlotte Ajayi-Majebi if you require a space.

International Women's Day website|