The Beck Theatre, in collaboration with the Women in the Community Network, Hillingdon Women’s Centre, MyHealth Hillingdon and H4All hosted their annual International Women’s Day event on 8 March. The day celebrated the achievements of all women around the world, whilst also highlighting the issues of violence and discrimination which women continue to face. The 2023 theme of #EmbraceEquity placed emphasis on the need to create a more inclusive world through collective activism.

This year’s event was divided into a multiple activities. During the day, the Foyer was lined with stalls from charities and organisations around the borough. On stage were two fashion shows; one from the Austin Sewing Club where their group modelled their handmade pieces, and the other from the Afghan Women’s Support Group, who highlighted that in some countries, women are still denied the basic rights of education and careers.

In addition, MyHealth Hillingdon held a ‘Who Wants To Be A Hillingdonaire’ quiz and talks on the themes of breast cancer and menopause, there was a powerful call-to-action speech from pupils from a Norbury primary school, and the Mayor of Hillingdon, Councillor Becky Haggar, delivered a moving keynote speech on her personal story and lived experiences.

The Beck hosted three breakout sessions consisting of a breast cancer awareness conversation, a creative writing workshop and personal safety sessions, delivered by a qualified self-defence instructor, supported by local police officers who were available to also provide crime prevention advice and support.

Producer Hannah Farley-Hills also hosted workshops and talked about her project: A Play About Sex. This theatre show, documentary and sexual health podcast is being created with women and non-binary communities and aims to have social benefit by raising awareness, increasing knowledge and starting conversations about underrepresented perspectives, opinions and experiences.

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During the evening there was an interactive performance from The Beck Community Choir, an empowering storytelling session on the theme of ‘wise women’ with Marianna Portela, poetry and spoken-word from Brunel University students, and an interview with Dr Hayleigh Bosher, creator of the women in music podcast ‘Whose Song Is It Anyway?’ with special guest singer-songwriter Chess Galea.

Vicky Lechuga, Manager of Hillingdon Women’s Centre, said, “We’re thrilled to have the opportunity to put this event on for another year. At a time when violence against women continues to be a prevalent issue around the world, it’s important for us to come together to celebrate our achievements and advocate for the rights all women deserve. We are grateful to our partner organisations and to the wonderful team at The Beck Theatre who have helped make this day possible.”

Charlotte Young, Creative Learning Officer at the Beck Theatre, said: “I’m so proud that The Beck could once again provide the platform and space for members of our community to collaborate and celebrate on another empowering, educational and emotional International Women’s Day.”