Helping to change the futures of girls in the Tees Valley

More than 100 schoolgirls from across the Tees Valley will visit Teesside University next month for an event aimed to inspire and enthuse them about their futures.

More than 100 schoolgirls from across the Tees Valley will visit Teesside University next month for an event aimed to inspire and enthuse them about their futures.

Teesside University is once again supporting International Women’s Day (8 March) - a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.

The theme this year is #EachforEqual, a world where we can actively choose to challenge stereotypes, fight bias, broaden perceptions, improve situations and celebrate women's achievements.

On 5 and 6 March, around 120 schoolgirls, aged 13 to 14, have been invited to Teesside University for a series of talks, workshops and performances to help build self-awareness and confidence.

The girls will be able to hear from female business leaders and entrepreneurs with the aim of providing a shared experience that will leave them feeling positive and enthused about their individual and collective potential.

Teesside University is also hosting its first ever International Women’s Day dinner on 5 March, bringing together like-minded people who are passionate about improving the life chances of girls.

The inaugural dinner will be an opportunity for business leaders, entrepreneurs and successful female role models to share ideas, intent and plans for how to positively shape the future of girls in the region.

Guests will hear from keynote speaker Irene Dorner, the former President, CEO and Managing Director of HSBC North America Holdings and HSBC USA.

Irene is proud to be from Teesside and, in 2012, was named the most powerful woman in banking. Previously chair of Virgin Money, she recently took up the post of Chair of Taylor Wimpey.

In addition, the University’s School of Social Sciences, Humanities & Law, is hosting an International Women’s Day Mini Conference on Wednesday 4 March.

Professor Jane Turner OBE DL, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Enterprise and Business Engagement) and Gender Champion at Teesside University, said: 'For too long we have spoken about and been made aware of the deep-rooted inequalities facing young people in our region and it is time for change.

'We are delighted to be incorporating the first International Women’s Day dinner into our annual programme of events. It is a great opportunity to ignite a conversation and debate about what we can do collectively to improve opportunities for young girls in our region.

'There are some fantastic women in this region, doing incredible things and it is important that young girls are given the opportunity to meet positive role models, people who they can look up to and aspire to emulate.

'International Women’s Day is a global day of celebration and we are proud that Teesside University is once again supporting this fantastic event.'

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