On Friday 24 April, we were delighted to hold our postponed International Women’s Day celebration, rescheduled to avoid coinciding with Ramadan. It was a joyful and inspiring day filled with creativity, connection, and celebration.
The event began with a warm welcome and mocktails, before women joined a creative art session led by Equal Arts artist Kath. Participants designed their own stencils and contributed prints to a shared banner, creating a beautiful collaborative artwork.
A highlight of the day was our Women Who Inspire Us Community Wall, where participants reflected on women who inspire them, the strengths women in our community bring, and something they are proud of. Themes that emerged included compassion, resilience, leadership, creativity, advocacy, and the power of building strong, connected communities. Women shared how they inspire others through supporting one another, leading by example, creating welcoming spaces, sharing wisdom, uplifting younger generations, and showing strength through kindness.
We also took time to celebrate a very special milestone for our Finance and Operations Manager, Christine Rogan, recognising 25 years of dedicated service at Riverside, following an additional four years as a volunteer. Christine was warmly thanked for her incredible contribution over the years.
Guests enjoyed a delicious buffet lunch provided by Jasmine’s Canapés before heading out for a wellbeing walk to Hodgkin Park. Families made the most of the sunshine, with children and parents enjoying the swings, slides and seesaws together.
We ended the day back at Riverside with music and dancing to songs chosen by the women, which was a fitting close to a day centred on joy, empowerment and community.
A huge thank you to everyone who joined us and contributed to making the event such a success. We had a wonderful day celebrating the strength, achievements, and inspiration of women in our community.