We Discovered #WomenCan on International Women's Day 2019 at The Women's Organisation

International Women’s Day is a worldwide event that celebrates women’s achievements – from the political to the social – while calling for gender equality.

 It began in the early 1900’s and is now recognised each year on the 8th of March. The day isn’t simply a celebration — it’s a call to action for everyone to continue to push for complete gender equality.

Women have a come a long way since the early 1900’s with many people believing most the battles have already been won for women but is not the case. According to the IWD website, women are still not getting equal pay, there are lower proportions of women to men in government positions, and women’s education is still being withheld across the world.

Battles have been won, but the battles aren't over yet.

To celebrate International Women’s Day here at The Women’s Organisation we held a special panel event with two inspirational women who are breaking the boundaries in business, celebrating the fact that #WomanCan because we believe that there are no limits to what #WomenCan achieve.

Sue Grindrod who is responsible for the strategic development and management of The Royal Albert Docks and is leading its next phase of evolution was first up on our panel

Also joining us was Marnie Millard who joined Nichols PLC in 2012 and was appointed her current role in just over a year of being with the company with a group turnover of over £130m. She was awarded an OBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List for her services to International Trade and Businesses in North West England.

The Women’s Organisation’s CEO Maggie O’Carroll started the morning off with a few words, she asked to audience to “think about what you can do to promote the next generation of women” as the audience was full of potential future business leaders and women already in business. She then went on to reiterate the fact that 100 years on we can’t give up the fight and there are still many battles to be won.

“We haven’t achieved everything we need to, there’s still a gender pay gap and we need to make sure there’s the same opportunities for all.” 

There are still many women who face huge challenges and they need our help.

Next, we welcomed Sue to talk, after working at Tate Liverpool and then volunteering as a member of the board for The Albert Docks she spoke about how she had to be “brave and know her worth.” She told the board she was going to leave then they offered her the job as CEO because of the incredible work she had already done for the docks, then led the team to gain the royal status for The Royal Albert Docks.

When speaking about personal development, Sue said she did a lot of training and developed through her work life experiences. She went on to add that every journey isn’t easy and it's hard work, but you will always find a way round these obstacles if you have the determination.

“Barriers will always be there, but you will always be able to get over them, use this determination and realise your true potential.” 

The inspiring Marnie Millard started by discussing the fact she didn’t go to University, in a world where University is sometimes seen as the only option, she reiterate that it isn’t and with hard work you can get where you want to be.

She spoke about how she did ‘ok’ at school but definitely wasn’t the smartest student but “Brains grow, the harder you make it work the better it becomes.” After taking nearly 4 years off from working when having her children, she spoke about wanting to find a job that excites her and that she could make a real difference in.

“Sometimes at certain points in your career you have to be brave, seize the moment and embrace it.” 

People doubted Marnie when she started her new job, meaning her family had to relocate and hire a nanny because of her long working hours but slowly it payed off and now she has her “dream job.” 

Marnie went on to add that always thinking about what’s next is the way to improve, don’t just settle for what you have now, strive for the best.

“Being out of your comfort zone is when you learn the most.” 

Thank you to our amazing panelists for taking the time out to speak to us and share their stories advice and experiences. They are two examples of extremely inspiring, hardworking and strong business women who really prove that #WomenCan.

Massive thanks to our event partners Natwest for helping make this event happen.

#BalanceForBetter International Women's Day 2019

International Women's Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. This year’s campaign is #BalanceForBetter because if you better the balance, you better the world as balance drives a better working world for all.

Balance is not just a women's issue, it's an economic issue. 

The world needs more women in the boardroom, more women in government and more women in media coverage. Gender balance is essential for economies and communities to thrive.

A message by Erika Rushton to think about on IWD 2019 “To all of you diverse women aiming for, or already in leadership roles - know you are worth every penny you are paid. If you don't get as much as your male counterparts find an employer that values you, even if it's yourself!”

This blog features inspiring women in leadership who have shared advice and lessons they have learnt along the way. We hope this empowers you to push yourself to achieve your goals and add to a better-balanced world.

Rebecca Keegan “Don’t put too much focus on the end goal – be ready to adapt, be in the moment, celebrate career stepping stones and enjoy yourself along the way.”

Lizzi Doyle “You have to get stuck right in. Do the things you aren’t expected to do, make yourself known. Being a hard worker is one of the best reputations you can have.”

Abigail Harrison “Failure is the only option if you plan to succeed. All successful people have failed many, many times. Don’t fear failure, embrace it and use it to learn and grow.”

Alison James “In a busy, competitive and challenging working environment, it’s sometimes easy to forget to give yourself the credit and kindness that you truly deserve. Remember - remind yourself of how far you've come, never be afraid to share your successes and always remember that that you are equally as important as your colleagues. Encourage others as you would wish to be encouraged and supported yourself.”

Lisa Pearson “Get yourself into a place of accepting that staying inside your comfort zone isn’t going to equal a positive change or benefit to your career.”

Ngunan Adamu “Don't change who you are to fit in, disrupt the corporate status quo and be your own cheerleader.”

Claire Young “Have absolute confidence in your ability, the resilience to survive any knock backs and always look at the bigger picture. Don't sweat the small stuff.”

Jo Anderson “I have learnt that every prize has a cost. Being your own business is so rewarding in lots of ways but be prepared to make some sacrifices along the way.”

Dr Diahanne Rhiney “Success in business, particularly when you’re a woman, is often a slow burner. Develop your self-belief, work on your self-esteem and stick with your goals. If you remain true to yourself and your goals are well-researched, time and hard work will bring about success.”

Heather Waters “Believe in yourself, search for the support you need and ask for advice: “you don’t know what you don’t know” - don’t struggle on your own!”

Chelsea Slater “Keep focused on what it is you want to do. As a young female start up owner, many people have tried to give me advice that has slowed me down or veered me on a different path without me even asking for it. Having a business model canvas, values and a mission in place has really helped to keep me and my team focused on what it is we're trying to achieve, which means that we have clear objectives for when we seek mentors for help”

The final quote is from our very own CEO here at The Women’s Organisation, Maggie O’Carroll. Maggie is actively involved in female economic development policy influencing on an international, national and regional basis and is Chair of the UK Women’s Enterprise Policy Group and a member of the Women’s Budget Group.

“Be open to organisational change. This International Women’s Day think about one thing you can change within your workplace to promote gender equality. Have the willingness to be disruptive, innovative and inclusive.”

Let’s all strive together to better the balance.

If you’re thinking about starting a business or want some help for an existing business, contact The Women’s Organisation on 0151 706 8111 or hello@thewo.org.uk to find out how we can support you.

Are female-centric office spaces the key to addressing gender imbalance in business?

With International Women’s Day just around the corner CEO of The Women’s Organisation, Maggie O’Carroll, has spoken out about the need for more dedicated spaces for women in business.

It’s been well reported that women are more than half as likely to take the plunge into starting up a business as men. 

The Unilever Foundry’s global study into start up diversity has shown that only 17% of start-ups are founded by women. While finder.co.uk has found that the typical business owner on Companies House in the UK is 51, British and male.

Liverpool based charity The Women’s Organisation, which is dedicated to the economic development of women, has found that there is a growing need for more office spaces in the business community which buck the trend in this male-dominated landscape.

CEO Maggie O’Carroll is a firm believer in the power of female-centric spaces, like the charity’s international centre for women in business at 54 St James Street, which offer the community and networks critical to improving women’s economic participation.

CEO of The Women's Organisation, Maggie O'Carroll

She explains: “For many women the prospect of taking their young start-up into the physical business world can be exceptionally daunting. This next step in taking on office space requires an incredible level of conviction and assurance - not to mention monetary resources. That’s why spaces like 54 St James Street are essential to creating safe and supportive networks, where women can feel empowered and access further support to succeed in business.”

“Another fundamental barrier many female-led start-ups face as they begin their journey is the fact that they are working from home. The experience of many of our service-users is that this only serves to compound a common issue for women who typically find themselves as primary caregivers. This prevents them from making a clear distinction between home life and working life, often reducing their capacity to focus on their business.”

Since opening its doors in 2011, 54 St James Street has helped to create over 1,000 new businesses and created over 2,000 new jobs in the Liverpool City Region through the work of The Women’s Organisation and the Enterprise Hub programme which is funded by the European Regional Development Fund.

54 St James Street is an international hub for women in business

Councillor Gary Millar, Deputy Mayor of Liverpool & Cabinet Member for Business Economy & Skills, says: “Enabling female participation in the local economy is critical to addressing the gender imbalance we see in business and that’s exactly what facilities like 54 St James Street are doing by providing the support and space needed to succeed in business. To be among a group of likeminded entrepreneurs is important to any business person to feel inspired and supported.

“Without these spaces, we risk leaving behind a pool of un-tapped female potential and talent which would otherwise be a significant contributor to driving the economy on a local and national level.”

Tenant of 54 St James Street and Director of Every Cloud Associates, Kate Morris, says: “As women, I believe that we already have a natural and shared ability to network. We are relation-seeking beings with an emotional empathy like no other. 54 St James Street offers the perfect incubation space for this to take hold and flourish.

“The peer to peer support, working alongside other passionate, female entrepreneurs who are trying to do their ‘thing’ better is a key benefit of this community. It’s hugely empowering for women to see other women lead and achieve, grow and develop. It’s like a ‘rising tide’, we bring each other on.”

Every Cloud Associates office at 54 St James Street

If you would like to find out more about the facilities available for female-led businesses at 54 St James Street and how you can become part of the community, you can visit www.54stjamesstreet.com

Your Official Guide to International Women’s Day 2019 ♀ 💪

Here at The Women’s Organisation one of our favorite days of the year is just around the corner, International Women’s Day!

Friday the 8th of March is the day, make room in your diary.

International Women’s Day is a time to reflect on progress made, to call for change and to celebrate acts of courage and determination by all women who have played an extraordinary role in the history of their countries and communities.

This year’s theme is #BalanceForBetter because if you better the balance, you better the world as balance drives a better working world for all.

The future is exciting, lets aim to build a gender-balanced world where everyone can make a difference. We all have a part to play - all the time, everywhere. From individuals to communities, we are entering a new and exciting time in history where people can expect balance. We need to be noticing its absence and celebrating its presence.

How will you celebrate women's achievements on Friday March 8, while calling for a more gender-balanced world?

If you need some ideas here are some amazing events going on in and around the city which are celebrating International Women’s Day.

Morning Events

Business Club- “Women Can”

10am-12pm, 54 St James Street, Liverpool, L1 0AB

Joining us are two inspirational women who have broken glass ceilings and made their way to the top. Hear their journey and their tips on growing your business and be inspired as we explore the International Women's Day theme for this year #BalanceforBetter.

The first panelist is Chief Executive of Royal Albert Dock Liverpool Sue Grindrod, who is responsible for the strategic development and management of this iconic waterfront destination and is leading its next phase of evolution. The second panelist is Marnie Millard who is Group Chief Executive for Nichols PLC. She joined the company in 2012 and was appointed to her current role in May 2013. Marnie was awarded an OBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List for her services to International Trade and Businesses in North West England.

This event is in partnership with NatWest.

All Day Events

The Female Gaze: Women Depicting Women, dot-art.

10am-6pm, 14 Queen Avenue, Castle Street, Liverpool, L2 4TX

The new exhibition at dot-art showcases the work of three women artists, Liz Jeary, Mia Cathcart and Rebecca Atherton. Each artist depicts women in their work, capturing and exploring identity and the complex representations of women in art through diverse art forms.

This exhibition starts on Friday 8th March and runs until Saturday 4th May. Entry is free and all are welcome.

Evening Events

Petticoat Rebellion? Women and Resistance to Slavery

6-7pm, Central Library, William Brown St, Liverpool L3 8EW

They are celebrating International Women's Day by remembering women's resistance to plantation slavery. If resistance to slavery in general was concealed by slaveholders, the resistance of women was underplayed and trivialised. This lecture puts women's resistance at the heart of the fight for freedom and tells the story of Nanny of the Maroons, Nanny Grig, Harriet Jacobs, Harriet Tubman and others whose often individual acts of resistance have gone unrecorded.

Sisbis presents: International Women's Day

6pm - til late, 24 Kitchen St, Baltic Triangle, Liverpool L1 0AN

Liverpool women have been busy: making art, making music and making noise about things they care about. To celebrate, SisBis presents a social for creative and active women in Liverpool. Expect live music, food and things-to-do run by the many exciting female and queer creative collectives from across the city.

An evening with Inspirational Women

5-8pm, Liverpool Hope University, Creative Campus, Shaw Street , Liverpool, L6 1HL

Celebrate International Women’s Day with a panel of inspirational women. They will be holding a Q&A session with women working in areas such as; Art, Education, Business and Science. The event will also provide a series of short talks showing the lived experiences of the women from this array of areas, highlighting the barriers challenged within their progression.

The panel includes-

Zara Khalique – Founder of Keep It Bright’, a positivity movement and lifestyle brand with customers such as Arianna Grande and Miley Cyrus.

Dr Ella Houston – Lecuruer in Disability and Education, focusing in the area of Feminism and Disability Studies.

Lauren Tucker – Dance artist and founder of Tuck Shop Dance Theatre.

Dr Nicola Jones - BSc (Hons) MSc PhD FHEA CPsychol – Lecturer in Psychology.

✊♀️ ‘Women Are Our Sisters, Not Our Competition’ International Women's Day 2018 at The Women’s Organisation

As another International Women’s Day passes by we take our time to reflect on the day… and we can truly say this one was one of our favourites!


International Women’s Day is a day of coming together to support your fellow women and this is exactly what we did at 54 St James Street! We would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who attended our event and got involved in celebrating International Women’s Day 2018 with us!

It's always a busy time for us at The Women's Organisation and this year was no exception - We were joined by over 80 women to celebrate the day and hear from our 4 Panelists (Jo Anderson, Jayne Smith, Councillor Liz Parsons and Michelle Charters) speaking at our International Women’s Day theme ‘Women are our sisters, not our competition’ which was all about the power and support that can be received from women in our lives and communities.

Our Panelists with CEO of The Women's Organisation Maggie O'Carroll and Event Chair Pamela Ball

Joined by our event chair Pamela Ball, our panel shared their backgrounds, times in which they had faced challenges and how they dealt with them, but also some light-hearted inspiring stories about the numerous women that had supported them and continue to support them in their life before opening the discussion up to our 80 guests.

Many topics were discussed during the 2-hour event ranging from education, getting involved within the local community and information on where to seek help and support.During the event we also asked our guests how they would pledge to #PressforProgress which was IWD2018’s key theme and here are some of the responses…

I, pledge to #PressforProgress by...

We asked our guests how the event changed their perception of other women and in what way and some of the responses included “Get more involved in local politics”, “To actively seek out some young women who I can coach” and “It reminds me that there are women out there willing to help, to challenge systems, to share skills and to ultimately support each other to succeed”

They all sound absolutely brilliant!

We also received some great feedback from the women that attended our event:
“I feel empowered!”
“Fabulous inspiring women making up the panel”
“Inspirational session”
“Look forward to connecting with The Women’s Organisation in the future”
“Brilliant day! Inspiring and empowering”
“Good day – inspiring and empowering”

We had such a great day celebrating International Women's Day and happy that we could be in an environment full of inspirational women! 

We'd like to take this opportunity to thank LCVS Together for Liverpool for Good for funding our event, our panel and also the women who took their time to attend the day.

If you missed out on our International Women's Day Business Club event we have more events for you to catch at 54 St James Street:

Meet The Media - 18th April 2018 
Show Me The Money - 15th May 2018  

An Inspiring International Women’s Day With The W.O! 💪

Wow! Wednesday was officially brilliant! Firstly we’d just like to say a massive thank you to everyone who got involved with all that we were up to on our favourite day of the year…International Women’s Day! Here’s what we got up to…

During the day, amidst all of the excitement that we were witnessing on social media, we had our own fun in the offices and asked the team what they ‘Be Bold For’ honouring IWD17’s campaign hashtag for the year. We had some great responses including ‘I will be bold for empowering and inspiring women’ and ‘I will be bold for others who can’t’ – Check out the rest over on our Instagram!

We also joined the Women’s Equality Party on the steps of St George’s Hall to clutch a ‘big cheque’ made out for £23.7 billion to the ‘North West Economy’ – which represented the amount that could be added to the region’s economy if women were able to work the hours they wanted to, at the same rate of pay as men. Take a look at what Tabitha Morton, the Women’s Equality Party candidate for Liverpool’s Metro Mayor has to say on this issue here.

Elsewhere, some of the team were out representing the The W.O around the city. Our trainer, Alison Blackhurst, headed over to commercial law firm, DWF to speak on 2017's International Women's Day theme, be bold for change! The Women's Organisation were pleased to recently become recipients of a DWF Foundation grant to widen women's participation in enterprising activity in the city region, and this event helped to launch the programme for the coming year which will see a range of industry specific workshops offered to those thinking about starting a business.

Alison hosted a proactive discussion to think about what it means to be bold and just how exactly we can be bold. Following this, DWF made a 'bold wall' where students could make their pledges for the future, pledges included;

"I am going to try and battle my anxiety with a councillor"
"I want to use my social media to spread positivity and challenge inequality"  
"Learn how to drive a car to give me better opportunities"
"I am going to qualify as a solicitor"
"Get a teacher degree"
"Do volunteer work"
"become more confident"

Feedback included "You were so inspiring and the interactive element definitely helped!" and "it was lovely to see the girls engaging and putting up some really personal and admirable goals onto the bold action wall!" - Thank you to DWF for hosting us! 

And in the evening – it was our big event! We were looking forward to welcoming over 50 women to 54 St James Street to celebrate International Women’s Day and hear from a panel of inspiring women. The event was fantastic, the panel (Irene Afful, Helen Lord and Rebecca Jones) shared with us their stories of success and were honest and open about the difficulties that they had faced and how they overcame them. Our host; Pamela Ball was incredible as usual and it a great discussion opened up.

Bernie Cox, Caroline Mitchell from UoL, Pamela Ball and Rebecca Jones

A full room of amazing women! 

Rebecca Jones, Helen Lord and Irene Afful

We had some fantastic feedback too!

‘It’s so amazing to be surrounded by so many inspiring women. You can feel the positivity in the room. Thank you The Women’s Org!’

‘It was my first time at The Women’s Organisation and I’ve got to say the enthusiasm, confidence and vibe in the room was amazing. Great things happen when the right people get together.’

‘What an inspiring evening! Couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate International Women’s Day, than here at The Women’s Org.’

So overall, what a success! We always do have a fantastic time on International Women’s Day, but this year felt particularly special and important! 

We’d like to say a massive thank you to our event sponsors; University of Liverpool Management School, our panel and host and everyone who joined us to celebrate – You’re all fantastic!