ALMOST 100 people came together at a special event held in Greenock to mark International Women's Day 2023.

The Beacon Arts Centre hosted the Inverclyde Council-run celebration - an evening of inspirational guest speakers and exhibitions to mark the annual global awareness day.

Hosted by local leadership coach and entrepreneur Marion Morrison, guests enjoyed a series of talks from inspiring women who shared their own stories.

Guests heard from police chief superintendent Laura Waddell before listening to Dawn Fyfe of organisation Wise Women

There was an opportunity to find out about initiatives happening in the local area and a series of exhibition stalls from various organisations.

They also were treated to talks from Janice Hendrie and Collette McGeehan of Inverclyde Athletic Club about the importance of women in sport.

Marion says the event served as a reminder of all the 'strong women' living and working locally.

She told the Tele: "It was a huge success and we were so lucky to have keynote speakers from various backgrounds to touch on different topics.

"This was a celebration of beautiful and thriving women all over the community and brought together many amazing people.

"It was an incredible opportunity for women to come together and embrace the day of celebration."

As well as the event, the International Women's Day flag was also flown above the council headquarters at the Municipal Buildings in Greenock.

Councillor Lynne Quinn, who is the council's women’s champion, said: “As a council and a community, Inverclyde has been a big supporter of International Women’s Day for many years.

“It was an inspirational, positive and empowering event and an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women, the challenges we still face, and meet other women from across the area and beyond.

“The event was also an opportunity to discuss and think about this year’s International Women’s Day theme, of embracing equity, and how we can play our part in getting the world talking about why equal opportunities aren't enough."

Marion says she hoped the event served as a reminder to all local women to reflect on the contribution they make to the area at every level.

She added: "The main point for me was we have to celebrate the small wins daily - someone hanging the washing out and taking their children to school is just as successful as someone winning awards.

"Women achieve so much, you just need to look around this area to see success.

"Look at your own street, there will be women there doing amazing things every day who deserve to be celebrated."

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