Inspiring the Next Generation: Young Girls Encouraged to Dream Big at International Women's Day Event

Inspiring the Next Generation: Young Girls Encouraged to Dream Big at International Women's Day Event

Reform Lancashire County Councillor and Chair of the Children, Families and Skills Scrutiny Committee, Joanne Ash, was invited to an International Women’s Day event on Monday, 2nd March, where she joined primary school girls from Years 5 and 6 for a day dedicated to expanding horizons and building confidence.

Held at the University of Cumbria’s Lancaster campus, the event encouraged young girls to think big, be bold and believe in their potential by connecting them with positive female role models from a wide range of professions.

Bringing Careers to Life

Throughout the day, students met with female role models to hear about their career journeys, successes and challenges. Using what they learnt, each group created a tabletop display celebrating their role model’s profession. These colourful and creative displays were showcased at the event, demonstrating the pupils’ enthusiasm, teamwork and growing aspirations.

A Message of Courage Confidence

CC Joanne Ash opened the event with an empowering message focused on bravery, joy, and self‑belief.

“Be brave, enjoy every step of your journey, and never be afraid to ask yourself: if not you, then who? You are capable of incredible things, and today is about helping you see that,” said CC Joanne Ask.

Her words set a motivational tone that carried throughout the day.

Positive Role Models, PositiveFutures

Keynote speakers and inspirational women from a variety of sectors shared their stories, showing the girls the breadth of opportunities open to them. Their experiences encouraged students to look beyond stereotypes and imagine futures shaped by ambition and possibility.

Reflecting on the event, CC Ash said:

^{“It was wonderful to see how engaged and enthusiastic the girls were. The energy in the room was fantastic, and the role models really helped open up possibilities for every student.”}

A Day to Remember

The event highlighted the importance of representation and encouragement in shaping young minds. For many of the girls, it offered a first glimpse into the exciting career pathways available to them and a reminder that with bravery and belief in themselves, there is no limit to what they can achieve.