Local people are invited to mark International Women’s Day by attending a free event themed around ‘women in sport’ at Chesterfield’s football Club.
The Chesterfield Equality and Diversity Forum and Chesterfield FC Community Trust are hosting an event including a series of inspirational speakers to mark the occasion on Monday 9 March from 9.30am to 1pm at SMH Group Stadium, home to Chesterfield Football Club.
Each of those presenting during the event are ‘breaking barriers’ in sport and inspiring the next generation.
Speakers at the event include the Head of Community at Chesterfield FC Community Trust who uses football to build inclusive spaces where everyone can thrive and an assistant referee who made history as part of the first all-female team at Soccer Aid and officiated the 2023 Women’s FA Cup Final at Wembley.
A former women’s England international footballer with a career spanning Everton and Doncaster Belles, a representative from women’s rugby who co-founded Ashbourne Women and is Head of Girls Rugby for Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire and Derbyshire Rugby Football Union and an avid footballer and former engineer, who transitioned into the sports sector to drive social change complete the line-up of speakers.
Councillor Judy Staton, cabinet member for governance said: “International Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate leadership, strength and the contributions women continue to make, in this case to sport, around the country, as well as in our local communities.
“I encourage people to come along to hear about how our speakers have shaped women’s sport, how they have pushed for change and helped to inspire others. It is important to reflect on challenges in this area and continue to strive for both equality and opportunities in all areas of work.”
During the event, attendees can see a moving collection created by women in expressive art sessions run by WORTH (Women On the Road to Healing). These chairs serve as powerful vessels for stories of trauma and resilience, breaking the silence surrounding abuse.
After the speakers conclude, those attending will be offered a guided tour of the stadium’s premier facilities.
This event is open to all and free of charge, but places are limited. Book your place or call the Chesterfield Borough Council’s Policy team on 01246 936793.
