“As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, we want to take this opportunity to highlight the importance of encouraging women to participate in local democracy. With local elections approaching in May, this is a crucial time to ensure women’s voices are heard and represented in our communities.

Last year’s International Women’s Day event in Wem was a resounding success, with over 500 attendees, including many local schoolchildren who contributed to the celebrations. Building on this momentum, the 2025 event will be a vibrant celebration of women in Shropshire, featuring stalls, workshops, activities, and inspiring talks from local women who are leading by example and encouraging others to step forward and follow their aspirations. Celebrating International Women’s Day: Supporting Girls and Women in Wem Rural | Wem Rural Parish

Why This Matters for Local Elections

Women bring valuable perspectives, skills, and experiences to local councils, helping to shape inclusive and diverse communities. However, many women hesitate to stand for election due to lack of confidence or awareness of the opportunities available. This International Women’s Day, we urge councils to promote the event and actively encourage women in their communities to consider standing for election and making a difference locally.

Highlights of International Women’s Day 2025 in Shropshire

This year’s event, generously funded by Wem Rotary (who are actively seeking more women members), Monks Estate Agents, Shropshire Council (£1,900), and Freedom Fibre (£1,000), will offer an array of engaging activities, including:

• Workshops on confidence-building, wellbeing, and financial empowerment
• Talks from inspiring local women in business, arts, and leadership
• Interactive sessions like flower arranging, yoga, mindful eating, and vision boards
• A Burlesque Basics session for those looking for a fun and empowering experience
• A drinks reception hosted by Wem Rotary to encourage networking and discussion

Among the many fantastic contributors are Julie Wright (Stained Glass Gifts), Lesley Stabler (Little Owl Glass), Jenny Probin (Jenergy Yoga and Wellbeing), Cara Meehan (Coaching with Cara), Emmie McGeown (Em’s Crafty Creations), Ros Anwyl (Flower Clubs of Mercia and North Wales), Just Credit Union, and Alison Utting (A Shropshire Lass), among others.

How You Can Get Involved

We encourage all parish and town councils to:

• Promote this event within your communities to highlight the importance of women’s contributions.
• Encourage local women to attend and be inspired by the success stories of others.
• Share information about standing for election in May and support women considering candidacy.

This is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the achievements of local women while also inspiring greater involvement in shaping the future of our communities.”