International Women’s Day - 8 March

On International Women’s Day we are celebrating women working in the charitable sector across Kent

On 8 March the world celebrates the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. Kent Community Foundation is celebrating the thousands of women who work in the charitable sector across the county and has chosen six inspirational Chief Executives to ask what International Women’s Day means to them.

Bali Rogers is works for Safer Communities Alliance, where like-minded small charities, communities, and volunteers help children and young people from disadvantaged and vulnerable backgrounds.

“We  are to be proud of who we are, as women, so many have come from such adversity that need encouragement, affirmation, nurture and inspiration, and we should use this day to do this more. I am proud of my successes because of others believing in me and allowing me chances to take risks, whilst also supporting me to speak out.” 

Sue Clarke MBE is the CEO of Pegasus, which enables children with disabilities to take part in a multitude of activities during the summer break.

“Being recognised as an inspirational woman is completely overwhelming. I only do what I feel mothers should do, try to get the best on offer for your child. We all deserve the same opportunities. If that makes me inspirational then there are a lot of us about.” 

Tracy Sickel works for Imago Dei Prisons Ministry working with women involved in the criminal justice system both in prison and in the community.

“It’s an opportunity to be reminded that there are always those remarkable women that have gone before, those that have inspired, those that have succeeded. It’s an opportunity to together, encourage and celebrate the passion and inspiration that keeps the world moving!”

Rupa Sen is the Executive Manager, of Medway Diversity Forum which promotes social inclusion and integration into society.

“To give a voice to women who are not heard, listened to or valued. To celebrate achievements of women globally in all walks of life. Champion empowerment of women by example.”

Janice McGuinness works with the arts charity People United, based in Canterbury.

“It reminds me to be thankful for the women in my life. My mother and mother-in-law particularly - extraordinary women, both gone, who gave me love, laughter and strength; my female friends; my colleagues; and my never forgotten old drama teacher, who taught a shy girl how to be confident.”

Fernanda Correia-Selfick works for Treat Me Right CIC based in Folkestone who are dedicated to preventing domestic abuse through preventative training, support, coaching and mentoring.

“Empowerment and celebration of womanhood! An opportunity to honour and celebrate the women in our communities and around the world, and honour those who lost their freedom and their lives fighting for a more equal world.”

Josephine McCartney Chief Executive of Kent Community Foundation said, “Kent has an abundance of inspirational women working in as well as leading the charitable sector across the county and we are delighted to celebrate the work of each and every one of them on International Women’s Day.”

Check out our LinkedIn to hear from even more amazing female charity leaders in Kent.