International Women's Day: Leeds call to support gender '˜parity'

Judith Blake, the city council’s first female leader, will host the Celebrating Women event at the town hall alongside chief executive Tom Riordan tomorrow. (March 8)

She said: “Leeds would not be as strong and successful as it already is if it wasn’t for the many women who lead and contribute massively to businesses and organisations across the city.

“This event is not only about celebrating achievement, it is also about encouraging women and girls from all walks of life to realise their own potential.

“Only that way will they be able to have their say in shaping the city from now and into the future and making Leeds a truly equal place to live and work.”

Heather Nelson, chief executive of the Leeds Black Health Initiative, will compere the event, which has been branded ‘Pledge for Parity’, and guests will hear from a range of speakers including Heather Jackson.

Ms Jackson is the founder of Joseph’s Well-based An Inspirational Journey, an organisation which aims to promote gender equality in the corporate world.

Yorkshire Evening Post editor Nicola Furbisher will chair a discussion on helping women and girls achieve their ambition.

The council’s deputy leader, Coun Lucinda Yeadon, whose Kirkstall ward was heavily affected by the Boxing Day floods, will speak about the women who played a big part in helping the area recover.

Kevin Sinfield and Bob Bowman, from the Leeds Rugby Foundation, will join Tom Riordan to talk about the White Ribbon Campaign to tackle domestic violence.

Sharon Watson, of Phoenix Dance, will speak about equality in the arts.