Inaugural International Women's Day Celebrations with IoD Wales

Sponsored by Bluestone National Park Resort, the event was marked by an overarching theme of empowering female entrepreneurship in West Wales. IoD branch chair Nicola John, hosting her first event for the IoD, emphasised the significance of coming together, supporting each other, and exchanging ideas on this celebratory day.

Guests gathered under the original 210-year-old rafters of the Mill, some of the only remaining examples of king trusses in the UK, to hear from inspiring speakers Bernie Davies, Lee Ann Smith, and Mel Evans. These speakers shared their personal journeys to business success, highlighting their childhood desires to work for themselves and their unwavering work ethic.

Mel Evans, founder of Voice of the Customer, emphasised how her upbringing on a farm instilled in her a strong work ethic from a young age. Lee Ann Smith recounted her journey from South Africa to West Wales, where she established Printed Chocolates in 2015, building her business from the ground up. Bernie Davies, a global speaker and diversity champion, reflected on her childhood experiences and stressed the importance of excelling to be noticed and valued.

Reflecting on the significance of International Women’s Day, Nicola echoed the sentiment of unity and support among women, emphasising the need for purpose over self-promotion. The event provided a platform for women to leave a lasting impact, encouraging attendees to consider their “you print” – the legacy they leave behind.

The afternoon concluded with a panel discussion featuring Rebecca Rigby, director of operations at Bluestone “It was a privilege for Bluestone to sponsor the International Women’s Day event at Black Pool Mill and showcase our historic and picturesque mill. With an emphasis on diversity and inclusion it was inspiring to hear from three brilliant speakers on the day, each with their own very different story.  I was touched by the warmth and honesty of Bernie Davies, Mel Evans and Lee Ann Smith.”

“Bluestone employs more than 900 people and the diversity of our employees is one of the reasons for our success. With around 60% of our workforce being female, we recognise the importance of offering a broad range of career opportunities that fit a wide range of lifestyles. We also provide training and development for career progressions in all our departments, or where employees might want a change in their employment direction. I genuinely believe that by supporting each other we can all go on to achieve our full potential.”

The historic and picturesque venue, available for corporate events, breakfast, lunch, and dinner, served as an ideal setting for celebrating female entrepreneurship and fostering meaningful connections within the business community.

The event marks the first of what will be an annual event at Bluestone National Park Resort.