To celebrate and raise awareness of International Women’s Day, Barnsley College’s Enterprise department organised a day of talks with inspirational female speakers.
Nat Jackson, Founder of Totally Runable and Director at Barnsley Women’s Football Club, was the first speaker of the day. Nat spoke to over 100 students about the importance of confidence in physical ability and having female role models in life.
Nat also discussed social media, and how students have a responsibility to bridge the gender gap in sport by recognising how it is portrayed in the media, whilst positively engaging with content which celebrates sport regardless of gender.
She said: “I think it’s really important to talk to students at this time in their life when they are thinking about what they might want to do, how they are going to do it and what they feel they’re capable of. A large part of my message is to reassure them that they are capable of more than they think they are.
“They all have the potential to be great but what exactly they’re great at might not come to light until they look for it.”
Jess Widdowson, Enterprise Team Leader added: “As a College, we feel that not only is it important to celebrate this pivotal day, but also to celebrate people from a range of backgrounds.
“International Women’s Day is a celebration of equality and diversity which we encourage throughout the College.”
Khadija Khalifa, BBC One’s The Apprentice finalist, was also among the guest speakers and talked to students about being a successful business woman. Khadija discussed how to write a CV, prepare for an interview and the world of entrepreneurship whilst stressing the importance of resilience in all aspects of life.
Khadija was keen to share her top tips for networking within business and informed students about the importance of being approachable and kind, sharing knowledge and being a good communicator.
For more information about studying at Barnsley College telephone 01226 216 123, email info@barnsley.ac.uk, or visit www.barnsley.ac.uk
