Global Women in News

In six months.

I travelled to five different countries. Organised 72 workshops all over the world. Talked to hundreds of women, hopefully helped them too and made a few forever friends.

Global Women in News was founded by Lilian Landor - Controller of BBC News International. When it started I knew I had to get involved - she’s an inspiring woman, leading an inspirational staff network. It has become the biggest staff network in the BBC with over 2,000 members.

I volunteered for four years. I found a tiny bookshop in Southampton that doubled up as a wonderful events space to deliver workshops to inspire fellow female colleagues.

When the International position came up, I had to apply.

My six months were packed with empowerment, ambition and adventure. I created, revived and supported Global Women in News’ networks across the world. I reached out to so many women in so many places.

New York, Singapore, Delhi, Nairobi, Moscow, Kiev, Lagos, Abuja, Georgia, Washington, South Africa, Cairo and Istanbul.

I had the opportunity to travel to Moscow, Nairobi, Kiev, Cairo and Beirut.

We had fun delivering workshops covering: how to negotiate, stepping up, confidence, understanding your values, the art of radio and working mothers. We talked about serious issues: the gender pay gap, maternity leave, the menopause, sexual harassment and bullying. I tried to find ways to support the women and put things in place to help them support each other.

It was a challenge to deliver so many things on a small budget and relying on other people’s passion and desire to make things better for women. But it was a challenge I would do again in a heartbeat.

It was an honour to meet women from so many different cultures and experience their way of life in a way that would be impossible if stuck behind a desk in London.

If you have a little time take a look at the short video below. It gives a little insight into my project.

All filmed on my mobile