Barking and Dagenham’s sixth annual Women's Empowerment Month officially kicked off at Barking Town Hall on Friday 6 March, with a host of inspirational guest speakers and performances.



The launch featured Polly Neate CBE, Chair of The Barking and Dagenham Domestic Abuse Commission, Zahra Ibrahim, Director of Excel Women’s Centre, and Jessica Soares Paim, The Young Mayor.

The Women’s Empowerment Flag will be flown over the Town Hall throughout March, complimenting a packed programme for the month, with events including open mic nights and poetry showcase - there’s even the chance to get involved in a Women in Tech networking group.



Councillor Lynda Rice, Cabinet Member for Equalities and Diversity, said: "This was a fantastic launch with inspirational speakers from across the community. I was particularly proud to hear from our new Young Mayor, representing the future generation of leaders in the borough. I hope residents of all backgrounds will take advantage of the great events this month and share their stories.”

Find out more about all the events taking place throughout the month at www.lbbd.gov.uk/wem