Our Economy Team hosted an inspiring International Women’s Day event at the Palace Theatre in Paignton today (Friday 6 March). The celebration brought together women in business, local leaders, entrepreneurs, and allies from across the Bay to recognise and champion the achievements of women in the area.

Centred around this year’s International Women's Day theme, #GivetoGain, the event focused on empowerment, connection and positive action. Attendees heard inspiring talks, joined thought-provoking discussions, and built meaningful new relationships designed to spark growth, collaboration and confidence across Torbay’s business community. 

More than 100 people attended, engaging with a series of motivating talks, panel discussions and networking.

The event featured a dynamic line-up of speakers including Jess Wiggins, business and leadership coach; Maureen McAllister, Director of Jazz Hands CIC; Hannah Knowles, Art of Brilliance author and speaker; and the Torbay Women in Tech Panel from Torbay Hi-Tech Cluster.  Attendees also heard from the Start Up Torbay Business Panel, where local entrepreneurs shared honest insights into navigating business challenges, growth, and leadership as women in Torbay. 

The event was hosted by us and sponsored by Riviera International Centre, University Centre South Devon part of South Devon College, Torbay Hi-Tech Cluster and Torbay Weekly.

A charity raffle was held in support of Phoenix Rising, a Torbay women’s charity. Thanks to the generosity of local businesses and attendees, the raffle raised funds to support women facing adversity across the Bay. 

The event created a space where women could celebrate their achievements, connect with peers, and explore pathways for personal and business growth. Feedback has already highlighted how valuable it was to bring people together to share ideas, build confidence, and strengthen collaborations across sectors. 

Attendees were encouraged to add their reflections to a ‘pledge board,’ responding to the question: “What would you say to your younger self to inspire and empower them?”

The board quickly filled with encouraging messages of confidence, courage and self-belief — a collective reminder of the strength, resilience and ambition within Torbay’s women in business community. 

Torbay Council also created a Women in Business Directory, helping attendees stay connected, collaborate and support each other beyond the event. 

Cllr Chris Lewis, Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth and Deputy Leader of the Council, said: “International Women’s Day is an important reminder of the talent, determination and innovation that women bring to Torbay’s business community. Events like this create the space for women to connect, share ideas and inspire one another, and we are proud to support an environment where entrepreneurs and leaders can thrive. The energy and collaboration seen at the Palace Theatre demonstrate the incredible potential within our Bay, and we remain committed to championing women in business all year round.”

Hannah Knowles, Keynote Speaker at the event and Trainer with Art of Brilliance said: ‘‘International Women’s Day events like this are so important because they bring people together to share stories, support each other and celebrate how far we’ve come. At Art of Brilliance, we’re passionate about helping people believe in what’s possible, and events like this remind us all how powerful encouragement and connection can be.’’

International Women's Day takes place annually on 8 March. It celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also serves as a call to action for accelerating gender parity and is marked by a wide range of activities worldwide.