Blog: Happy International Women’s Day 6 March 2025 On 6 March 2025, Hestia gathered 113 women to celebrate International Women’s Day. This year’s theme was Accelerate Action. An opportunity to accelerate action towards gender equality and to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievement of women worldwide. This event was formed as part of Hestia’s newly launched ‘Be You’ programme focusing on supporting survivors of domestic abuse and modern slavery to rediscover their identity, confidence, and self-worth. We were able to put on volunteer-led activities like yoga, singing, art, and pampering. We were delighted to have 55 service users attend from across our Domestic Abuse and Modern Slavery services. One service user, said: “The event showed me what it means to be strong, creative and inventive. I found the environment inspiring and motivating.” Another service user, said: “This wonderful event [was] filled with warmth, care, and support. It was very emotional and even a little sad because every woman here is going through the aftermath of domestic violence. But despite that, there was so much light! It was inspiring – it gave me strength to move forward and to start feeling like a woman again.” Our focus was on women's empowerment and community engagement. The event hosted a range of speakers including Alessandra Frausin, an executive coach passionate about uplifting women, and Shifa Al Amoodi, who spoke about her personal experience and becoming a volunteer with Hestia. Left to right: Shifa and Alexandra speaking at International Women's Day event One service user left feeling “inspired, empowered and deeply connected to the community of women” around her. Another service user felt “better able to take on the challenges in [her] life.” Sarah Fulham, Director of Domestic Abuse Services, Hestia Hestia also partnered with TSB, Tokio Marine HCC, Virgin and CAF rail to host diverse and interactive stalls and sessions that guests could visit. We also held a delicious lunch with refreshments and at the end of the event, our guests received goodie bags as a thank you for attending. Hestia partners with TSB, Tokio Marine HCC, Virgin and CAF rail with stalls for our survivors to explore The day brought women together to cultivate community. It provided a platform for learning and sharing experiences and fostered discussion of empowerment and resilience. Thank you to everyone involved that helped make this happen – we couldn’t do it without you! Manage Cookie Preferences