Women complete strategic leadership programme

The aim of the Programme was to increase the number of women leaders in key decision making roles in the north west by enhancing their skills, knowledge and leadership capacity. It was the first of its kind to be accredited to Level 5 OCNNI and attracted women from the statutory and voluntary sectors across the region. DemocraShe, an agency based in Belfast, delivered the programme which was organised by Women into Public Life, the cross border project funded by the EU’s INTERREG IVA programme, which is managed by the Special EU Programmes Body.

Sessions focused on topics such as equality, leadership, the media, strategic thinking, decision-making, influencing change as well as gaining greater understanding of politics and policy making. Such subjects were brought to life by guest speakers which included journalists, politicians and policy makers as well as women holding key leadership positions in the region. The programme realised very positive outcomes for participants, one of whom, in the course of the training, was successfully recruited on to a state board.

A two day visit to Brussels was also included in the programme where participants met with MEPs, representatives of the FEMM Equality Committee, the European Women’s Lobby and the European Trade Union Congress.

The visit also included a tour of the European Parliament.