Women in business celebrated at Torbay International Women’s Day event

Torbay celebrated International Women’s Day with an inspiring event bringing together women in business, local leaders, entrepreneurs and allies from across the Bay.

Hosted by Torbay Council’s Economy Team at the Palace Theatre in Paignton on Friday 6 March, the celebration recognised and championed the achievements of women across the area.

Centred around this year’s International Women’s Day theme, #GivetoGain, the event focused on empowerment, connection and positive action. More than 100 people attended, taking part in a programme of motivating talks, panel discussions and networking designed to spark growth, collaboration and confidence within Torbay’s business community.

Attendees heard from 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 the Torbay Hi-Tech Cluster.

Guests 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 Torbay Council 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 also held during the event in support of Phoenix Rising, a Torbay-based 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 for women to celebrate their achievements, connect with peers and explore pathways for personal and business growth. Early feedback highlighted the value of bringing people together to share ideas, build confidence and strengthen collaborations across sectors.

Attendees were also invited 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 focused on confidence, courage and self-belief – a collective reminder of the strength, resilience and ambition within Torbay’s women in business community.

To help maintain those connections beyond the event, Torbay Council also created a Women in Business Directory, enabling attendees to collaborate and support each other in the future.

Cllr Chris Lewis, Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth and Deputy Leader of Torbay 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, added: “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, celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women while also serving as a call to action for accelerating gender parity around the world.