Festival Of The Girl arrives in Newcastle for the first time
Girls across the North East are being encouraged to dream big this weekend - as an event to inspire young women comes to Newcastle for the first time ever
Girls across the north East are being encouraged to dream big this weekend - as an event to inspire young women comes to Newcastle for the first time ever.
The Festival, in partnership with NorthStandard, is designed for girls aged 7–11 and supports them to discover their potential and find inspiration from female role models across a variety of industries, including traditionally male-dominated sectors such as maritime and insurance.
There will be hands-on workshops, immersive activities, and opportunities to explore topics including sport, STEM, physical and mental health, friendships, sustainability, and future careers.
It has been co-founded by Abi Wright, who tells us it was born of her and her colleagues wanting MORE for their daughters;
"We were very aware of the gender stereotypes, which I think you become more aware of when you have children,
"And we started to think about all the things we didn't want for our girls as they were growing up.
"These gender stereotypes, these expectations on girls and boys - are pretty much set by the age of 4,
"And then if you're waiting a whole decade to come in and say 'well actually no, just ignore those stereotypes, here are the role models in this area...'
"It's too late."
Their research shows that by age 6 girls' confidence is significantly lower than boys', and that by age 11, girls are already struggling with issues such as low self-esteem and negative body image.
Abi tells us Festival of The Girl was started to help create a resilient foundation before they start secondary school and showing them the wide range of opportunities available to them, to help them realise their full potential.
The event takes place at Newcastle University's Sports Hall, on Saturday 21st March.
There is a morning session and an afternoon session, and the team have worked to make it as accessible as possible, with a SEND zone and pay what you can booking options.
You can find out more via the Festival Of The Girl Website.