Businesswomen in Barry and the Vale gathered to celebrate International Women’s Day at a free business event today, Friday, March 8.

Women were invited to a free business event at the Goodsheds in Barry, to help each other to greater success.

The empowering event was organised by the owners of Box Edit Boutique and Annie & Lolo at Goodsheds.

The event was open to all women business owners, entrepreneurs, women in business and women looking to set up their own business.

Ashley McMath Stephens of Box Edit Boutique helped to organise the event.

She said: “This International Women’s Day, we wanted to shine a spotlight on the growing number of women-run businesses in the area, celebrate success stories and offer a space for mutual support and connection.”

Barry And District News: Attendees listen to inspirational women on International Women's Day. Picture: SuppliedAttendees listen to inspirational women on International Women's Day. Picture: Supplied (Image: Supplied)The group heard from four inspiring local speakers to discuss how ‘when women support each other, incredible things happen.’

Speakers included Cassandra Bodington; Goodsheds-based business coach, who recently featured in Amazon Prime’s ‘Business as Unusual’ documentary.

Stacey Grant-Canham; founder of global fashion brand Black & Beech, Rupali Wagh; entrepreneur and co-founder of the Tukka Tuk street food brand and Vicky Friis, Chief Executive of Vale Domestic Abuse Services.

The group discussed valuable advice on starting and expanding a business while emphasizing the importance of values, community, and mutual support for business growth.

The event also helped raise awareness and crucial funds for Vale Domestic Abuse Services, a charity supporting women and families throughout The Vale of Glamorgan.

Goodsheds is home to various food, drink, lifestyle, and retail businesses where 80% of the owners are women.

One of the organisers of this event, Lois Nolan of Annie & Lolo at Goodsheds, said: “With no women’s business forum or network currently in operation in the area, there is a real lack of opportunity for like-minded women to get together, share their stories, their challenges and their great ideas that can help other women-led businesses in the area to grow and develop.

“When women support women, amazing things can happen. It’s great that this event has brought together the vast knowledge and skills of so many brilliant local women, whilst also raising awareness of Vale Domestic Abuse Services; a charity that day in-day out supports women.”