Businesses in Dorset are invited to ‘break the bias’ by attending a unique Link & Learn event on International Women’s Day.

Content and PR agency Padua Communications is taking its monthly Link & Learn session to the Minstead Trust’s Hanger Farm Arts Centre in Lyndhurst.

Founder and Managing Director, Nicky Rudd, has brought together an impressive lineup of inspirational speakers for the exclusive event.

Each will share their view on the role of women in business and the challenges they have overcome to break the bias in their workplaces and industries.

They will share practical tips on creating a gender equal workplace, all while raising funds for the life-changing charity, Minstead Trust.

The speakers include:

• Sarah Wrixon of family-run brokerage Summers Insurance in Wimborne, pictured right
• Lucy Tidbury, artist and gallery owner at Lucy’s Farm in Swanage
• Sales expert Kristy Davies-Sumpter of Zest Consultancy
• Facilitator and change expert Jo Hompstead, Founder of Connect Up
• Executive Coach and Business Mentor Angie Beeston from Evolution 4 Business

This year’s International Women’s Day is on Tuesday March 8.

The global day celebrates the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.

The theme for 2022 is ‘break the bias’.

Everyone is invited to actively highlight gender bias, discrimination and stereotyping in every aspect of society, from workplaces, communities, and schools, to create a gender equal world.

The Minstead Trust has been supported by Padua Communications for several years.

The charity nurtures the unique potential of people with learning disabilities.

Its work includes providing training and support services through social enterprises Furzey Gardens, Hanger Farm Arts Centre and Minstead Lodge conference and events venue.

The International Women’s Day Link & Learn event will also celebrate 1928, the year women got the vote, as part of the Furzey Gardens centenary appeal.

Nicky said: “The Minstead Trust’s main lodge has adapted how it works as a venue because of Covid-19.

“This has had a huge impact on funds coming into the charity which does amazing work for adults with learning difficulties.

“As a female business owner, I always try and celebrate International Women’s Day.

“This year, organising a fundraising event seemed like the best idea.

“It will be great to run a face-to-face event, and the women that have agreed to share their stories are exceptional in their fields.

“What makes this extra special is that I have met a lot of them during lockdown.

“I am really thrilled that we can showcase their talent to help others on their business journeys, as well as raise funds for an amazing charity.”

Tickets to the event are priced at £18, including lunch and refreshments, with all proceeds going to the Minstead Trust.

Spaces are limited so early bookings are encouraged through Eventbrite to secure a place.