REVIEW: Celebrating International Women's Day at Windsor & Eton Brewery

March 8 saw MyRoyalBorough put on its largest networking event yet, in conjunction with The Windsor and Eton Brewery.

Over 80 female businesswomen and local female-led businesses came together to celebrate the incredible achievements of women in the Royal Borough and beyond.

The day kicked off with a panel of six select guest speakers, from across a wide range of disciplines, who shared their inspirational stories.

Tricia Wilkie, owner of The Mind Hub reminded all those gathered that 'self-care isn’t selfish' and that as women we need to remember to prioritise our own wellness.

Nicola Miller, CEO of The Dash Charity, for whom the event was a fundraiser, explained how we can support those who we suspect may be victims of domestic abuse, and highlighted that 'domestic abuse is rooted in gender inequality'.

Sport was also on the agenda, with Kate Hallet, chair of Windsor Women’s & Girls Rugby (and a pro player herself with Wasps) talking frankly both of the pride and the pitfalls of being a woman in a male-dominated world, and Liz Berry, owner of Creek Paddles explaining her incredible environmental work, cleaning up local stretches of river with Planet Patrol.

Oscar and BAFTA award-winning Nina Hartstone entertained and inspired us with her stories of women in sound editing for film, whilst Melania Bellesini, head sommelier at Fat Duck Group, told of her fascinating journey climbing the ranks in the world of hospitality.

Following a thought-provoking Q&A, which focused on inspiring the younger generation, the all-female bar staff pulled pints and poured Prosecco and the Test Kitchen, of Patch on the Plaza fame, served up their legendary hot dawgs and loaded fries.

There was a palpable sense of sisterhood, as women shared their struggles alongside their success stories, swapped contact details and filled the airy space with laughter.

Into the afternoon, local female artists lined the mezzanine, whilst small business showcased their wares around the bar. With brewery tours, a raffle and goodie bags also on offer, the brewery was buzzing.

Windsor Girls' School singers performed to a delighted audience and the magnificent Emma Jane Kennedy set the mood for a great evening of solidarity and celebration.

Nicola Bell, from MyRoyalBorough, who conceived and organised the event, with the help of the brewery general manager Alfie Horn summed up the day perfectly: “It was amazing having so many brilliant local women in a room together, sharing ideas and inspiring each other.”