As March 8th rolled around a few weeks ago, we saw people worldwide come together to celebrate the annual International Women’s Day. But for the first time, 3 Donkeys, or me (Amanda) specifically, got to celebrate as a recognised business owner in Small Business Britain’s f:Entrepreneur campaign. But I was also fortunate enough to get an invite to attend a special reception at the House of Lords in a very soggy London.
International Women’s Day 2023
Every year, International Women’s Day (IWD) is celebrated on March 8th and aims to highlight, recognise, and celebrate the achievements of women around the world. You probably saw a lot about it on your social media feeds and TV.
You might not know that IWD has a theme each year, and this year’s theme was #EmbraceEquity. It’s an important one, highlighting how gender equity and diversity need to be embraced by society. And why we need to challenge gender stereotypes and speak up about discrimination and bias. But, important as IWD is, how do I feature in it? Well, it started with Small Business Britain (SBB).
The f:Entrepreneur campaign
SBB is founded and run by Michelle Ovens CBE to champion, inspire, and support small businesses nationwide. As part of their work, SBB also runs specific campaigns, including f:Entrpreneur, to recognise the contribution of women business owners in the UK. And each year, 100 of them are showcased as role models to inspire other small businesses in the #IAlso100 campaign.
It’s an application-only campaign, so, you guessed it – I applied. And I was selected to be one of the 100 women in the 2023 f:Entrepreneur #IAlso100 line-up. So while I got to feature on their website and across their socials, I joined the other 99 inspiring women for an afternoon tea with cake and prosecco. And it all took place at the House of Lords in London on IWD itself.
After a long journey from west Devon, I got to network and chat with other #IAlso100 female entrepreneurs. And how great was it to hear each other’s stories and celebrate in style in a pretty unique environment? On top of that, we heard from two excellent guest speakers too. Entrepreneur and business coach Lucy Griffiths and Seema Malhotra MP, Labour’s Shadow Minister for Business.
And, of course, the post-event drinks at The Red Lion pub in Westminster were unmissable. That gave us all a chance to have a really good chat long after the main event was over.
Onwards and upwards for 3 Donkeys
Any award or celebratory event like this, even International Women’s Day itself, leaves me feeling completely re-energised, inspired, and driven to succeed with 3 Donkeys. And we’ve already taken positive steps with our product line this year with our hi-vis women’s workwear range.
Partnering with Leo Workwear, we saw the launch of our hi-vis, branded Ashbury Snood Sweatshirt, Foxworthy Hoodie, and Raven Waistcoat – and there’s plenty more in the pipeline. Plus, we have even more to come with our range of exclusive 2-into-1 ladies’ coveralls. Watch this space!
2023 looks set to be a year like no other, and we can’t wait to see what else is in store. It’s definitely a case of onwards and upwards! Who knew ladies’ coveralls could take us so far and even further? If you have any questions about our hi-vis products, coveralls, or apparel, just ask us. Call us on 01837 658 328 or email: sales@3donkeys.co.uk today, and we’ll be happy to help.
