14th September 2007, 07/304
Businesswomen get the picture networking
Women with a good head for business across West Lancashire are
reaping the benefits of being part of a special networking
group.
Known as 'Women Excelling in Business', the initiative was launched
in November 2006 and provides an opportunity for like-minded
business focussed women from a broad range of sectors to share
knowledge, ideas and experiences within a positive environment
providing an opportunity to develop new contacts.
Since West Lancashire District Council introduced the network, it
boasts more than 50 members and is now attracting sponsorship of
events from a range of businesses across the District. A variety of
sponsorship packages are available to businesses interested in
raising their own profile through their partnership working with
this successful network.
The latest event was held on 12th September and was hosted by
artist James Bartholomew, who owns the Mill House Gallery in
Parbold and works full-time from his studio there.
It was a resounding success as James told WEB members about his
artistic inspiration and his experiences of being in business in
West Lancashire. He also kindly agreed to offer WEB members the
opportunity to win a signed print of one of his favourite pieces of
work, which he presented on the night to winner.
Cllr Ian Grant, Portfolio for Planning and Regeneration, said:
"James' seascape and landscape paintings have been awarded the
Charles Pears Award and the Sir Peter Scott Award and his work has
also been commissioned by the Sunday Times, the British Tourist
Authority, BBC Holidays, Christies and Bonhams, so his talk was a
real inspiration to those who attended. The women who came along
really enjoyed renewing business acquaintances, making some new
contacts and networking to their heart's content in the beautiful
setting of the gallery."
The next event is on 15th October at O'este wine bar and tapas
restaurant in Chapel Street, Ormskirk, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm. It
will be hosted by co-owners Beverley Carlton and Louise Carlton,
who are inviting WEB members to enjoy a truly 'Spanish experience'
with complimentary sampling from her extensive tapas menu.
Mrs Gail Stanley, Patron of WEB and the former High Sheriff of
Lancashire, said: "In the time that it has been running the network
keeps going from strength to strength as more women realise the
benefits of being part of this network. We've had some excellent
events so far this year, including one at Edge Hill University in
August where they organised personal development programmes for the
members, which was a real hit and very thought-provoking for those
who attended - and there's lots more to come. Not only is it a
chance to network but also it's a fantastic opportunity to develop
new skills and make new contacts. I would encourage women from all
sectors who want to excel in business to sign up to become a member
so that they can attend the many events that we have planned for
this year."
There are a number of membership opportunities available, which
will help women engage with a vast range of organisations and help
them to prosper and grow within the competitive world of
work.
Becoming a member means you will benefit from motivational
speakers, training, coaching, workshops, networking lunches and
dinners and some lighter events such as wine tasting and image
consultations. The network is also a 'not for profit' organisation
so members will get maximum benefit, although 5% of membership fees
will be donated to local charities.
Anyone who would like to become a member of Women Excelling in
Business or any organisation that is interested in sponsoring a
forthcoming WEB event can contact Clare Joynson, Investment Centre
Manager, on 01695 712600 or can register their interest using the
enquiry form on the West Lancashire
Investment Centre site.
For more information about how the District Council is helping
businesses, visit the Business Support section.
Related information
> Council
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> Business
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