Inspirational Irish Women in History

True to form, these Irish women have shown tenacity and groundbreaking grit through the years

I think we could all use a good dose of inspiration right about now. In closing out Women’s History Month, we felt that this group deserved some major recognition. As St. Patty’s Day wasn’t given a fair shake this year, consider this a virtual celebration. Grab a Guinness, a whiskey or a hot cuppa tea and tip back, relax and soak it all in. Slainte!

Grace O’Malley

Grace O’Malley has been immortalized in Irish folklore as a valiant woman who defied gender expectations and fought for the independence of Ireland. Born into a wealthy seafaring family in a time when local chieftains ruled much of Ireland, O’Malley commanded raids on merchant ships and rival clans. She was a fearless leader and skilled diplomat, and eventually became known as the “Pirate Queen” of Connacht. A thorn in the side of the British for many years, she was so renowned that she was able to secure a meeting with Queen Elizabeth I in 1593.

Agnes Clerke

After looking at the planet’s through her father’s telescope as a child, Agnes Clerke fell in love with the stars. From then on, she became dedicated to studying astronomy. She wrote many articles about astronomy and became much more known after authoring her book; A Popular History of Astronomy During the 19th Century. Trailblazing her way into the field, she won numerous awards for her book, many of which were once reserved for men. Clerke certainly left her mark on the field of astronomy, so much so that in 1981, nearly 75 years after her death, NASA named a crater on the moon in her honor.

Jennie Wyse Power

One of the most prominent female figures in the 20th century due to her political affiliation, Jennie Wyse Power dedicated her life to Ireland. Not only was Power an activist, businesswomen, and feminist, but she was also a founding member of Sinn Féin, the oldest political party in Ireland. After being appointed to the First Seanad, she used her power to advocate and campaign for women's rights.

Rosie Hackett

Rosie Hackett dedicated her life to improving Ireland for Irish women. A working class woman, Hackett played a notable part in the 1913 Lockout. An infamous part of Ireland’s history, the strike caused her to lose her job. After that, Hackett became a founder of the Irish Women’s Workers Union and vigorously campaigned on behalf of the union’s 7,000 members. Years later, she and her broader vision for the country were honored after a Dublin bridge was named after her in 2014.

Dorothy Price

One of the most influential figures in Irish history, Dorothy Price was a driving factor behind the government’s decision to introduce Tuberculin testing and BCG vaccinations. This move resulted in the ending of the Irish tuberculosis epidemic of the 20th century. Despite facing resistance from just about everyone and increased chaos brought on by the start of WWII, Price continued to push onward. In 1937 St Ultan’s Hospital for Infants, where Price worked for years, became the first hospital in Ireland or Britain to use the vaccination.

Veronica Guerin

After making her start in public relations, and moving into journalism, Veronica Guerin became an acclaimed writer after her exposé on the activities of Irish drug criminals. As a tenacious crime reporter, she pursued each story deliberately and directly to the source, no matter the danger at hand. Even after her home was shot at, she pursued her stories. After Guerin was shot and subsequently killed, likely as a result of the stories she was pursuing, the country began to set up the Criminal Assets Bureau and crackdown on organized crime.

Joanne O’Riordan

Joanne was born with Total Amelia, a medical condition that results in being born without any limbs. O’Riordan challenged the Irish Government in 2011 when they planned on cutting the budget for people with disabilities. At only 16 years old Joanne’s courageous actions earned her an invitation to speak at the United Nations in New York. She spoke about the leading women in STEM, and how technology transformed her life.

Pennsylvania Celebrates International Women's Day in Several Cities Across the State

Pennsylvania takes a global approach by celebrating International Women's Day in big cities and small all across the state. In a state that is rich in history, it has shown that in cities like Philadelphia, that it is as committed to creating cities of sisterly love as it is in keeping Philadelphia known as the city of brotherly love. That is why we are PA all the way today! Happy International Women's Day!

Say WAT: Pittsburgh/Virtual

International Women’s Day 1M 5K 10K Entire month of March

Say WAT WAT: Moon Joggers, a national running community aimed at empowering everyone to run, is holding a nationwide virtual run event in celebration of International Women’s Day. The options for race length include 1 mile, 5K, 10K, half marathon, or full marathon. Simply pick a time and place, pay the $22 fee, complete your race, and report your time to Moon Joggers to receive your victory medal and race bib. Run or walk, inside or outside, treadmill or on foot, the possibilities are endless! Tickets are $22 and 15% of each entry is donated to Dress For Success.

WAT in the World: Women of Influence in relation to this world and or this event

In the neighboring city of Philadelphia, we found a golden girl on the running front. In addition to being a nurse, Samantha Roecker is an Olympic Trial-qualifying long distance runner. After earning her undergraduate degree from Providence College and her masters from Georgetown University, Roecker moved to Philadelphia to attend the University of Pennsylvania’s nursing program. Throughout her college and professional careers, she trained rigorously to improve her long distance times, often running 100 miles a week. In December of 2018, Roecker qualified for the Olympic Trials by finishing in third place at the California International Marathon.

Say WAT: Philadelphia

Philadelphia International Womxn’s Day at Asian Arts Initiative

March 7th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: Based in Philadelphia, the Asian Arts Initiative and Qunify co-present their event, International Womxn’s Day 2020. The event will feature interactive stations, performances, a queer dance social, and fosters a space of care and joy for women, trans, and non-binary people. Notable performances include SuperKnova and Messapotamia Lefae. While tickets are on sale for between $5 and $30, no one will be denied entry due to lack of funds, making this one of the most inclusive ways to celebrate International Womxn’s Day this year!

WAT in the World: Women of Influence in relation to this world and or this event

SuperKnova is a renowned Queer Pop artist from Chicago who aims to break free from oppressive stereotypes. As an Asian American transgender woman, SuperKnova rejects the tradionally “racist, misogynistic, homophobic, transphobic, ableist, imperialist, fatphobic gatekeepers” of the music industry in favor of what she calls the DIY culture of creating her own success.

Say WAT: West Chester

ARTolerance International Women’s Day March 8th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: The powerful organization known as ARTolerance lives at the intersection of female empowerment, art, and cross-cultural communication. Their upcoming event features two shows in celebration of International Women’s Day. The 2:30pm show will be held at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and the 7:30pm show will be at the Chester County Historical Society. Both shows honor the economic, social, cultural and political achievements of women through musical performances and storytelling.

WAT in the World: Women of Influence in relation to this world or this event

In her extensive history as a vocalist and composer, Tammy Sheffer has certainly made her mark, and she’s not stopping any time soon. Sheffer was born in Belgium and raised in Israel. She then moved to the United States to pursue her musical education and attended the New England Conservatory. After graduating with honors, she opened her own studio in Brooklyn, performed on some of the most prestigious stages in the country, and participated in Betty Carter’s Jazz Ahead workshop in Washington, DC and Philadelphia.

Say WAT: Philadelphia

Workout and Brunch

March 8th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: Based in Philadelphia, Women of the Row provides female rowers with a platform to further the success of women in rowing and beyond. They work to break down barriers between women and the historically male-dominated sports industry by connecting female-identifying rowers and paddlers along Philadelphia’s historic and iconic Boathouse Row. For just $10, you can start with a workout at Cassandra Cunningham’s workout facility, Power of 3, and then enjoy brunch surrounded by other badass women.

WAT in the World: Women of Influence in relation to this world and or this event

Smashing competitions and boundaries alike, Cassandra Cunningham has distinguished herself as a prominent coach and athlete. Before her renowned coaching career, Cunningham won three state championship titles in rowing while attending Sacramento State for her Bachelor’s of Science degree in Physical Education. She went on to train with the Women’s U.S. Rowing National Team for three years and won the US National Elite Championships five times. Between 1998 and 1999, Cunningham won a silver medal at the World Rowing Championships and another silver medal at the Pan American Games. After receiving her Master’s of Education in Administration from the University of Massachusetts, Cunningham has become a successful trainer and rowing coach.

Say WAT: Emmaus

FD Market and FD Design’s International Women’s Day Networking Celebration March 8th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: Located in Emmaus, FD Design Co. is an Interior Design Studio run by Jaime Benett. Those in attendance at the event will have the opportunity to peruse the FD market and studio while networking with other female business owners. As a plus, make and take home your own flower bouquets courtesy of Georgia’s Flower Truck. When women come together to forge relationships and support one another, great things happen. Events like the FD Market and FD Design Networking Celebration provide an environment for professional women to meet, greet, and collaborate. Tickets for this event are $25.

WAT in the World: Women of Influence in relation to this world and or this event

Kaitlyn Harrison is certainly someone who enjoys stopping to smell the roses. In doing so, Harrison established herself as one of Lehigh Valley’s most imaginative entrepreneurs. After bringing up a 1959 Volkswagen Transporter truck from Georgia, Harrison decided to transform the truck into a mobile flower shop with a twist. Customers have the unique opportunity to craft their own flower bouquets by choosing from over a dozen types of flowers and greens. When you see the blue Volkswagen pickup truck, you’ll know that it’s time to stop and smell the flowers.

Say WAT: Reading

LUNAFEST female film festival

March 8th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: LUNAFEST is a traveling film festival that showcases movies made by women, about women. By showcasing the work of female filmmakers, LUNAFEST promotes female causes and work that may otherwise be overlooked. The American Association of University Women is hosting this event from 3 PM to 6 PM at Albright College’s Wachovia Theater. The event kicks off with refreshments, displays, and a jewelry sale, and closes out with social networking and discussions. Tickets can be purchased online for $25 or at the door for $30.

WAT in the World: Women of Influence in relation to this world and or this event

Brittany B. Monét Fennell continues to push boundaries and fight for the representation of underrepresented groups across all film and media. After receiving her Bachelor’s of Art degree in English from Spelman College and her Master of Fine Arts in Film and Television from New York University, B. Monet began her professional career. In her 2018 debut, B. Monet blew audiences away with her short film Q.U.E.E.N., earning her the award for Best Graduate Feature Screenplay, as well as runner up status the Women and Hollywood’s First Time Female Filmmakers Contest. Her new film, Ballet After Dark, follows a young woman who utilizes dance therapy to help herself and other women find strength after sexual abuse and domestic violence. Having been shown at the Cannes Short Film Corner and dozens of other film festivals, B. Monet promises to be an influential female filmmaker.

Say WAT: Philadelphia

EmpowHERment Brunch Party

March 8th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: The City Tap House in University City is throwing a party in celebration of International Women’s Day. Grab your girls, build your own mimosas for just $15, and enjoy pop-up shops by local female shops and music by Philadelphia’s own DJ Yolo Ono on the largest terrace in Philly. The event starts at 11am and runs until 3pm. This is a party that you don’t want to miss! Whether you’ve found your tribe or you’re still looking, dive deep into events like these, because you never know who you’re going to meet.

WAT in the World: Women of Influence in relation to this world and or this event

Founder of Girls Gone Happy and a vendor at this event, Justine Haemmerli wants to change the world by "giving women the tools they need to learn to listen to themselves again, and become those agents of change.” Girls Gone Happy features activities and products that help women connect more deeply with themselves and others. A popular product are Haemmerli’s card decks that focus on a central theme, allowing women to choose their deck based on where they’re at in life. From the motherhood deck to the clarity deck, Girls Gone Happy products support women in their journey to be their best selves and connect with fellow women on a meaningful level.

Say WAT: Pittsburg

International Women's Day Trail Project March 8th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: Join Pittsburgh’s female Park Ranger staff in building and maintaining trails in Boyce Park. Whether you’re a fitness queen who wants to conquer it all or just looking to help out, there is work to be done for all fitness levels. The event starts at 9 AM and lasts until 12 PM. This event allows you to volunteer your time and energy in honor of our ultimate mother, Mother Nature, as well as support female park rangers in your community. This event is a perfect choice for families who are looking to celebrate International Women’s Day together.

WAT in the World: Women of Influence in relation to this world and or this event

Established in 1872, Yellowstone National Park was the world’s first national park, and it remains one of the most famous worldwide. For almost 148 years, Yellowstone has been overseen by strictly male chief rangers, until now. Sarah Davis, a National Parks Service veteran of 20 years, was appointed the new chief ranger in the fall of 2019. As the first female chief ranger in history, Davis serves as an inspiration all over the world.

Say WAT: Pittsburgh

All Rise Female Maker Faire

March 8th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: The Wild Rose Collective, an organization aimed at empowering women through creation, is hosting this free event from 10 AM to 4 PM at the Ace Hotel Pittsburgh. Whether you’re there for the handmade goodies, the jewelry, the performances, or the free tote bag, you’re guaranteed to walk away with something that strikes your fancy. Not only is buying local important, but buying from female owned businesses is an incredible way to support women within your community and all over the world. Come out and support your local women and get some goodies doing it!

WAT in the World: Women of Influence in relation to this world and or this event

Lindsey Smith and Quelcy Kogel, co-founders of The Wild Rose Collective, both have a rich and interesting history that makes them women to watch! As an author and speaker, Smith has inspired more than 1,000 writers to launch their own dream books. Through her work, Smith has been featured in Cosmo Magazine, Oprah.com, and a Zagat documentary. Working as a contributing editor for TABLE Magazine, Kogel specializes in photography, event design, and food and prop styling. Kogel also released her own gluten-free cookbook, The Gluten Free Grains Cookbook, and launched a website dedicated to following her farm-to-table lifestyle.

Say WAT: Millersville

Millersville University International Women’s Day Celebration

March 9th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: Forging a pathway forward, Millersville University is hosting their second annual talk series, Theodora Talks: TED Talks From A Feminine Perspective. Theodora Talks approach issues from a female perspective, allowing women to gather, learn, and celebrate together while hearing from speakers who understand what it’s like to live as a woman. This year’s theme is “Pathways Forward” and will feature three female speakers. The Millersville University President’s Commission on the Status of Women is hosting this event at the Winter Center on Millersville’s campus, and will be offering childcare free of charge. This event is free and open to the public and starts at 6pm.

WAT in the World: Women of Influence in relation to this world and or this event

The first speaker is Ho-Thanh Nguyen, who will share her experience as an advocate for refugees and immigrants. Nguyen founded the Pennsylvania Immigrant and Refugee Women’s Network, a nonprofit organization. The second speaker is Audrey Malagon, a professor of mathematics at Virginia Wesleyan University and a member of the Mathematical Association of America. Malagon works to promote inclusion and diversity in the mathematical community while supporting students from underrepresented groups. Last but not least, be sure to catch Millersville’s very own Dr. Tanya Rawal, a gender and media specialist with a Ph.D. in Comparative Literature and Foreign Languages from the University of California. As a researcher, educator, and activist, Rawal has taught subjects including philosophy, gender studies, media studies, cultural studies, and sustainability studies.

Say WAT: Coatesville

International Women's Day Outside!

March 8th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: REI, Natural Lands, and Well By Nature are teaming up to host an adventurous International Women’s Day Celebration. For $15, you can join the owner of Well By Nature and Natural Lands in a morning of yoga and hiking. Throughout the event, REI will be showcasing their gear in an effort to empower you to conquer all of your future adventures. The event will wrap up with an outdoor movie screening. The event runs from 10 AM - 2 PM, so pack your lunch, layers, and water to get ready for an ventresome celebration.

WAT in the World: Women of Influence in relation to this world or this event

As the owner of Well By Nature, Julie Macedo is committed to improving people’s health and happiness through yoga and holistic nutrition. Having earned her Bachelor's Degree in Holistic Health and Wellness, Macedo is a certified yoga instructor who specializes in pre and postnatal yoga. Join Julie and her colleagues on March 8th to experience her yoga expertise firsthand!

Say WAT: Washington, DC

Suffragists' Tea - A Centennial Celebration of Women's Suffrage | March 8th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: We couldn't help but add in one DC event due to its close proximity to PA. That coupled with the fact that at this International Women’s Day, they are also celebrating the centennial anniversary of women gaining the right to vote in the US. Join fellow suffragists for tea and light refreshments at the George Washington Hotel. Wear period clothing or one of the theme colors (purple, gold, and white) to fully immerse yourself in this historic event! Following a biographical performance by Yvonne Hudson and live music by the Washington Jazz Orchestra, make like a suffragist and join the short march down the main street. Tickets can be purchased for $25 but hurry, there is limited space available.

WAT in the World: Women of Influence in relation to this world and or this event

As we honor the modern women who are pushing for change and paving the way for a better future for women at home and all over the world, let’s take a moment to honor two women of our past. Sisters Harriet Forten Purvis and Margaretta Forten were abolitionists and first generation suffragists. Together with their mother, they founded the first biracial abolitionist group, the Philadelphia Female Anti-Slavery Society. They also helped make the National Woman’s Rights Convention of 1854 possible and organized the Philadelphia Suffrage Association in 1866. There in lies the tie back to PA and the Philadelphia, the city of brotherly and sisterly love.

Say WAT: Erie

Women of Erie Progressive Paint Night March 5th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: This event is hosted by the Women of Erie, a community with a diverse makeup of citizens. Join the Women of Erie and Paintology staff for a Progressive Paint Night from 6pm to 7:30pm at Attic Rehab. Attendees will work together to create a collaborative project that everyone gets a piece over before the night is over. This event provides the unique opportunity to create and connect at the same time! Let your creative juices flow while you learn more about the women in your community. Tickets can be purchased for $30. Wear appropriate painting attire and BYOB.

WAT in the World: Women of Influence in relation to this world and or this event

Founder of Women of Erie, Kiara Carniewski, created this community when she moved to Erie after graduating from St. Bonaventure University in New York. After beginning her professional career in marketing, Carniewski realized that Erie was in need of a community to unite women from all walks of life. Thus, Women of Erie was born.

Written by Chandler Scull

The US Celebrates International Women's Day

International Women's Day is Now a Movement and a Month

Join us this weekend and throughout Women's History Month as we celebrate women of influence in the US

Say WAT: Albuquerque, New Mexico

Climate Change and Human Migration - No Place Left to Go

March 8th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: Albuquerque, New Mexico’s International Women’s Day will be having a panel discussion to talk about climate change and human migration.

WAT in the World: What are women doing in this corner of the world?

Debbie Johnson, Founder and CEO of Tender Love Community Center has experienced homelessness first-hand. Her goal is to keep other women from being put in the same position. Tender Love has created a safe environment for women to learn job skills that will enable them to get off the streets.

Say WAT: Atlanta, Georgia

Women in Leadership Luncheon and Book Discussion

March 13th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: Georgia State University's Robinson College of Business is holding a discussion on the book "Nice Girls Don't Get the Corner Office". There will be a panel of alumni and other distinguished women of influence in the area discussing corporate leadership as a woman.

WAT in the World: What are women doing in this corner of the world?

Linda Matzigkeit, chief administrative officer of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta prioritizes her health, then her family, then her job. She says being a mom creates a softness that can be utilized in the workplace. She has created a program to help parents to get back into the workforce after three years or more away.

Say WAT: Berkeley, California

Women's Adventure Film Tour

March 5th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: Originally starting out in Australia, this festival has expanded to New Zealand, Asia, the UK, and the US. The film festival showcases films made by women, yet enjoyed by everyone.

WAT in the World: What are women doing in this corner of the world?

Chris Evans is a female performance artist. Her work is created to bridge the gap between space, dance, music, the audience and the artist. She has her Masters in Literature and uses several elements to create beautiful and commentative works that must be seen and experienced in person.

Say WAT: Cary, North Carolina

Fourth Annual IWD Celebration

March 6th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: Cary, North Carolina will be having their IWD celebration with a panel discussing women’s wellness, healthcare, pharma, and finance.

WAT in the World: What are women doing in this corner of the world?

Anupama Joshi, who grew up in New Delhi, India but now lives in Cary, NC, is the executive director and co-founder of a program called “Farm to School Network.”  The program shows kids the importance of using local farms for agriculture and it lets them meet the farmers to create connections within their community.

Say WAT: Grand Rapids, Michigan

Film Screening Queen of Katwe

March 8th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: For International Women’s Day, SowHope is hosting a screening of Queen of Katwe in the Cinema Woodland Mall in Grand Rapids on Sunday, March 8th. Queen of Katwe is the true story of a brilliant girl from the slums of Uganda who discovers she has a natural talent for chess.

WAT in the World: What are women doing in this corner of the world?

With a focus on another area of Michigan, the Executive Director of Oakland Avenue Farm, Jerry Hebron, is a staple in the Detroit community. She has been working to ensure that the communities needs are met, and has helped design Oakland Avenue Farm to be community-based with a dedication to growing foods for a healthy diet, educate about sustainability, and grow an active cultural environment in the neighborhood.

Say WAT: Honolulu, Hawaii

Like a Girl Street Festival

March 7th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: Honolulu Beerworks and The Women’s Fund of Hawaii are partnering this year to host the first annual “Like a Girl '' street festival. This female-focused festival will host a street market of female-owned businesses, ranging from food, retail, and everything in between. Honolulu Beerworks will be releasing Triple Threat, their 2020 Pink Boots beer. One dollar from each pint sold will benefit the Pink Boots Society, an international non-profit supporting women in the brewing industry.

WAT in the World: What are women doing in this corner of the world?

Former University of Hawaii Women’s Director of Athletics, Dr. Donnis Thompson, helped lay the foundation for the thriving women's sports program. Starting in 1961, she started the Women’s Track and Field program, and was the first coach. After her time at the university, she went on to become the first woman to serve as the Superintendent of Education for Hawaii.

Say WAT: Irvine, California-

Cocktails and Connect

March 5th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: LawWorks, Harvard Law School Women’s Alliance of Orange County, and the Orange County Women Lawyers Association are hosting Cocktails & Connect in celebration of International Women’s Day. They are bringing together women in the legal profession to build and strengthen relationships, within community. Each attendant will fill out an Each for Equal pledge card, pledging one tangible action they can complete to help further gender equality in their life.

WAT in the World: What are women doing in this corner of the world?

We are heading to the north of the state and switching the focus from pours to plates. Food warrior and chef Alice Waters is the owner of Chez Panisse, a restaurant located in Berkley, California, famous for its California cuisine and locally grown, organic ingredients. Waters has stated that North California is “a place where great ideas are born”, and she is one of the people making her community better with her food-driven ideas. She has pushed the envelope and the plate far beyond her state.

Say WAT: Louisville, Kentucky

Women’s Day Tea

March 9th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: Anthology of Senior Living of Louisville is hosting a panel of influential local women. This spirited event will have Louisville women discussing their hopes and concerns for women in the future. Join this community-driven event celebrating local women and their many accomplishments.

WAT in the World: What are women doing in this corner of the world?

Mallory Christina Ervin has an extensive resume. From being Miss Kentucky in 2009, to appearing on The Amazing Race three times, to starting her own YouTube channel, blog, and podcast, Mallory has carved out quite a career in new media and in the entertainment industry.

Say WAT: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Oklahoma Live Music

March 8th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: Dedicated to women and run by women, this one day only festival is celebrating International Women’s Day.  Supporting the local female creative community, you can expect to hear anyone from Millie Mesh to DJ Goodness alongside a variety of musical acts from classical to hip hop. Tickets are only $10. A portion of proceeds will go to City Rescue Mission in Downtown Oklahoma City.

WAT in the World: What are women doing in this corner of the world?

Caroline Zink-Hott Abbott is a mental health advocate, and an attorney. In fifteen years, she has provided free legal services to over 1,500 clients, many of which are homeless and dealing with mental health conditions.

Say WAT: Portland, Oregon

Women Matter

March 9th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: Join Women Matter at Cascadia in Portland for an afternoon of music, food, art, and conversation in celebration of the local women who are bettering the community. From a documentary screening to discussions, reflections, and dance performances, the event honors the many powerful women in the community.

WAT in the World: What are women doing in this corner of the world?

After previously serving as Chief Investigator at a public defender’s office, Rene Denfeld, decided to switch things up and jump into fiction writing. It's no surprise that the themes in her novels are resilience, survival, and redemption. She has since been awarded the Break The Silence Award in Washington, DC for her social justice work, and she was named one of the Heroes of the Year in 2017 by the New York Times.

Say WAT: Raleigh, North Carolina-

When Women Unite Social

March 8th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: In honor of International Women’s Day, the When Women Unite Social will be happening on March 8th. At this event, they will be collecting toiletries and tote bags for the Women’s Center of Wake County, who help women who are victims of abuse and/or suffer from other hardships.

WAT in the World: What are women doing in this corner of the world?

Raleigh native, Leigh-Kathryn Bonner is the founder and CEO of Bee Downtown. Bonner was recently named one of the most inspiring entrepreneurs by INC Magazine. Her company's goal is to promote sustainable honey bee communities in urban neighborhoods that focusing on sustainability as honey bees are facing threats due to climate change. From three hives in 2014, Bee Downtown has grown to 200 in 2019. Bonner has received sponsorship support from Chick-fil-A, Delta, and Burt’s Bees.

Say WAT: Salem, Massachusetts

Women’s March Salem

March 8th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: The Salem Women’s March will be combined with International Women’s Day this year, to emphasize the impact women have in this historical Massachusetts community. Starting at 11 am, there will be booths, food, and coffee trucks before the march kicks off in Downtown Salem. After the march concludes, everyone can return to a park where there will be live music, and groups sharing information about local women and businesses.

WAT in the World: What are women doing in this corner of the world?

Focusing on another part of the state, Barbara Lynch has become one of the most notable women in the restaurant community in Boston. Her self titled foundation supports numerous local nonprofits. She has made a point to connect with to organizations that prioritize women. This May, Lynch is announcing a new summer lineup for the newly revived Full Plate Lunch series, which is a networking and speaking program aimed for women in the Boston area.

Say WAT: Salt Lake City, Utah

SHEROES United

March 9th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: SHEROES will be holding a free community event to celebrate International Women’s Day, and the 100 year anniversary of the passing of the19th Amendment. Along with powerful public speakers, and dance performances, the night will conclude with the annual One Billion Rising Dance, to convey the message of ending violence and oppression against women worldwide.

WAT in the World: What are women doing in this corner of the world?

A former early education teacher, Rebekah Myers Dunford, lives to empower women. She hosts a monthly women's group, Sacred Sisters Full Moon Circle, that focuses on women's empowerment, wisdom, and the sacred feminine. They also do humanitarian work, and raise money for organizations that benefit women.

Say WAT: Seattle, Washington

Be Bold Seattle

March 5th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: The nonprofit, Be Bold Seattle, is hosting their fifth annual International Women’s Day event in Downtown Seattle this year. Influential speakers will be giving presentations to support, and empower women to achieve equality in their respective fields and businesses.

WAT in the World: What are women doing in this corner of the world?

Kiki Wolfkill is a titan in the video game developing industry. After becoming Director of Art at Microsoft Game Studios, she served as the head during their development of Project Gotham Racing series, and working on Halo Legends. She is passionate about getting more women to get into gaming.

Say WAT: Chicago, Illinois

Wine, Women, and Allie

March 12th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: Wine, Women, and Allie will be conducting panel discussions during Chicago’s IWD celebration. Women in technology will be talking about how they started out their careers and will offer advice to other women looking to get into technology.

WAT in the World: What are women doing in this corner of the world?

Amy Dordek Dolinsky is the Co-Founder of the company GrowthPlay. Dolinsky has been a force for good in the Chicago area. She was the president to Meals on Wheels and continues to be a main supporter of the non-profit. She also works with a women’s organization called International Women’s Forum that is a global network of women leaders.

Say WAT: Dallas, Texas

A Moment in Her-story

August 3rd, 2020

Say WAT WAT: A Moment in Her-story is an event taking place later in the year. It is an event worth noting as it is a powerful networking event with women from all walks of life talking about their stories and successes while celebrating the 100 year anniversary of a women's right to vote.

WAT in the World: What are women doing in this corner of the world?

Erica Felicella has spent the better part of the last decade working in the arts in Dallas. As the executive director of ArtCon, she leads the nonprofit's team in bringing together artists and musicians to raise funds for creative organizations in North Texas.

Say WAT: Fargo, North Dakota

Celebrate Women - International Women's Day

March 8th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: Fargo, North Dakota will be having a 100 year International Women’s Day celebration.

WAT in the World: What are women doing in this corner of the world?

Danyel Moe and Laura Caroon are Fargo locals who have created Ladybosses of Fargo-Moorhead. The business is a place where women come together, learn from one another, and feel empowered. They encouraging confidence in women to help them achieve their goals in the workforce.

Say WAT: Fremont, Illinois

Celebrate in the Tri-city Area

March 14th, 2020

Say WAT WAT: Fremont, Illinois has a free event mid-March where people come together from the tri state area to celebrate women and listen and learn about their dedication to their craft and their love of the arts.

WAT in the World: What are women doing in this corner of the world?

On the business side of things and in another area of the state, Maggie Coleman became one of JLL's (a real estate company) managing directors. She is champion of change as she sits as the chair for diversity. Her in recruiting efforts and advocacy have created a healthy workplace. She often mentors young women in the industry.

Written by Casey Lauer