New fun and fundraising group for businesswomen launched in Ipswich
A new fun and fundraising group for local businesswomen has been launched in Ipswich.
It is called WomenKIND.
The organisers say:“When strong women bond, amazing things will happen!”
The new group is intended for women of all ages.
The idea to form a group was the brainchild of Claire Bewley, 39, from Little Stonham, who runs her own business.
She said: “We wanted to be a group that is inclusive to all ladies – we felt that having an age range was too restrictive, as we wanted to attract women of different stages in life.
“Our aim is to have fun, meet new people and raise money for local good causes.”
Natasha Southgate 39 of Stonham added: “we want to get involved in activities we wouldn’t usually do and have a vision of raising money to make a difference to the local needs in our community.”
WomenKIND already has a following of almost 250 people on Facebook and is growing daily.
Already 20 members have signed up including accountants, full time mums, teachers, sales and marketing managers, a conveyancing executive and a painter and decorator.
Alexa Downing, 27, Ipswich, Legal Secretary at Birketts said: “as a relative newcomer to the Ipswich area, WomenKIND is exactly the kind of thing I’ve been looking for. Having the opportunity to be part of a group focused on giving something back to the local community is a great way to build new friendships and find out what great things you are capable of.”
Lorna Clark of Bella-Looe Photography & Portrait, was originally drawn to the group by answering a plea on Facebook group Suffolk Business Stars to photograph the launch event. Lorna donated her time photographing the first ladies’ gathering and enjoyed the occasion so much she decided to join herself!
Michelle Wooton from Debenham said: “I’m incredibly excited about the potential of WomenKind; the balance of the social aspects of the group while raising money for worthy causes is what really attracted me to become a member. I love my job, but as a single mum getting out and meeting people outside of work and business networking can be more problematic. Knowing that once a month I can enjoy an evening with like-minded women, whilst networking and fundraising, is an exciting prospect.
The new group already has some plans in place.
Founder Amanda Crichton,39, of Ipswich has set the group a goal of getting a princess carriage built to drive around the streets of Ipswich raising money - a bit like the Rudolph and the sleigh that goes around Ipswich at Christmas.
Amanda said: “it would be a spectacle – rather like a carnival float with lights and sound – we could have princesses and super heroes onboard … to build it we need to find a partner or people to help us design and engineer the structure.
“We will also need to find donations of materials, but it’s not impossible with the right people behind it.”
If you feel you are able to help the dream of a Princess Carriage come true then contact Claire, Natasha and Amanda at WomenKIND – ipswichwomenkind@gmail.com.
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