The Power of the Where are the Women? Workshops

Introduction to the Women's Spaces Project

Back in November 2024, I had the pleasure of attending a series of workshops, titled 'Where are the Women?', as part of the Women's Spaces project, organised by Northern Ireland Rural Women's Network (NIRWN). Over a three-week period, a small group of us from the surrounding Mourne area came together, with my mother—who is generally ‘not into these sorts of things’—coming along to support me.

Exploring Women's Roles Through Film and Discussion

After getting to know each other, we delved into clips from the Northern Ireland Screen, with Bronagh McAtasney contextualising the extracts for us. She and Charmain Jones then opened the floor for discussion. The portrayals of Northern Irish women in these clips led to many insightful conversations on the changing roles of women in Northern Irish society.

Some extracts featured the way women were spoken about during a beauty pageant, and another where they were at work. The most interesting for me, however, were not the clips where men were asked their opinions, but the one where women were asked their opinion on the concept of a female priest. Many of the women in the clip disagreed with this, leading to discussions on social mobility, feminism, and internalised sexism.

Broader Conversations Beyond the Film Clips

Our conversations always extended beyond the films, as we touched upon topics such as social media and sex work. As women from different backgrounds and of different ages, we were able to learn from each other's experiences. I was left reevaluating my perspective long after the session, as was my mother, who became engaged after the first session.

The Importance of Women's Spaces

As a young woman living in a rural area such as Kilkeel, having these women’s spaces is so important. They not only offer a safe, comfortable environment to share your worries but also empower you to become active in your own community and the wider political sphere of Northern Ireland.

Having always wanted to work in a female-based organisation, the sessions run by Bronagh and Charmain helped me realise that this was a role I had the ability to pursue, even in my local area.

Networking and Building a Supportive Community

Finally, the workshops were an amazing place for networking, as I met so many inspirational women who I am still in contact with today. This demonstrates how women in Northern Ireland can support and build each other up, especially in rural communities where social mobility can be limited.

I encourage women to attend these workshops when available to them, to push themselves outside of their comfort zone so that they may realise their potential.

Empower Your Group with the Where are the Women? Workshops

If you’re part of a women’s group and want to foster meaningful discussions and empowerment, get in touch with the Women's Spaces team. The Where are the Women? sessions can help your group connect, reflect, and grow together.