International Women’s Day: Celebrating Inspirational Women
International Women’s Day: Celebrating Inspirational Women
International Women’s Day is a moment to call for action and change on gender inequality, but it is also a moment to celebrate and recognise the incredible contributions of women who are making a difference. In my role as Police and Crime Commissioner, I have had the privilege of meeting so many inspirational women who have left a lasting impression on me. Today, I want to highlight a few of these extraordinary women who inspire me.
Jade, Bristol Robins Foundation
Jade’s journey is one of resilience and purpose. She was talent-spotted to become a professional footballer, but when that dream didn’t come to fruition, she struggled to find her path and faced many struggles. I first met Jayde at the Bristol Robins Foundation sports gala, where I learnt about the incredible impact she now has through leading the ADD-Mentor Project.
Drawing from her own lived experiences, Jayde connects with children in a way that makes them feel truly understood. Her message to them is powerful: it’s not about where you are now, but where you can be. The ADD-Mentor Project was even crowned EFL Community Project of the Season, a testament to the life-changing work being done by the Robins Foundation.
Bishop Vivienne Faull, Diocese of Bristol
Bishop Viv’s warmth and commitment are immediately evident when you meet her. She lives her values, working tirelessly to create positive change, especially in the area of safeguarding. Her advocacy for survivors is unwavering, ensuring their voices are heard and central to the actions we take as a community. Her leadership reminds us all that our churches and communities must be places of true sanctuary.
I know that she has recently announced her retirement, and she leaves behind a legacy of remarkable work. Bishop Viv is an inspiration in her relentless pursuit of safety and justice for all.
Maya Mate-Kole, Mwanzo Project CIC
Maya is a force for change in Bristol. As the Director and Service Manager at Mwanzo Project CIC, she addresses the gaps in support for children and young people who find themselves at risk of offending, exploitation, and street conflict. Maya’s work is rooted in the community, and she gives a voice to those who might otherwise go unheard.
Her commitment to building a fair, equitable, and criminal justice system is evident in everything she does. Maya not only shows up through her work but also through her participation in countless initiatives aimed at creating meaningful change. She embodies what it means to dedicate your life to making a difference.
Irene Muthemba, Mother of Eddie Kinuthia
Irene’s strength and dignity in the face of unimaginable loss is something I will never forget. Her son, Eddie Kinuthia, was tragically killed in July 2023, and she has channelled her grief into a message of hope and love. At a memorial event held in Eddie’s honour, Irene spoke with such grace about her son’s life and the bright future he had ahead of him. Her words moved everyone in attendance and reminded us of the urgent need to address youth violence in our communities.
Irene’s courage and determination to honour Eddie’s memory by working towards a safer future for all young people are truly humbling. She stands as a beacon of hope, even in the darkest times.
These women are just a few of the countless individuals making a difference across Avon and Somerset. On International Women’s Day, I celebrate them and all the women who inspire us with their strength, compassion, and unwavering commitment to creating a better world, and while there is still so much work to do, we are surrounded by incredible people who show us the way forward.