On Friday 7th March, The Two Counties Trust hosted its third annual International Women’s Day event, bringing together students, staff and female business leaders to celebrate women’s achievements and share powerful stories.
The day began with a powerful talk from three remarkable women from Force Atlantic, the British Army’s first all-female team to row unsupported across the Atlantic Ocean. Captain Imy O’Brien, Warrant Officer Sheridan Lucas MBE and Major Becca Glover shared their incredible journey of rowing 3,000 miles in the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge, known as the world’s toughest row. Taking 46 days and 55 minutes to complete, their story was filled with moments of courage, teamwork and unbelievable resilience.
The entire audience was captivated with their stories of preparation, determination and the realities of life at sea, the team recounted encounters with sharks, physical and mental exhaustion and how they supported each other through seemingly unbeatable challenges. Their honesty and sense of humour made the talk both engaging and deeply inspiring, leaving students and staff alike in awe.
The following Q&A session saw unprecedented participation, with students, staff and guests eagerly posing questions about the team’s mindset, training and how they coped with difficult situations particularly their mental health. The enthusiasm was wonderful to see, the line for further questions stretched over halfway down the room.
After the talk, students had the chance to network with staff and female business leaders from various industries, discussing career paths, overcoming obstacles and personal experiences as women in the workforce. The Derbyshire Police and Crime Commissioner was in attendance alongside representatives from Siemens, Galliford Try and the University of Lincoln to name but a few.
Conversations spilled over into a networking lunch, allowing for a more informal discussions and some delicious food. It also allowed for everyone to reflect on the morning’s inspiring talk and meaningful conversations.
The afternoon session featured a workshop led by Sarah Bailey, Executive Headteacher at The Two Counties Trust. The workshop encouraged students to consider what it means to be a strong woman in 2025 and to think about the values they want to uphold and be remembered for. It truly was an inspiring day of learning and empowered, and arguably our #BestYet!
Students across the Trust expressed their enthusiasm for the event:
Swanwick Hall student:
” This event was really inspiring to me, being able to know the journey of four brave and resilient women from the British Army. I find their story fascinating and so empowering and I’m sure many other women and girls at this event did too. I really felt an embrace of support that filled the room from discussions of each other’s successes and achievements that really highlighted the importance of International Women’s Day. P.S The food was also really good!”
Frederick Gent students:
“I am a Cadet so the army team were really inspirational to me, I would say they are my role models”
“The day made me reflect about how I should push myself out of my comfort zone more. The day was amazing!”
Friesland students:
“I enjoyed speaking to Ellie who oversees Health and Safety on some construction sites. She taught us that sometimes we have to be assertive and thorough, so our voices are heard.”
“The Force Atlantic women were so inspirational and motivating. The challenges they faced and the ways they overcame them. This proved to me that women can do anything men can do.”
