Celebrating International Women's Day 2023
On Wednesday 8th March over 100 people came together at Burnt Oak Leisure Centre for a fun filled morning to celebrate International Women’s Day 2023 in partnership with Fit and Active Barnet (FAB). International Women's Day is celebrated annually on March 8 as a focal point in the women's rights movement, bringing attention to issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and violence and abuse against women. The theme of IWD 2023 was #EmbraceEquity, a campaign which aims to get the world talking about why equal opportunities aren't enough. People start from different places, so true inclusion and belonging require equitable action.
Attendees were treated to a jive performance from a group of residents, followed by an inspirational wellbeing talk from Maria Goddard (Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust) who spoke about the enormous benefits of physical activity on our health and wellbeing. A beautiful Bollywood inspired dance performance then got everyone in the mood to try their hand at a range of physical activity taster sessions including an invigorating chair-based exercise session, Bollywood dancing, Pilates, Boxercise and a carnival inspired Soca dancing. The morning then concluded with an energetic spinning session.
In addition to the taster sessions, information stalls were available from several partners across the borough including Banet Nightingales Football Club, NHS Smoking Cessation, Community Barnet, Colindale Community Trust, Better Leisure, Groundswell World, Inclusion Barnet, Health Watch Barnet, Age UK Barnet, New Citizens Gateway and Meridian Wellbeing.
Regardless of age or ability, all attendees were up on their feet and participating in the taster sessions including the Lord Mayor of Barnet, Councillor Alison Moore. It was warming to see so many smiles around the room and made us remember the impact that being physically active has on our emotional wellbeing as well as our physical health.
We’d like to extend our thanks to Fit and Active Barnet (FAB) for organising such an amazing event in our centre, and to all our community partners for their support and contributions.
For more information on Fit and Active Barnet (FAB)