Celebrating community, creativity and connection on International Women’s Day

A Celebration of empowerment and inclusion

At Firstsite, we are passionate about supporting events that strengthen community connections, and Women Assemble’s commitment to creating spaces where everyone feels they belong aligns closely with our own values.

This year’s event explored the theme of “Give to Gain”, sparking thoughtful conversations around the experiences of women, the value of community support and the power of shared understanding.

Alongside discussions and networking opportunities, attendees enjoyed art and craft activities, dance sessions and family-friendly experiences designed to bring people together.

The event also welcomed a number of inspiring speakers, including Firstsite Director Sally Shaw and local MP Pam Cox, whose contributions added further insight and inspiration to the day’s programme.

“We were deliberate in creating a space where everyone felt they belonged. Women shared their concerns openly, men listened and contributed meaningfully, and children and families engaged with activities designed to bring people together. The result was a space that truly reflected the community we serve.”

Flexible spaces for meaningful events

Creating an event that feels welcoming and accessible to a diverse audience requires a venue that can adapt to different needs.

For Women Assemble, Firstsite’s flexible spaces played an important role in helping the event grow and evolve.

“One of the things that makes Firstsite most suitable is the flexibility of the space. Indoors, the layout is thoughtfully designed and versatile. If you are hosting over 100 guests, you will find yourself spoilt for choice when it comes to selecting the right room.

If an event is oversubscribed, the mosaic space and foyer offer additional options without any compromise on atmosphere.”

A partnership built on trust

Alongside the flexibility of the venue itself, Women Assemble highlighted the value of the support provided by the Firstsite team throughout the planning process.

“We know the staff, we know who to contact for what, and we feel completely at home within the building. Whenever we begin planning an event, Firstsite is always our first call.”

“The support starts from the very first conversation. At the booking stage, organisers are invited to specify exactly how they would like the space laid out, which means that on the event day, the room is ready and waiting. There is no scrambling with furniture or losing precious set up time, everything is in place so that you can focus on the event.”

Where creativity and community connect

One of the most powerful aspects of hosting community events at Firstsite is the opportunity for visitors to engage with the wider cultural programme taking place throughout the building.

During International Women’s Day, attendees were able to experience a rich mix of activity, including Sue Webster’s exhibition, The Birth of an Icon, alongside a body positivity event taking place elsewhere in the venue.

“The connection was particularly alive during this year’s International Women’s Day. Running alongside our event was Sue Webster’s exhibition, The Birth of an Icon – a powerful theme that resonated deeply with the themes of women’s identity, visibility and self-expression.

All three events complemented each another. Guests attending the exhibition or the body positivity event could easily step into ours, and our attendees were encouraged to explore what else the building had to offer. It created a richer, fuller experience for everyone.”

Lasting impact beyond the event

For Women Assemble, the lasting impact of the event goes beyond the activities and discussions that took place on the day. It is reflected in the relationships formed, the conversations continued and the sense of belonging created within the community.

“Women arrived not knowing each other and left as friends. Conversations that started in the room continued long after the day had ended, spilling out into the community.”

Reflecting on what makes the event so special, Women Assemble highlighted the unscripted moments of connection that emerge when people come together with a shared purpose.

“It would be the support, women championing one another without hesitation, offering advice, sharing experiences, and simply showing up for each other in the way that only women who truly understand one another can.

And it would be the connections formed. Not just the exchange of contacts, but the genuine connection where two people realise they have been looking for each other without knowing it.”

We’re proud to continue supporting Women Assemble as they create opportunities for connection, celebration and positive community impact across Colchester.

Their International Women’s Day event demonstrates the power of bringing people together in a welcoming and inspiring environment, and we’re delighted that Firstsite can play a role in helping those moments happen.

Looking to host a community event, conference, celebration or networking gathering?

Discover how Firstsite’s flexible spaces and experienced events team can help bring your vision to life.