WOMEN from across the region celebrated their success at a graduation event, picking up their Institute of Leadership and Management certificates and hearing from an inspirational female leader.

Ann Griffith, Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner spoke to graduates about her career path in employment and politics, barriers she has faced along the way and how she aims to support women in her current role.

The ILM qualification forms part of Chwarae Teg’s Agile Nation 2 programme funded by the European Social Fund and Welsh Government.

The project is a unique and inspirational initiative which helps working women develop knowledge, confidence and skills for team leading or managerial roles. The team at Chwarae Teg provide expert coaching, mentoring and accredited training designed to empower women to reach their potential.

At the event, which took place at the Chwarae Teg offices in Colwyn Bay, Rina Evans, Senior Development Partner at Chwarae Teg, said: “This event is a celebration of the women who have participated in the career development programme. We are hugely proud of their achievements as they have not only gained key leadership skills valued by employers but also developed the confidence and motivation to achieve and prosper in the workplace.

“To date thousands of women have taken part in Wales and achieved pay rises totalling over £1.6million so I’d definitely urge other women to sign up for future programmes!”

Ann Griffith, Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner said: “It’s an honour to be able to speak to graduates and share my own story with such inspirational women.

"Chwarae Teg’s programme and ILM qualification really does give women the chance to grow and newly developed confidence and leadership skills, which are vital as we work towards ensuring that women are equally represented at all levels of society and the economy.”

Women interested in joining the programme should visit www.agilenation2.org.uk/for-women for further information and eligibility details.