Posted on: Thursday 14 December 2023
A charity has been overwhelmed with support following Torfaen Council's Women in Business evening last month.
Cyfannol Women's Aid has received offers of help following the event, such as free dental treatment for abuse survivors at Sparkle Dental Centre, complementary children's clothes from Wet Wednesdays and free workshops from Creative Crafts with Bernadette.
More than £1,500 was also raised for the charity through ticket sales and raffle prizes.
Amy Bushell, fundraising manager at Cynfannol, said: "Being at the Torfaen Women in Business event was a wonderful opportunity. I have never seen such a response to a raffle! The amount of raffle tickets bought will make a meaningful difference to those who need it most.
"What was also truly overwhelming was the outpouring of additional services offered to those we support. The women there went out of their way to tell us about the products and services they could provide for our community."
Councillor Joanne Gauden, Executive Member for Economy, Skills and Regeneration, said: "I am so pleased the event raised money for such a worthwhile charity but to hear they have also benefited from the networking opportunities on offer is fantastic.
"It goes to show what can happen when you bring a group of like-minded supportive women together."
More than 100 businesswomen and entrepreneurs attended the Women in Business event, at the Parkway Hotel, in Cwmbran, organised by the Business Engagement Team and funded by the UK Government's Shared Prosperity Fund.
Among the speakers were Kelli Aspland and Laura Waters from Solar Buddies, based in Cwmbran, and former Eden Project Managing Director Gaynor Coley, from Cwmbran.
To find out about next year's event, or to find out how Torfaen Council can support your business, visit Torfaen Business Direct. You can also contact the team on businessdirect@torfaen.gov.uk.
Photo left to right: Amy Bushall, Councillor Joanne Gauden, Kate Blewitt, Business Engagement Team