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Rotary supports Strictly Democracy

Rotary supports Strictly Democracy

Rotary in London led the way on the metaphorical democratic dancefloor when it hosted an unique event highlighting the contribution of five highly skilled and innovative women. Strictly Democracy, part of the British Federation of Women Graduates Houses of Parliament Week, provided a platform for rising stars from science and research backgrounds. Lottie Birdsall-Strong, studying gender divide […]

Rotary in London led the way on the metaphorical democratic dancefloor when it hosted an unique event highlighting the contribution of five highly skilled and innovative women. Strictly Democracy, part of the British Federation of Women Graduates Houses of Parliament Week, provided a platform for rising stars from science and research backgrounds. Lottie Birdsall-Strong, studying gender divide in sport, Alison Baum, CEO and foudner of Best Beginnings, Madeleine Harris, policy and advocacy officer for the Alcohol Health Alliance, Dr Lucy Thorne, reseaching a cure for norovirus, and Benita Matofska, creator of social movement People Who Share each had just five minutes to explain how their work is having a positive impact on society and why democracy plays a role.

In true ‘strictly’ style, the panel of judges, which included Rotary in Great Britain & Ireland Vice-President Elect Eve Conway, held up numbers to grade the presentations. Eve said: “All these ladies are amazingly inspirational and it is great to have this event for young women. It is important that we in Rotary and the world over recognises the achievement women are making. As the first female District Governor for London and as the second upcoming female Rotary in Great Britain & Ireland President I believe it is important to emphasise and acknowledge how women and their work are changing the world. It has been very difficult to choose a winner. I am delighted to be involved with this event.”

Never a truer word was spoken as the decision came down to a tense tie-breaker between Alison Baum, CEO and founder of Best Beginnings, a charity which offers practical support to young parents across the UK, and Dr Lucy Thorne, a dedicated researcher trying to find a cure for norovirus whilst also acting as an ambassador for careers in science. Each had to summarise their reasons for being worthy of the title in just one minute. After much deliberation by the judges Alison Baum was crowned champion.

An elated Alison described how she felt about her win: “I am over the moon! All the competitors here are amazing women and I am very inspired by all of them.”

 

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