Drogheda Institute of Further Education united with women across the globe in the celebration of International Women’s Day last Wednesday.

The theme of this year’s campaign was #EmbraceEquity and students and staff came together to discuss women’s health and wellbeing and to increase awareness on issues such as gender equality and violence against women.  

Guest speakers included Shirli Muldoon of Vitality Vibe who spoke about practical women’s wellness habits and embracing female empowerment. Orla Haran, Coach and Education Executive at the Football Association of Ireland discussed what it is like to be a woman in sport.  

In attendance on the day were staff and volunteers from organisations such as Drogheda Women’s Refuge Centre, Dundalk Women’s Aid and Development Perspectives, who provided information on the services they offer.

Self defence trainer Philip Smith advised DIFE’s female students on the importance of learning how to protect themselves and demonstrated techniques women can use to defend themselves if threatened by a physical assault.   

The highlight of the day was a visit to DIFE from Drogheda born actress and comedian Deirdre O’Kane who spoke candidly about the complexities of being a female comedian in a male dominated arena.  

Deirdre talked about the powerful and inspirational women she knew growing up in Drogheda and also spoke movingly about the overwhelming impact Christina Noble has had on her with the dedication she brings to improving the lives of vulnerable children. She said she had learned valuable life lessons while working closely with Christina Noble in the making of the 2014 film Noble.  

An enjoyable and enlightening day was spent with students and staff collectively embracing equity, everyone was encouraged to wear purple on the day, a colour which signifies justice and dignity.

DIFE played its part on International Women’s Day by providing a platform to promote positive change and the empowerment of women.