Chamber Celebrates International Women’s Day with Inspiring Accelerate Action Event 

In recognition of International Women’s Day 2025, Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber successfully hosted an impactful event championing this year’s global theme; Accelerate Action. The event, sponsored by AESSEAL, called for greater momentum in strategies, resources, and activities that advance gender equality. 

Held on 7^th March at the AESSEAL New York Stadium in Rotherham, the event brought together businesswomen, advocates and guests to discuss and drive forward actionable change for businesses in South Yorkshire and how this can positively impact women in the workplace. The event was hosted by Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber Vice President, Mark Smith, a well-respected voice in leadership development and business training. Opened by YWCA Yorkshire, with their rendition of Sunflowers, voiced by Nicole Cannon and written by Rachel Bower as part of the YWCA Listening Project, the poem was a powerful performance, conveying the voice of women which often goes unheard.  

Former Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber President, Lisa Pogson, paid a heartfelt tribute to Dame Julie Kenny DBE DL following her recent passing, reflecting on the profound impact she had on her own career and the wider Rotherham business community. Lisa shared how Dame Julie’s guidance and unwavering encouragement played a pivotal role in her decision to step forward for the Chamber President role, a position Julie herself had once held at Rotherham Chamber.  

She recalled how Julie’s tenacious spirit, resilience, and determination made her an inspiring businesswoman and friend—someone who never shied away from a challenge and always championed those around her. Lisa credited Julie for not only offering support but for instilling the confidence to break barriers and strive for greater achievements.  

Attendees had the opportunity to hear from an exceptional line-up of speakers who have championed progress in their respective organisations. The keynote speaker, Lindsy James, Founder & Director of Active Fusion, shared her 25-year journey in youth development and sports. Recognised with the King’s Award for Voluntary Service, Lindsy’s dedication to improving young people’s wellbeing has had a profound impact in South Yorkshire. As a competitive duathlete and triathlete, Lindsy gave a talk on the themes of compassion, the role of potential and her passion for sport and the impact this has had on her career and overcoming obstacles in her personal life. 

Onto the panel of local businesses, guests were able to hear from leaders in local businesses including Ava Jones, Head of Marketing & Executive Assistant to the Group Managing Director at AESSEAL, who discussed her career progression from apprentice to leadership highlighting AESSEAL’s commitment to sustainability, continuous improvement, and workforce diversification. Ava was joined by Karen Thomas, Finance Director at ASD Holdings Ltd & Rotherham United Football Club, who spoke about the strategies required to operate in both manufacturing and professional sports and the key role women have played in these industries. Finally, Ken Perritt, Senior Director at GXO Logistics, brought his expertise in logistics and supply chain management, discussing workforce development and GXO’s vision for the future in this field. 

This year’s International Women’s Day campaign emphasised that while gender equality still faces challenges, progress is achievable through swift, decisive action and widespread support. The event explored successful strategies making a difference today, inspiring attendees to implement similar approaches within their own organisations and communities. 

The event received overwhelming support from attendees, who praised the engaging discussions, thought-provoking insights, and valuable networking opportunities. Many left with a renewed commitment to accelerating gender equality in their own workplaces and industries. 

Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce would like to thank all speakers, panellists, and attendees who contributed to making this event a resounding success. 

For more information on Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber visit www.brchamber.co.uk or contact [email protected]