News / By Fire Up / 25th February 2025
International Women's Day (IWD), celebrated annually on 8th March, is a global event that acknowledges the social, economic, cultural, and political accomplishments of women. This year, as we join in the global celebration of International Women’s Day 2025, we honour the achievements, resilience, and contributions of women worldwide.
The theme for this year, "Accelerate Action," highlights the urgency of taking decisive steps towards achieving gender equality. It calls for increased efforts in addressing the barriers and biases that women encounter in both personal and professional environments.
The day will be marked by numerous events and activities around the world, focusing on supporting women and girls, promoting gender equality, and fostering empowerment.
Celebrating Local Heroes
Here at Fire Up Rochdale, we are incredibly proud of the inspiring women who are a part of our community. From entrepreneurs and artists to educators and health workers, women in Rochdale are making waves in various fields. Let’s take a moment to celebrate a few of our local heroes:
Inspiring Women in Rochdale
Rochdale is home to many successful female entrepreneurs making a difference in their industries:
Jackie Kelly (Little Play Town Heywood) – Former pastoral officer who transitioned into entrepreneurship by opening a children’s role-play centre in Heywood, Rochdale after the pandemic. Combining her educational background and community insight, she created a joyful space for kids to play and parents to relax.
Issy McGlashen (NALA Creative) – The founder of NALA Creative, which specialises in branding, social media management, and web design services, has made significant strides with her creative studio based in Rochdale. NALA Creative will be flying the flag for Greater Manchester this year as they have been chosen to participate in the prestigious event South by Southwest (SXSW), supported by the GM Business Growth Hub. This is a fantastic opportunity for Issy and her team to connect with other creative minds and industry leaders. SXSW is renowned for its convergence of film, interactive media, and music, making it an ideal platform for NALA Creative to showcase its innovative work and forge new partnerships.
These women showcase the strength, innovation, and determination driving Rochdale’s business world.
Empowering the Next Generation
One of the core missions of International Women’s Day is to empower the next generation of female leaders. At Fire Up Rochdale, we are committed to providing resources and opportunities for women to thrive. Whether that be through mentorship programmes, workshops, or networking events, we strive to support and uplift our future female leaders.
Empowering women isn’t just about words, it’s about creating spaces where they can connect, grow, and thrive.
This March, take some time to celebrate International Women’s Day, join your community at Fire Up Rochdale for a powerful women’s networking event designed to support and inspire female entrepreneurs.
Don’t miss out on our event below:
Discover Your Purpose 101: A Women’s Workshop & Networking Experience
Are you a woman living or working in Rochdale or the surrounding area? Thinking about starting a business, just getting started, or already leading a female-run venture? If so, this event is for you!
Join us for Discover Your Purpose 101, an empowering in-person workshop and networking event designed to help female entrepreneurs gain clarity, build confidence, and connect with like-minded women on the same journey.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:
- How to align your business with your deeper purpose for long-term success
- The key to making confident decisions—so you stop second-guessing yourself
- How to cut through the noise and focus on what truly moves you forward
- Practical strategies to stay motivated, driven, and clear on your next steps
WHY ATTEND?
More than just a workshop, this is a networking experience where you’ll connect with like-minded women navigating similar challenges—balancing life, business, and personal growth. Share experiences, exchange ideas, and build a strong, supportive community that understands what it takes to turn ambition into action.
YOUR GUEST SPEAKER:
Toni Eastwood OBE – Award-winning business mentor, leader, and founder, dedicated to helping female entrepreneurs’ step into their purpose and lead with impact.
EVENT DETAILS:
- Date: 11th March 2025
- Time: 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
- Location: Fire-up Co-working Space, Fire Station Yard, Maclure Road, Rochdale, OL11 1DN
It’s time to lead with purpose, take control, and build the business (and life) you truly want. Let’s make it happen.
Book your place below👇
Together, let's celebrate the incredible women in our community and beyond, and continue to accelerate action for a brighter future.