International Women’s Day Afternoon Tea
The International Women’s Day Afternoon Tea at the New Pioneers Community Café was created to honour women from Rochdale’s diverse communities and open up space for honest conversations about domestic abuse, healing, and community support. Organised on March 8th, this special gathering brought together women from various cultural and ethnic backgrounds to share experiences, support one another, and break the silence around topics that are often hidden behind closed doors.
The aim was not only to celebrate International Women’s Day, but to empower women to speak up, encourage mutual understanding, and create a sense of togetherness across cultures. Many attendees were from migrant and refugee families, and the event was designed with inclusivity, dignity, and emotional safety at its heart.
What Happened
The event took place at Spotland Community Centre, which was beautifully set for Afternoon Tea with tables decorated with flowers and international treats. Women from Libya, Morocco, Egypt, Pakistan, Poland, Lithuania, Syria, and the UK gathered together – many meeting for the first time, yet instantly connecting over shared experiences.
The central theme of the day was surviving and moving on from domestic abuse. The main speaker, Councillor Amber Nisa, delivered a powerful and heartfelt message about the importance of recognising abuse, finding strength to leave negative relationships, and the vital role of community support in the healing process. Her personal reflections resonated with many in the room, offering encouragement and hope. Guest speaker Lilly Bell, from Watering Your Soul, led a discussion around emotional wellbeing, self-worth, and how women can support each other through trauma. She encouraged participants to look after their mental health and celebrate even the smallest victories on the path to recovery. Local artist Rose Stanisauskis added a creative dimension by sharing how art can serve as a tool for self-expression and empowerment, especially for women who may struggle to find words for their experiences.
But what made the event especially powerful was the atmosphere of warmth and shared humanity. While the topic was serious and at times emotional, the mood was uplifting and comforting. Women laughed, cried, hugged, and most importantly – listened to each other without judgement. It was a rare opportunity for many to feel heard, seen, and supported.
This event had a clear and lasting impact. Many attendees spoke of feeling deeply moved and empowered, with several saying it was the first time they had opened up about their experiences. Others expressed how comforting it was to hear from women who had been through similar challenges and found the strength to rebuild their lives. Attendees left the event feeling less alone, more confident, and connected to a wider community of women who understand and support them. Some women have since joined regular activities at the centre and even volunteered to support future events.
The volunteer team, made up of women from diverse backgrounds, played an essential role. They cooked, decorated, welcomed guests, and made sure
everyone felt at home. Their hospitality – rooted in cultural pride and care – made the afternoon not just meaningful but memorable. The food itself became a symbol of shared culture and unity, with every bite offering comfort and connection.
This project stands out not only for the important topic it addressed, but for the genuine community-led approach and the safe space it created. It empowered women by validating their stories, building friendships, and showing that healing is possible – especially when surrounded by kindness, cultural understanding, and support.
By creating a space where women from different backgrounds could share tea, stories, and strength, the event embodied the true spirit of Empowering Diverse Groups. It turned International Women’s Day into more than a celebration – it became a moment of real change, compassion, and collective courage.
