By Annmarie Brown

Reflecting on our Inspire Her day at the Senedd.

On March 5th, the Senedd was buzzing with energy, passion, and a shared vision for the future as we hosted an Inspire Her session. This event, created in collaboration with the Senedd Women’s Caucus, was not just about politics, it was about possibility!

It was about showing young women from across Wales that their voices matter, their ambitions are valid, and that the path to leadership is one they can walk with confidence.

As a mother of two daughters, aged 7 and 14, this event resonated with me on a deeply personal level. I couldn’t help but think about the world I want them to grow up in; a world where they see strong, capable women leading, making decisions, and shaping the future. I want them to believe, without hesitation, that they belong in every room where power is held.

Inspire Her was a step towards that world.

Future leaders with MSs in a group standing in front of the main internal wooden pillar fro the Senedd, holding signs that speak of positive support for women standing for election and that it matters to get into elected office.

The event was designed to break down barriers and foster a space for meaningful engagement between future leaders and established political figures. Young women from across Wales, eager to learn about the intricacies of political life, came together to discuss their ambitions, ask questions, and seek guidance from the female MSs who have paved the way in the political sphere.

One of the most impactful elements of Inspire Her was the networking session, where young women had the brilliant opportunity to meet MSs face-to-face.

**This was no ordinary meet-and-greet!**

It was a genuine chance for the women to interact with MSs in Welsh politics on a personal level and engage in candid conversations about their journeys in politics. The networking session allowed them to ask pressing questions about the realities of political life.

What does it take to be a woman in leadership? What challenges do women face in the political arena? How can we overcome them? The stories shared by MSs highlighted the diverse pathways into politics and the importance of representation in decision-making spaces.

A key theme highlighted throughout the event was the importance of representation in decision-making spaces.

The MSs spoke passionately about how having women in positions of political power is crucial to creating a society where everyone’s voice is heard. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

When women are in the room, the conversations change. Policies become more inclusive. Decisions are made with a broader understanding of the communities they affect.

Seeing women in positions of power isn’t just inspiring, it’s necessary!

I watched as these young women absorbed every word and it reminded me of conversations I’ve had with my own daughters, those moments where they’ve started to imagine their futures, where they dream about the impact they might have. That’s why Inspire Her is so important. It’s about planting those seeds of confidence, ambition, and belief! As I reflect on the success of the day I’m filled with hope and excitement for the future of Welsh politics, and I look forward to seeing the future leaders of Wales rise and make their mark on the world!

To the MSs who took time out to support Inspire Her, thank you!

Your willingness to share your journeys, your advice, and engage with the next generation of leaders made this event truly special. Your presence was also a powerful reminder that politics is a space where women belong and can thrive.

And to every young woman who attended and engaged in meaningful discussions, your voices, ideas, and aspirations are needed. The energy you brought to the event was amazing, and I have no doubt that many of you will go on to make your mark. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

As I left the Senedd that day, I felt something powerful: hope. Hope that my daughters and all the young women who joined us will grow up knowing that leadership isn’t just for others, it’s for them too. I can’t wait to see what they do next.

Diolch yn fawr iawn i chi gyd!