Re-imagining women's opportunities in academia - IWD 2026 creative workshop

Because your story deserves to be told

Join us for a transformative International Women's Day celebration that's unlike any event you have attended before. This isn't about sitting through presentations or performing professionalism, it is about being human, getting creative and connecting authentically with others who understand what it means to navigate spaces that weren't built with us in mind.

This event is different because we do things differently!

Instead of another panel discussion, we are creating a safe and supportive space where women (and allies) can share their stories through Lego building, art, poetry and authentic conversation.

Why Lego and art?

Because sometimes the most profound truths can't be spoken, they have to be built, coloured and shaped by hands that know what it feels like to overcome barriers, create opportunities and reimagine what's possible.

IWD 2026 matters!

International Women's Day celebrates women globally, their achievements, resilience and contributions to our communities. At Northumbria University, we beautifully reflect this diversity, bringing together women from across the world, each carrying unique stories, perspectives and lived experiences.

This year, instead of simply marking the day, we are creating the kind of space IWD truly calls for, where women's voices from all backgrounds are heard, celebrated and valued. Where we honour not just the challenges we have faced but the strength that got us through them. Where we build the connections and communities that create lasting change.

At Northumbria University, we are creating a space where IWD isn’t just acknowledged, it is felt.

Your story matters. Your journey deserves to be celebrated. This International Women's Day, you belong here. Register now and be part of how we are marking IWD 2026 boldly, creatively and together.

This event is made possible through:

- VC Diversity and Inclusion Fund at Northumbria University and a big thank you to the EDI team

- Northumbria Women's Staff Network

- The courage of everyone willing to do things differently

This event welcomes women and allies from across Newcastle and beyond, all genders and all career levels. Whether you work in Higher education (academic or professional staff), local government or public services, community organisations, professional services or any sector where you have navigated spaces that weren't built with you in mind.

This space is for you.

Info: Learn about the event's agenda and meet participants in a warm and inclusive atmosphere.

Info: Draw your journey using art materials to represent your experiences, challenges, triumphs or vision for more equitable futures.
Build with Lego and construct physical representations of your story, maybe the barriers you have overcome, the support systems that kept you going or something aspirational for women's futures.
Write poetry or reflections and express what words alone sometimes can't capture.

All Lego and art materials provided. No artistic experience needed. Just bring your authentic self!

Info: Enjoy lunch while continuing conversations.
View others' creative works (with their permission) and vote for the best art and best lego.
Build connections that extend beyond the room.

Info: Share your creations in small focus groups and discuss questions like:
- Are opportunities for women truly accessible to all?
- How can challenges transform into opportunities for growth and empowerment?

Info: Collective reflections and insights and recognition awards for creative contributions (Best Lego Creation and Best Artistic Creation)

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher Northumbria University/Northumbria Women's Network