The University of Chester will kick off International Women's Day with a free online panel discussion.

On Wednesday 5 March from 4pm to 5pm, students and staff will take part in an online discussion about 'Nurturing Women's Ambitions'.

The group will talk about systemic barriers to women's progression in careers and leadership roles, the importance of intersectionality when understanding these barriers, and the role of mentoring, allies and role models.  

The discussion will feature three inspirational panelists from the University: Angie Standish, Toyosi Oyinloye and Hussna Waka.

The panel will be interviewed by professor Hannah Bacon, professor of Feminist Theology and Kathryn Leighton, the university's Diversity Festival co-ordinator. 

On Tuesday 11 March from 9.30am to 1.30pm, the university's institute of gender studies will host an event emphasising the importance of taking swift and decisive steps to achieve gender equality.

'Accelerating Action' will take place in the Riverside Innovation Centre on Castle Drive.

It will call for increased momentum and urgency in addressing the systemic barriers and biases that women face, both in personal and professional spheres. 

Admission is free and tickets can be booked here.  

The University of Chester's Diversity Festival is now in its 20th year.

It offers a mix of face-to-face, hybrid and online events focusing on equality, diversity, inclusion and belonging. 

Kathryn Leighton, the university's Diversity Festival co-ordinator, said: "These events are open to everyone, regardless of gender.

"We hope attendees will feel inspired and motivated after these events and thank you to everyone who is taking part."