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Creating positive footprints

Summer Soirée

We enjoyed a delightful summer soirée as members mingled for the final event of the season. The usual splendid Pink Shoe buffet was accompanied by Pimms and Prosseco in abundance.






 



Public Appointments Reception at National Portrait Gallery

As part of Pink Shoe's activities to get more women into public life a number of ambassadors and members attended a reception organized by the Cabinet Office and DCMS at the National Portrait Gallery.







We first heard from Francis Maude about the Government’s commitment to achieving 50% female appointments – an aspiration it is ever closer to achieving. 




Then Secretary of State for Culture Media & Sport Sajid Javid spoke eloquently of the many benefits of taking up a public appointment and the wide variety of roles available. 


Many women present were already in such roles and members were able to gain a realistic insight into the process of application as well as the appointment itself. 

As part of the event guests were also able to view the galleries, which was a real treat, including 'Virginia Woolf: Art, Life and Vision' which is highly recommended (until 26th October).

The evening was useful and enjoyable and great connections were made. These receptions are an excellent opportunity for those considering their first appointment and work well alongside the Pink Shoe 'Women in Public Life' Shadowing Scheme. Especially as recruitment will soon be underway for the next programme. 


For details of how to get involved and apply for a place on the next shadowing scheme beginning in early 2015 please email Programme Director Vanda Green: Vanda@pinkshoeclub.com 

Summer Fayre in Westminster Hall

For the first time a Summer Fayre was held in Westminster Hall with stalls selling branded gifts and sampling tradtional English cider along with delicious new food products which are being sold in the newly created and very smart House of Commons Gift shop. 


It was great fun to see the Morris Dancers in full flow – a contrast to the usual more sedate happenings!

State Opening of Parliament

Ascot hats were the order of the day when Pink Shoe Club Ambassadors met for drinks to view the State Opening procession and arrival of the Queen before enjoying a splendid lunch in the House of Commons. 

Women in Public Life

The first cohort of the Women in Public Life programme have successfully completed their final session.

Pictured here with Programme Director Vanda Green.

The feedback from all involved has been excellent. Recruitment will begin in early autumn for the full programme which starts in early 2015.


Tête-à-Têtes with Kate Barker CBE

It was literally standing room only for an absorbing Tête-à-Têtes Afternoon Tea with Kate Barker CBE in conversation with Jill Pay. 

First we heard all about Parliament being 'Prorogued' as Jill explained the history and protocols leading up to the State Opening of Parliament. 




Kate then led us through a very personal career history, explaining exactly what is involved leading two major Government Reviews. Jill's questions really hit the spot and covered all the topics we most wanted to hear about and giving a behind-the-scenes insight into the Bank of England's Monetary Policy Committee.


We also heard some of Kate's Top Tips for career success, which resonated very well with guests. They include: 'be open to opportunities' 'form alliances with others'  and 'have confidence in your transferable skills'

Great advice from the highly successful and refreshingly down to earth Kate Barker CBE.


Pink Shoe's 7th Birthday!


It’s hard to believe that Pink Shoe Club is now 7 years old! 

At the House of Commons, guests sparkled as much as the wine and the evening was said  by several members and guests to be the best party ever! 

There was much to celebrate with the launch of the Pink Shoe Foundation and the awesome Pink Shoe Senate. 

Celebrations were held in our usual style with fabulous guests, stunning food and the ubiquitous pink fizz.

All agreed that not only has a huge amount already been achieved, there is much more to come.