Bangor University will mark this year’s International Women’s Day with a special panel discussion bringing together four influential women whose work spans conservation, poetry, healthcare innovation and international development.

The event will take place on Wednesday, 11 March from 6pm to 7.30pm at the Eric Sunderland Lecture Theatre in the Main Arts Building on the university’s Bangor campus. The discussion, titled “Resilience and Collaboration,” will explore how perseverance, creativity and partnership can drive meaningful change in communities around the world.

The panel will feature four speakers who have made significant contributions in their respective fields:

  • Hanan Issa, a Welsh-Iraqi poet, filmmaker and scriptwriter who currently serves as the National Poet of Wales and became the first Muslim to hold the title.

  • Salamatu Jidda Fada, an educator and conservation and climate action specialist dedicated to advancing the rights and wellbeing of women and girls.

  • Elin Haf Davies, founder of digital health company Aparito, which was established to digitise clinical trials for life-limiting diseases. Davies is also known for rowing and sailing across the world’s oceans.

  • Julia Jones, Professor of Conservation Science at Bangor University whose research focuses on improving the effectiveness of nature conservation policy and practice.

Two of the speakers — Hanan Issa and Salamatu Jidda Fada — are also honorary degree recipients of Bangor University.

Speaking ahead of the event, Dr Salamatu Jidda Fada said she was honoured to take part in the university’s celebration.

She said:

“I am truly honoured to be part of Bangor University’s International Women’s Day celebration. This year’s theme, ‘resilience and collaboration’, resonates deeply with me because it reflects the spirit of women whose strength and generosity uplift entire communities.”

She added that she is inspired by the achievements of women from North Wales to Northern Nigeria, while recognising that there is still more work to be done.

The discussion will be moderated by Enlli Thomas, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Welsh Language, Culture and the Region.

Professor Thomas said the panel brings together “four extraordinary women whose work spans different disciplines and geographies”.

“Their experiences remind us of the power of perseverance, creativity and partnership to drive meaningful change,” she said.

The event forms part of Bangor University’s wider celebrations recognising the achievements and contributions of women both locally and globally.

Attendance is free, but registration is required.

More information and registration details are available on the Bangor University events page.