Residents from across Tameside gathered at Dukinfield Town Hall for a vibrant Cultural Afternoon Tea to mark International Women’s Day, raising hundreds of pounds for charity while celebrating diversity and community spirit.
Organised by Cllr Taf Sharif, Tameside Council’s Lead for Equalities, and Noreen Shahzad, founder of the Umeed Women’s Group,the event brought together people from a wide range of backgrounds for an afternoon filled with inspiration, connection, food and laughter. The celebration was held in support of the Mayor of Tameside, Cllr Shibley Alam, and her chosen charities.
The event, delivered with support from Noreen Shahzad and the UMEED Community Women’s Group, created a welcoming space where attendees could come together, share experiences and uplift one another.
A total of £555 was raised on the day, which will be donated to Willow Wood Hospice, Hyde Welfare and the Women’s Institute for The Christie’s.
Guests also heard from a line-up of inspirational speakers, including Cllr Eleanor Wills, Leader of Tameside Council, Pauline Town of We Shall Overcome, Kay Baig – who established the first South Asian female team for Lancashire Cricket Club – and Deborah Brown of WISH, who supports children facing bereavement, divorce and other challenges.

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