BBC SPRINGWATCH presenter Gillian Burke leads an impressive line-up of successful South West women speaking at an International Women’s Day event hosted by the Cornwall Women’s Fund (CWF).

Sustainable fashion entrepreneur Uzma Bozai will showcase her designs during the celebration at The Heseltine Gallery, Truro School on Saturday, March 8 from 11am to 2pm.

Music equality champion Vick Bain, founder of the F List directory of female musicians, and international marketing director and novelist Genevieve Flintham will also share their experiences in the hope of inspiring others.

This year’s IWD theme is Accelerate Action. Uzma said she feels more fulfilled when surrounded by other accomplished women: “We’re stronger together.”

Of the IWD fashion show, she said: “Through each look, we hope to highlight the strength and beauty of the girls and women of Cornwall, excelling in their fields, breaking down barriers for future generations and inspiring us all to be bolder and braver.”

Genevieve, who started at the bottom of the marketing industry ladder, said: “As someone who comes from the South West, I’ve always been passionate about ensuring that girls and women can succeed in an industry which hasn’t always been equal. We are no longer in a world where London is king; the playing field has equalled, and it’s time to grasp the opportunities.”

CWF has raised over £65,000 and distributed 22 grants to projects and organisations including Cornwall Music Service Trust’s workshops for new mothers and babies in Camborne and Truro.

Founding member Amanda Stratford said: “We work together as a collective to give our time, skills and money to improve the lives and nurture the ambitions of women and girls living in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

Tickets are free and can be booked via Ticket Tailor. Find out more at www.cornwallwomensfund.co.uk