Cultúr celebrates International Women's Day

Women from across Meath and beyond gathered today at Navan O’Mahonys GAA Club for a vibrant and inspiring celebration of International Women’s Day, hosted by Cultúr Migrant Centre.

The event, themed “Give to Gain – Giving is not subtraction, it is intentional multiplication,” brought together diverse generations, cultures and nationalities in a shared space of reflection, empowerment and action.

The programme was expertly hosted by Susan Mkhabela, Community Worker at Cultúr Migrant Centre, who set a warm and engaging tone for the day, but warned us to be prepared to be inspired.

In her welcome address, the CEO Ms Tinu Achioya, spoke passionately about the impact of the theme and the many ways women embody it daily. She emphasised that giving extends far beyond financial contributions. “Women give in so many ways, through their time, their energy, their finances and in countless other forms. Giving is not subtraction; it is intentional multiplication,” she said, highlighting how women’s contributions strengthen families, communities and society as a whole.

The keynote address by Marina Cunningham, Manager of Meath Travellers Workshop, set a powerful foundation for the day. She spoke candidly about the life of women and the constant nature of giving, sharing her own journey of returning to education at an advanced age. Her story of resilience and determination resonated strongly with attendees and set the tone for a day centred on courage and growth.

Durkhanai Khan moved the audience with her reflection on how art became her voice at a time when she felt she did not have one. Peace Temilade Ayoola followed with insights into integration as a young woman, acknowledging the support and mentorship she has received from more experienced women in her community.

Linda Mackey of Meath Partnership delivered an engaging and interactive session, inviting participants to reflect on the women who have impacted their lives. Through simple but meaningful activities, attendees expressed gratitude and shared messages of appreciation for the women who shaped their journeys. Seun Grace Atiroko brought energy and encouragement with her talk on thriving as a mother and active community worker, leaving the audience with a strong message on the importance of women supporting one another and getting your own table when not invited to one.

The celebration also featured a moving musical performance by Dariia Kinzhibala, followed by a presentation from the Cultúr Women’s Group. A particularly emotional moment came during “A Voice of Hope and Courage” by Lina Akilanaite, who shared how Cultúr Migrant Centre has helped her find and express her voice. In a touching gesture of appreciation, she presented Ms Achioya with a bouquet of roses in recognition of the freedom and support she has experienced through the organisation.

Mrs Carolyn Solanke, a Cultúr Board Member, also addressed the gathering, outlining the ongoing work of Cultúr Migrant Centre and commending the speakers and the Cultúr team for delivering such an impactful and well-organised event. The formal presentations concluded with “A Journey of Resilience, Identity and Courage” by Dr Khadija Said Majid, who spoke warmly about her experiences within the community, the encouragement she has received from women around her, and acknowledged the all-round support she’s getting.

The event closed with a strong Call to Action, as attendees committed to practical “Give and Gain” actions they would carry forward in their own lives and communities.

The celebration was a powerful reminder that when women give, whether through mentorship, creativity, leadership or simple acts of support, the gains ripple far beyond the individual. In Navan, that spirit of intentional multiplication was clearly alive.

Cultur wants to say a big thank you to all their allies, partners, agencies and service providers who shared the inspiring day with the International Women.