Round-up of the WI’s week at the 2023 Royal Welsh Show
Our stand at the 2023 Royal Welsh Show was hosted by Glamorgan Federation.
Based on the theme ‘Out of the Box Into the Future’, the stand showcased how the WI movement has been instrumental in achieving positive change for women and for society. Part of the exhibit depicted the activities of the WI in its early days through photos. The larger part of the exhibit showcased the different opportunities offered by the WI today such as campaigning, life-long learning and projects.
On display were the Show the Love green hearts quilts, produced by members of Glamorgan Federation, highlighting the need for urgent action to address the climate emergency. Also on display was a wedding dress made out of different plastics to raise awareness of the need to tackle plastic pollution that is harming our environment and wildlife.
Children’s activities and craft demonstrations took place daily such as card making and paper flowers.
On the first morning of the Show, the judging of our competitions took place. The theme of this year’s Rose Bowl (produce and handicraft) and Brecon Cup (floral art) competitions was ‘All Things Bright and Beautiful’. The winners were Powys Brecknock and Ceredigion respectively. Huge congratulations to both.
Find out more about the competition and the federations placed in second and third position here.
On the Tuesday afternoon, we launched this year’s Not in my Name campaign. A panel of expert speakers addressed delegates about the prevalence of violence against women and the support available through the Live Fear Free Helpline, the additional challenges faced by survivors in rural areas, and the important role of stakeholders in raising awareness and challenging inappropriate attitudes and behaviours.
Chaired by NFWI-Wales Chair Jill Rundle, the event was addressed by Joyce Watson MS; Ann Williams, Manager of the Live Fear Free Helpline; Rhianon Bragg, survivor of domestic abuse; Ruth Dodsworth, survivor of domestic abuse; Ian Rickman, President of the FUW; and Dafydd Llywelyn, Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Commissioner.
