Friday marked International Women’s Day, and the Professional & Business Women of Hastings Prince Edward along with The United Nations Association in Canada Quinte branch held an evening gala to celebrate.
Guests were treated to dinner and live entertainment, in honour of all the contributions women make in the local community.
During the gala, two guests were presented with certificates of appreciation for their specific contributions in the community.
The first certificate was given to Sandy Watson-Moyles, Executive Director of the Three Oaks Women’s Shelter.
Sandy Watson-Moyles after receiving her Certificate of Appreciation at the 2024 International Women’s Day Gala. Photo: Alan-Michael Steele, Quinte News
In her time as Executive Director at Three Oaks, Watson-Moyles has been a major advocate for the safety and well-being of women and girls in the community. During a brief speech before the crowd, Watson-Moyles said she was honoured to receive the certificate.
“Remember why we have International Women’s Day. It’s to celebrate our accomplishments, but it’s also to work towards ending inequality across the globe for all women,” said Watson-Moyles “Until we are all equal, none of us are equal.”
Watson-Moyles ended her speech reminding women to remember how easily rights can be taken away, in light of recent events in the United States that have reduced women’s access to abortion.
The other recipient of the Certificate of Appreciation was Shirin Mandani, owner of the Community Bakehouse. Mandani was recognized for her efforts in reducing food insecurity in the community.
Shirin Mandani holds her Certificate of Appreciation after being recognized for her community contributions during the 2024 International Women’s Day Gala. Photo: Alan-Michael Steele, Quinte News
Mandani continues to use the proceeds from the Community Bakehouse to support local initiatives targeted at ending hunger in the area.
The gala also featured a keynote speech by Karen Clayton-Babb, Chief Nurse Practitioner at the Belleville Nurse Practicioner-Led Clinic. You can read about her speech here.
