Beginning on Thursday 3rd March, Francis Holland has been enjoying a series of lectures given by Women Of Influence. Each of the talks has been inspiring and very well received by students and staff alike.
Rachel Campbell-Johnston
The first lecture was given by Rachel Campbell-Johnston, an author and Chief art critic and poetry critic for The Times as part of World Book Week. More can be read about her talk here, and see photos here
Her Honour Judge Amakye
On Monday 7th March as part of the Women of Influence Lecture Series, Francis Holland was delighted to welcome Her Honour Judge Amakye to assembly. The Hall fell silent as Judge Amakye took centre stage and spoke about her long and fascinating career as a Circuit Judge at Gray’s Inn. She elaborated on her Criminal Barrister work which involved defending cases across the board up to serious offences such as Murder and brought prosecution cases to trial including major drug importation charges. She further discussed her international work which included defending the Minister for Education and Scientific Research during the Rwandan genocide. Words of encouragement concluded the presentation as girls were warmly invited to follow in her footsteps.
It was an enlightening and thought-provoking presentation which inspired many girls to consider their career options.
Ann Mroz
During lunchtime of Tuesday 8th March, Ann Mroz, who has been Digital Publishing Director and Editor of the Times Educational Supplement since 2013, came in to talk to the girls about being an editor, her take on social media and even meeting Bill Clinton! Ann commented on the ever growing influence of social media, and how she learnt to accept and adapt to this development. In her very entertaining speech, she also spoke of the importance of standing by her beliefs, as well as about the busy and varied nature of working as an editor. Overall it was a wonderfully humorous talk with a very important and sincere message, and was very well received by all who attended.
Lynne Tembey
On Monday 14th March we were joined in assembly by Lynne Tembey, Mothers’ Union Worldwide President, who spoke enthusiastically about the work of the organisation that supports communities worldwide through the use of trained volunteer members. Girls learnt that through praying, campaigning and volunteering, members strengthen marriage and family life and bring about positive changes to their local communities. At the end of her presentation the Head Girl publicly thanked Lynne for her incredibly inspiring talk.
We look forward to the upcoming lectures!
