Working collectively with a group of women who had various life experiences contributed heavily to the processes and outcomes involved in this project. As individuals, we had valuable qualities which became apparent from the very first meeting. Working within a set period of time face-to-face and online meetings were held where the group made unanimous decisions. 

They surrounded what we wanted to achieve as a group and as individuals, the target audience, ethical approaches and future opportunities. It was agreed that this project was to be centred around art empowering women. The dynamics of the group happened almost immediately, each of us was happy with their contribution.

I suggested a natural resource, such as a rock used as a piece of art which could be returned to the environment not impacting our planet. Later collectively a workshop was agreed upon using this idea and the hashtag, #IAMHere2022.

Individually we all drew up a list of places and dates where this could possibly be held, beginning with a pilot workshop within the University setting ensuring everything ran smoothly. Within a few days after several communications by email, the group had an acceptance from a women’s institute, namely The Nelsons Trust in the Cheltenham Area. This offered support for women that came to the workshop if needed and a safe space where they could feel free to express themselves. (See appendices emails – 1)

This was the most appropriate venue suitable due to the nature of the audience we chose to engage with. Prior to communications being sent out I shared information about my own personal experiences surrounding the subject of being in a similar situation previously. The group were very supportive and understanding, allowing me to recognise I was going into this setting as a professional, not a victim.

This insight happened to be invaluable to the group giving them a deeper understanding of the insecurities these women may have experienced. At this point, protecting anonymity and safety came high on the agender.  Initially, it was suggested handwriting could be done on the rocks. It was decided to either use cut letters, create the hashtag and/or do a picture to protect identity. It was also the choice of the individual whether to take a photograph on a neutral background for use on social media platforms.

Whilst working collectively with this group I understood that each of us had different ways of working and that I was more visual than others. That was really helpful as when one of us struggled with certain aspects there was help on hand. 

Unfortunately, my locality and being a bit of a technophobe had implications for what wanted to achieve. For that reason, my tasks began with collecting resources and donations from local companies near where lived. I was assured this was needed for us to complete the project. Previous experience in sourcing resources and raising donations from various individuals and companies definitely helped in this activity. 

My upbeat approach gained support whilst promoting this project. It felt as though there had been significant progression within society over the last twenty years, resulting in more openness and willingness to help.

After the pilot had taken place and adjustments made, the day finally arrived for the workshop at The Nelson Trust.

On arrival, my anxiety levels were heightened and all I thought about was professionally providing a service to women wanting to feel empowered. I had purchased sundries together with a few thank-you gifts for the people attending the workshop, it was a last-minute thought from myself that the group were not aware of. The workshop began at a set time, with an icebreaker which I had organised to create a relaxed atmosphere. It seemed that no icebreaker was necessary and everyone was chilled.

I was just being my bubbly self myself and found that generally, chit-chat allowed me to connect with two ladies. Some people invited came slightly later than expected, it did not affect the workshop. After noticing one of the women was struggling to engage with the class I got out of my chair and asked her what she wanted to create on her rock. 

I felt at that point I was able to refer back to my past feelings and empathise with this woman.

Unfortunately, when I sat down, she went outside for a brief moment with the therapist for a chat. Eventually coming back into the room and in a positive way, she decided to engage. After the workshop ended the rocks were collected and there were some photographs taken away in a suitable area which were posted on the social media platform after being granted permission to use the images. We thanked everyone for their attendance and left knowing we had achieved what we set out to do. Feedback was collected from the Trust and sent at a later date.

 When we had left the rest of the group advised me about the incredible job I did helping the lady in the workshop. This situation showed me that I was able to work with people despite my nerves. I had wanted to make a difference in the lives of these women; however, I also learned that I may not be able to do this type of work consistently because of how much it took from me emotionally. 

In terms of conclusion, the whole experience has had a profound impact on me personally.  It has allowed me to work with individuals as a group in a collaboration which I feel was successful. Each of us individually brought a mixture of strengths and weaknesses which were addressed in this process. Organising a workshop like this allowed us to independently consider everything from protocols, and resources to advertising. Together our regular group meetings and the use of social media were useful tools to enable the smooth running of the event organisation.  

I know I would not have been able to do this on my own due to my lack of knowledge in certain areas, one of which is social media platforms.  I do feel that I assisted in other ways such as through my life experience. It has allowed me to gauge a deeper understanding of where the people in the workshop were on their own journey. I have been able to show a natural empathy and understanding whilst giving them the tools for others to express themselves in their own creative space. For just a moment I believe they felt empowered as we all did. (See Feedback appendices)