EmpowHer East Gippsland is hosting its biggest ever event in Bairnsdale at 7.30pm on Friday, March 8, at The Forge Theatre and Arts Hub.
The EmpowHer EG committee is excited to announce that the keynote speaker is well-known Australian comedian, Claire Hooper.
Claire Hooper started on the stage, crafting engaging, innovative live shows that blended stand-up, theatre and some hammer dancing. Her 2006 show, Oh, earned her both critical acclaim and a nomination for the Melbourne Comedy Festival’s best newcomer award. A born storyteller with a sharp wit, Claire has gone on to regularly perform at festivals and comedy rooms all over the country.
For four years Claire shared a set with Paul McDermott and Mikey Robbins on the iconic comedy show Good News Week as a team captain.
Over the past decade Claire has been captivating audiences touring solo shows across the country, hosting popular television and streaming shows and is a regular on screen, often co-hosting Channel Ten’s The Project as well as regular appearances on ABC’s Question Everything, Spicks & Specks, SBS’ Celebrity Letters & Numbers and Channel Ten’s Would I Lie to You?
Last but not least, in what is possibly Claire’s proudest achievement to date, her debut children’s book Princess Benjamin Has A Very Cheeky Bum was released in 2021. Claire has loved sharing the joy of this book with kids all around the country.
“Part of EmpowHer’s mission is to bring speakers to East Gippsland,” EmpowHer president and Bairnsdale lawyer, Katherine Argentino, said.
“We decided that our community deserved a big event with a high-profile speaker for International Women’s Day 2024. The committee has worked incredibly hard to make this happen, and I cannot wait to see it all come together.”
International Women’s Day is a global day with origins dating back to the beginning of the 20th century. It is a day of celebration, recognising the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The 2024 theme is ‘Count Her In: Invest in Women. Accelerate Progress’.
“We have organised a panel of local women in leadership, financial counselling and business who will share their stories and provide practical tips on matters such as employment pathways, financial services, and financial literacy. It’s an opportunity to come together to celebrate local women’s achievements and advocate for women’s economic inclusion.”
Women leave EmpowHer EG events feeling positive, with new connections, information, inspiration, and tools to succeed.
Katherine said this event will be no exception.
“We want women to have equal access to participating in the economy,” Katherine said.
“Women need opportunities to build their capabilities locally. EmpowHer events provide opportunity for education and connection. For me personally, the benefits of simply surrounding yourself with a group of supportive and inspiring women are immeasurable.
“At this event, we aim to empower women in East Gippsland to learn, earn and lead.”
An exciting highlight of the evening will be the release and performance of a new song dedicated to International Women’s Day. The artist will be announced soon, promising an uplifting addition to the celebration.
This is a jam-packed night of entertainment that is not to be missed.
