20 years of ‘Women Making WAVES’ celebrated at Chairman’s Reception

On 12 March 2019, Chairman of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Howard Thornton, hosted a reception for members of the organisation, ‘Women Making WAVES’ in celebration of its 20th anniversary.

Speaking at the reception in the Townhall, Enniskillen, Councillor Thornton said, “As Chairman of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, I am delighted to welcome you all to the Townhall this afternoon to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Women Making WAVES.

Women Making Waves was formed in 1999 with the support of Fermanagh Women’s Network, North West Forum for People with Disabilities, Fermanagh Access and Mobility Group and Fermanagh Volunteer Bureau. The aim of the Group is to raise awareness of the issues faced by disabled and non-disabled women and so naturally the only criteria for membership is that you have an interest in women’s and disability issues.

Women Making Waves is a magnificent advocacy group offering a voice for women and championing women in all walks of life. The Group offers valuable support, opportunities to share experiences and it supports and provides opportunities to learn new skills through education, capacity building and personal development. Equality and inclusivity is high on the Group’s agenda and what I was really impressed to hear was that the Group encourages its members to have fun!! Sometimes in today’s society we are all caught up in the rat race of life, so much so that people have forgotten how to have fun or feel guilty about being happy and enjoying themselves – so I sincerely praise and congratulate you for helping your members to look on the bright side of life and encouraging them to enjoy every opportunity they can.

I note that the motto of the Group is “Equality for All Women” and that its mission is “to bring together disabled and non-disabled women in a supportive, fun and friendly way. To act as a voice and provide opportunities through events and activities” – in the 20 years that the Group has been in existence it has certainly lived up to its motto and mission and I commend you all for delivering on those aims.

I commend and congratulate Women Making Waves on reaching this milestone anniversary and I wish you many more years of success in the future. I hope you all now enjoy this reception in your honour.”