A ‘MASS mentoring’ event has been held aimed at inspiring female leaders of the future from across Sussex.

The event was part of a year-long commemoration of the centenary of the Representation of the People Act, which granted votes to women for the first time.

It brought together female leaders from across Sussex from sectors including politics, local government and the police, with women in the earlier stages of their career.

At the East Sussex County Council-hosted event, held today (Friday, November 9 2018) at the Civic Centre in Uckfield, mentors talked about topics such as leadership, career progression and effective management.

Becky Shaw, East Sussex County Council chief executive and one of the mentors, said: “Although a lot of progress has been made in the past 100 years, even today women are still under-represented in decision-making positions.

“This event was a great opportunity for women making their way in their chosen field to learn from each other as well as from mentors from across a broad cross-section of society.”

Topics discussed by mentors included the characteristics that make a good leader, challenges and setbacks they’ve had to overcome and the importance of supporting other women.

Mentee Emma Haynes, 33, from Eastbourne, said: “This is the first event that I have attended where I have walked away being so inspired and full of confidence for the future. It has been a fantastic day to hear everyone’s experiences.”

The Representation of the People Act of 1918 granted the vote to women over the age of 30 who met a property qualification. Equal voting rights for all women over 21 were granted by a further act of parliament 10 years later.