Celebrating International Women’s Day
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, CAG Devon is delighted to shine a light on exceptional women who are driving change and fostering community spirit within their local areas.
We know that within our network, there are numerous remarkable women making a positive difference every day.
To recognise their dedication and hard work, we called upon our CAG Devon community groups to nominate inspiring women, and we are thrilled to celebrate six nominees who have been chosen for their contributions.
These are the kind words taken from their group’s nomination submission:
Jeni Fulton Price – Uffculme Green Team
Jeni’s dedication to sharing her knowledge and promoting climate change awareness is commendable. As one of the leaders of the Uffculme Green Team, she actively engages in all of their projects and initiatives, inspiring others and supporting community members. Just some of Uffculme’s projects include their community fridge, repair cafe and warm spaces initiatives. Jeni’s passion for wildlife and nature shines through her work, empowering everyone to recognise their value in preserving our environment. She juggles multiple interests, devoting her time and energy to each one with impressive detail and enthusiasm. Jeni’s modesty may lead her to be embarrassed by this nomination, but her impact on climate change awareness and community engagement is undeniable.
Something your group would like you to know: Jeni you are a star and we love you.
Carolyn Dare – Blackdown Hills Transition Group
Carolyn’s role in establishing the Blackdown Hills Ecohub and leading various sustainability projects demonstrates her commitment to environmental conservation. Her collaborative efforts with Plymouth University and local stakeholders showcase her dedication to fostering community engagement and driving positive change. Carolyn’s energy and expertise inspire action and bring innovative projects to life, creating a more sustainable future for her community. As Secretary of the Blackdown Hills Transition Group, Carolyn facilitates projects focused on rewilding, local food growing, and community energy, while also supporting initiatives like the Repair Café, Climate Action Taunton and Thrive, a collaborative community group dedicated to making a positive impact in the Blackdown Hills.
Something your group would like you to know: We would like Carolyn to know how much we appreciate and are inspired by all that she does, particularly as so much is done on an unpaid volunteer basis.
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Nadine Dommett – Makers Mews CIC
Nadine’s visionary approach to reducing waste and fostering creativity is truly inspiring. Through Makers Mews, she has created a vibrant hub for the Ivybridge community, promoting skill-sharing and repair initiatives while championing sustainability. Nadine’s dedication to salvaging materials and encouraging eco-friendly practices empowers individuals to make a tangible difference in their community. Her creative hub not only provides a space for learning and skill development but also promotes the values of repairing, sharing, and sustainability. Nadine’s commitment to sustainability and community collaboration is evident in every aspect of her work.
Something your group would like you to know: You are making a difference, you are appreciated, keep it up and let’s celebrate you being you!
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Lynne Holmes – Ashburton Repair Café
Lynne’s selfless dedication to improving her local community is Inspiring. From her instrumental role in founding the Ashburton Repair Café to her efforts in saving the Ashburton Swimming Pool from closure, Lynne’s impact is felt far and wide. Her generosity and tenacity in supporting various causes embody the spirit of community resilience and empowerment. She is a valued member of the community, always ready to lend a helping hand and make a difference.
Something your group would like you to know: You’re great; always remember that!
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Inga Page – Ashburton Community Fridge
Inga’s leadership in driving initiatives around climate change and community engagement is commendable. As a key figure in Ashburton’s initiatives, including the Ashburton Community Fridge and Repair Café, she demonstrates a commitment to creating a more sustainable and resilient community. Inge’s involvement in numerous projects underscores her dedication to fostering positive change and inspiring others to take action. She played a crucial role in setting up the Repair Café in 2018 and continues to support various initiatives related to climate change, the community fridge and community engagement.
Something your group would like you to know: The whole community are so appreciative that you are the instigator of many projects in what seems like an effortless way and then inspire people to take the baton.
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Tara Bowers – ECOE
Tara’s pioneering work at Exeter Community Energy (ECOE) is truly inspiring. She leads the charge in developing community energy advice to combat fuel poverty and reduce carbon emissions. Under her guidance, ECOE’s ‘Healthy Homes project’ has grown exponentially, reaching thousands of households and driving significant energy savings. Tara’s dedication ensures no one is left behind, fostering a fair and inclusive transition to a greener future. Her team has provided practical support to over 8,000 households in 2023 alone. Through outreach activities like energy advice clinics and events, Tara has engaged nearly 20,000 residents, resulting in substantial energy savings of £2,066,601 and a reduction of 600 tonnes of carbon emissions!
Something your group would like you to know: Her team and ECOE directors would like to express their admiration for Tara’s tenacity and determination. She demonstrates over and again just how much women leaders can achieve!
These women embody the spirit of International Women’s Day through their diverse initiatives, which range from environmental conservation to community empowerment. Their dedication and passion inspire positive change.
Join us in celebrating these inspiring women. Happy International Women’s Day to all the change-makers we have in our CAG Devon Network!
PS. We’ll be doing something similar next year, so start thinking about who you’d nominate, but don’t wait a year to tell them how valued they are.
