Members of the Hackney Young Women's Group Photo:Hackney council

A day of arts activities is being held in Hackney on Thursday to celebrate International Women’s Day.

Young women  aged 13-19 are invited to take part at the  ‘We Can Do It!’ event at the Ocean Music Venue in Mare Street.

The Hackney Council organised event is an opportunity for young women to develop and discover new skills through the arts – as well as having a chance of winning £100 worth of shopping vouchers.

Highlights of the women-only event include the first annual public speaking championship for young women and an all female talent show finale where they can show off their talents without auditions.

During the day it will be possible to take part in warm-up workshops including dance, vocal training, acting, stage make-up and fashion styling, performance skills and confidence building.

Attendees will be able to speak to professionals for some last-minute tips before taking to the stage. The event will also include performances by special guests.

Councillor Rita Krishna, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: “We are committed to providing opportunities that  help young people in Hackney to realize their full potential and this event builds on the many activities that aim to broaden young women’s artistic aspirations.”

Hackney’s Young Women’s Group has been meeting on Wednesday evenings in central Hackney since May 2009. Additional ‘Girls-Only’ sessions are being held weekly in Frampton Park Youth Club and Fellows Court Youth Project.

For more information please contact Ciara McDonnell ciara.mcdonnell@hackney.gov.uk.