On the 2nd of October, we hosted our annual Oxfordshire Women of the Year Lunch at St Hugh’s College, Oxford. The event is one of our most successful fundraisers, with all proceeds directly supporting our vital work with vulnerable children, young people and their families.
This year’s guest speakers were two truly inspirational women, Dr Gwen Adshead and Kathy Slack. Dr Adshead is a leading forensic psychiatrist, psychotherapist and author, who’s academic and professional achievements span medical law and ethics, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, and group analysis. She is also one of only five Honorary Fellows of the Royal College of Psychiatrists.
Kathy Slack is an award-winning food writer, cook and gardener. She began her career at Daylesford Organic Farm before becoming a full-time writer and presenter, sharing recipes and reflections inspired by her own garden. Her publications include Rough Patch: How a year in the garden brought me back to life, and from the Veg Patch, which was shortlisted for The Guild of Food Writers Award for Best Cookbook.
Guests for the event are invited to nominate a woman they particularly admire – whether a friend, a colleague or community figure. Guests and nominees will then attend the event together and meet with other inspirational women across the sector. The event is a celebration, not a competition, and is complemented by a two-course meal served in the welcoming and historic surroundings of St Hugh’s College.
Since its launch in 2002, the Women of the Year Lunch has grown into a sell-out event and a major fundraising and celebratory occasion for the charity. With seating allocated at random, it sparks inspiring encounters and conversations. The lunch also honours those who have made a real difference to others, reflecting the charity’s mission that places quality relationships at the heart of all we do.
Funds raised from the Women of the Year Lunch contribute directly to enhancing facilities for children, such as specialised classroom furniture and purpose-built kitchen areas that promote life skills and independence.
We are deeply grateful to all who attended, nominated and supported this year’s event. Your generosity helps ensure The Mulberry Bush can continue its mission of providing safety, belonging and opportunity for some of the most vulnerable children and young people in society.
