A NETWORKING group that aims to 'connect and inspire' women is launching in Widnes this month.

The Widnes Women in Business Network (WIBN) group will hold its inaugural meeting at Woodlands Bar & Grill on Liverpool Road on Thursday, September 26. Organisers anticipate it will be a sell-out event.

“The interest and support I have received has been amazing, though not unexpected,” said WIBN franchise owner Susie Sprigg, 48.

“During the pandemic, I experienced first-hand the incredible support within the female business community. Having lost my husband the year before, who was just 52 years old, I was in desperate need of connection, community and hope. I found all of that and more through the Chester WIBN group online.

‘As the world began to reopen and my grief transformed into healing, I naturally progressed to launching my own in-person groups. What started with one group has grown into six, with the seventh, in Widnes, on the way – and I have no plans of stopping. I am committed to this work for the rest of my life because I understand how vital it is for women to have a safe, inclusive space where they can truly belong."

Susie has appointed two leaders to run the Widnes group, which will meet from 12pm to 2pm every fourth Thursday of the month. These include hypno-psychotherapist Sarah Jayne Vazquez who, having battled chronic self-sabotage, now helps others to overcome limiting beliefs, emotional barriers and negative mindsets. Sarah Jayne is also the host of the podcast ‘Bouncing Back Stronger’.

“I’ve had exciting stints in Japan, Abu Dhabi, Qatar and Milan, but Widnes is where my heart is,” said 45-year-old Sarah, who first moved to the town at the age of five.

“Being part of the team to bring WIBN to Widnes is an incredible opportunity; there’s truly nothing like it. I’m eager to provide women in and around the area with a platform to connect, inspire and be inspired by other likeminded women. I hope many come along and see how powerful networking truly is.”

Personal brand photographer and content creator Maira Sheikh, 40, who will co-lead with Sarah, added: “Working from home as a freelancer and a small business can be extremely lonely. That’s why I'm excited about the launch of the Widnes chapter. I believe it will bring together other solopreneurs in the local region, who are just as enthusiastic about building a community together, and it will create a space for support and collaboration.”

First launched in 2005, WIBN has more than 850 members and offers both national networking online and face-to-face networking at local groups that are owned by franchisees.

“Members who visit or join WIBN say they are looking for belonging and growth,” added Susie. “Although many people do find new customers through our network, we don’t have referral targets, so no one is pressured to pass leads on. We are more concerned with how we can help and learn from each other.”