Two award-winning entrepreneurs are launching a ground-breaking initiative aimed at empowering women in Chester.

This autumn, confidence catalysts Maggie Chen and Marie-Claire Ashcroft are launching a fully funded, four-week confidence-building programme designed to uplift women from all walks of life.

Generously supported by Chester Community Foundation and Storyhouse, and in collaboration with Storyhouse Women, this series promises lasting positive change for women.

It follows research by the National Bureau of Economic Research which showed close to 80 per cent of women struggle with low self-esteem and shy away from self-advocacy at work.

Running for four consecutive Mondays from September 30 to October 21, 7.30-9pm, this innovative programme welcomes women aged 18 and over.

Using a creative, playful and gamified approach, this initiative aims to tackle themes of mental health, including loneliness, low self-esteem, confidence, and self-care, through intergenerational connections and community development. By educating and bringing people together, the programme aspires to create a lasting impact, fostering confidence, wellbeing, connections, and a sense of belonging.

Participants will benefit by raising their aspirations and realising their potential through a changed perspective about themselves. The person-centred approach ensures that each woman is seen for whom she is, not defined by her issues or life circumstances.

The programme will benefit women, the local community, and marginalised groups. Storyhouse is committed to inclusivity, inviting participants from diverse backgrounds, including the trans community.

The format encourages active participation and practical application, ensuring that attendees gain actionable skills and insights. The workshops are free of charge, but spaces are limited and require an application.

Week one of the workshop schedule is titled Embrace Your Strengths, week two is How to Communicate Effectively, week three is Develop Change & Resilience Mindset, while week four is Motivation & Goal-setting.

The collaboration builds on the success of a pilot workshop, ‘Confidence Level Up,’ held at Storyhouse Women 2024. The pilot was a sell-out, with 35 women attending and providing overwhelmingly positive feedback.

Applications are now open for this unique programme. Prospective participants are encouraged to ensure their availability for all four sessions before applying. The deadline for applications is August 19.

For more information and to apply, visit https://www.storyhouse.com/whats-on/storyhouse-women-confidence-level-up-2

Maggie Chen is founder of the award-winning Chester-based organisation Girls in Charge, having worked with nearly 7,000 women in three continents. In her spare time, Maggie also serves on the Ethics Panel of Cheshire Constabulary and leads the Engagement Board at Enterprise Cheshire & Warrington.

Marie-Claire Ashcroft, known as the Professional Rebel, specialises in helping individuals transform their self-perception and express themselves confidently.

With nearly two decades of experience as a photographer, business mentor, and confidence facilitator, Marie-Claire has overcome her own struggles with low self-esteem, neurodivergence and mental health issues to inspire many.