PD Ports has renewed its commitment to supporting the important work of the Power of Women (PoW) campaign by sponsoring its school programme.
Four children from Coatham Primary School, in Redcar –Lettie, Thomas, Arthur and Charlie – will become PoW ambassadors, joining a wider group of 100 young people from across 24 Tees Valley schools to engage with enrichment and learning opportunities with local businesses.
PD Ports formed its partnership with PoW in 2021 as part of the company’s push to raise aspirations for all young people in the Tees Valley and to encourage young women and girls to consider a career in the ports, maritime and logistics sectors.
The Power of Women campaign was set up by the late Professor Jane Turner, who decided to act following the publication of national data that showed Middlesbrough to be the worst place in the UK for a young girl to grow up.
In a few short years, PoW has built a wide-ranging network of businesses and individuals who link with the school ambassadors to highlight opportunities in the region, raise ambition and self-confidence and provide a path for personal development for the young people involved.
In turn, the ambassadors return to their schools to share their learning and experiences with their classmates.
Under the partnership renewal, PD Ports will sponsor Coatham Primary as a PoW school to enable its ambassadors to take part in the activities offered by the programme.
The four year 5 pupils were chosen following a rigorous interview process by PD Ports’ head of communications, Kirsten Donkin, and Sonia Herlingshaw from Spark Tees Valley.
Kirsten said: “All of the candidates shone with confidence, empathy and a genuine desire to become tomorrow’s leaders, championing equality for all.
“They were exceptional advocates for growing up in the Tees Valley and shared very clear views that everyone should be treated with respect and fairness, regardless of their background. Our support for the coming year means the four ambassadors will have the opportunity to attend a wide range of events and I hope they enjoy every minute.
“At PD Ports, we have an on-going commitment to creating a working environment where everyone can thrive, regardless of background. Our support of PoW is a part of this, as well as our new internal workforce groups – including a women’s group, a neurodivergent network and an LGBTQ+ group – offering an environment where like-minded people can share experiences and support one another.”
Sophie McKenna, Power of Women campaign manager, said: “With the crucial financial support of businesses like PD Ports, PoW aims to build a community by uniting education, businesses, and various organisations to drive essential change.
“Together, we can enable and inspire the future employees, and leaders, of our region.”
