MORE than 75 women from across Ayrshire came together in Largs for the launch of a new initiative aimed at building confidence, connection and opportunities for women and girls.
The inaugural SHINE: An Empower Hour event, held at Barrfields and led by Karen Morgan, marked the start of what organisers hope will become a growing movement focused on mentoring, coaching and positive community support.
The afternoon blended laughter, inspiration and personal reflection, allowing attendees to share experiences and build new connections.
The event concluded with a group rendition of Bring Me Sunshine, providing a fitting finale to a day centred on optimism and togetherness.
Participants were quick to praise the atmosphere and impact of the gathering.
One attendee said: “What a fantastic afternoon it was today. Huge congratulations to Karen, Clare and family for pulling it off. Laugh a minute. Looking forward to the next event. Thanks all you wonderful females.”
As well as bringing women together, the event raised £146 for SHINE’s community fund. The money will help support future mentoring, coaching and empowerment programmes designed to strengthen opportunities for women and girls across Ayrshire.
SHINE founder Clare Hussain described the turnout as an encouraging show of local support and a positive beginning for the initiative, which plans to roll out further events and projects in the coming months.
She also welcomed recognition received by the organisation this week after SHINE was named a finalist in the Community Achievement Award category at the Scottish Women Awards 2026.
Clare said: “Being selected as a finalist for a Community Achievement Award this week is a lovely recognition of what we’re trying to achieve and hopefully helps us raise SHINE’s profile even further.”
Organisers hope the momentum generated by the launch event will help expand SHINE’s reach and inspire more women and girls to get involved in future activities.
Anyone wishing to keep up to date with future events and initiatives can follow SHINE on Facebook.
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