our her-story
Welcome to the page chronicling the journey of POW Thanet, the arts and feminist organisation that has rooted itself deeply in the cultural soil of Kent for 10 years.
It all began with POW’s Founder, Christina Clark-McQuaid, who saw art not just as an expression but as a powerful tool for change. In 2015, this idea became reality and Power of Women Thanet was born, steered by Christina and Jan Ryan. Together, they set the stage for a movement that is become an integral part of Thanet’s history, and a loudspeaker for issues that are often whispered.
You might know us for our annual International Women’s Day Festival, but as POW’s roots have grown, so have our branches, and we now work year round. Our Young Producers Programme has been running for 5 years now, and we support local feminist artists with a year round exhibition programme and workshops. It’s not just the output that’s year round - our team work hard behind the scenes fundraising, bid writing, programming, mentoring, and strengthening relationships around Thanet.
This isn't just a history. It's a living, breathing movement. It's a testament to the power of women when they come together, fueled by the arts, driven by equality, and unafraid to make their voices heard.
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In 2025 we celebrate our 10th Birthday and rethink how we work across Thanet, across the year.
The theme for 2025 is “Past, Present, Future” as we tackle ageism and celebrate the feminist creatives who shape Thanet.
Your support means the world, and this year we’re asking for one gift, can you give £10 for our 10th birthday?
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The 2024 International Women’s Day Festival was focused on the defiant act of rest and aptly titled “Restival”.
Through the Festival, POW provided 57 paid opportunites, engaged 197 creative professionals, attracted over 8,000 attendees across 44 Thanet venues.
POW offered 17 free and 2 sliding-scale events to make the Arts & Cuture accessible to those with limited income.
POW mentored 6 Young People through the Young Producers programme and created 30 pathways to work through the Young Creatives programme.
POW begins increased engagement with eco-friendly & sustainable practices, integrating it into their programming and bid writing.
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POW launches its Fundraising Plan for 2023-2027 with an aim to diversify income sources.
The organisation remains committed to its mission, embracing the complexities of feminism and promoting a safe space for discourse.
Engagement programs continue throughout the year, aiming to inspire, educate, and connect the community with arts.
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Rosanagh takes over as CEO, and Amy Redmond becomes the Artistic Director, leading a skilled team.
The organisation dives deeper into fostering relationships with Trusts, Foundations, and local councils.
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Social media presence further grows, achieving a reach of 40,603 and accumulating 8,816 followers.
The annual festival continues to flourish, with a broader range of activities and events celebrating International Women's Day.
Strategies to expand audience reach and pilot new fundraising techniques are further refined.
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Jan Ryan concludes her tenure as the Artistic Director.
The organisation witnesses a significant growth in social media with a reach of 9,000 and 6,600 followers.
A focused strategy is developed to reach younger audiences, creative professionals, and arts consumers.
Collaborations with local authorities and trusts are initiated, and crowdfunding initiatives are explored.
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POW builds its presence in Thanet, Kent.
Gender inequality is addressed through the curation of annual arts festivals.
POW continues its community engagement program, fostering connections with local schools and community groups.
The annual festival sees growth in both in-person and online formats, engaging a broader local and global audience.
Fringe Festival becomes a key event, showcasing diverse local artists, groups, and venues.
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Power of Women (POW) is founded by local arts manager Christina Clark-McQuaid.
Theatre producer Jan Ryan joins as the Artistic Director.
The organisation starts its journey in promoting equality and diversity, primarily focusing on the challenges faced by women and girls.
The foundation for an annual arts festival to commemorate International Women's Day is laid.
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Christina Clark-McQuaid conceives the idea for an arts organisation focusing on championing equality.
Preliminary ideas and groundwork are laid for the foundation of the Power of Women (POW) organisation.