Meet The Wonder Women of Newcastle

We’re celebrating IWD in NE1 by interviewing some of the inspirational women who make our city a better place to live!

CATHERINE TUCKER

CAREERS MANAGER, NE1

How did you get to where you are now? 

My background is in education having worked as a Careers Advisor for many years in a variety of different settings.  I am one half of the NE1 Can team. Our programme enables young people to have direct contact with businesses, giving them a real insight into careers and the world of work. I’ve worked with some inspirational people throughout my career, learned from them and had loads of fun – and it’s not over yet!

How has Newcastle impacted your life? 

I now call Newcastle my home after coming here to study for my degree and on graduating, decided this was the place where I wanted to stay, live and work. The city has such an identity and great people.

What was your 'Lightbulb' moment? 
I have lightbulb moments all the time really and hope I always will.
 

What advice would you give to your younger self? 

Be more confident and don’t follow the crowd - you are able to break out of the box that sometimes you and others may want to put you in.

Tell us one rule you live by? 

I have two. Treat every day as a school day and always keep a sense of humour.

Which woman do you admire the most? 

My sister is an amazing role model. I have always looked up to her even though she is younger than me. 

If you were going out in Newcastle to celebrate IWD, where would you go? 

This is a difficult one as there are so many great places to go in the city. I think I would enjoy going anywhere if I was in good company.  I’ll choose Pani’s on High Bridge. There’s always such a buzz about the place. 

Shout out to another inspiring female doing great things in Newcastle?

All the outstanding women who I work with at Newcastle NE1 Ltd.

AMY FLETCHER

PRIVATE CLIENT SOLICITOR, PEPPERELLS LAW

What was your ‘lightbulb’ moment’?

I first started to learn about the legal system when we studied Crime & Punishment in school which set my thoughts going around being in law.

What is your proudest achievement?

Throughout University, I discovered I was coeliac and dyslexic, which made my first few year’s quite challenging. I’m really proud that I saw it through to come out with a 2:1.

Tell us one rule you live by?

I love this quote by Rachel Wolchin; ‘If we were meant to stay in one place, we’d have roots instead of feet’. I’m such an avid traveller so this quote is close to my heart!

Which woman do you admire the most?

My inspirational female figure would be Baroness Brenda Hale. She was the President of the Supreme Court in 2017 and was the first woman to serve in this role. I also really love her quirky dress sense, you should check out some of the broaches she wears!

Shout out to another inspiring female doing great things in Newcastle?

I would have to say Lynn McManus! She is a mum of 9 who campaigned tirelessly to open a centre for disabled children and was crowned ‘Mum of the Year’ in a national contest. 

CHANTAL HERBERT 

SISTER SHACK CIC FOUNDER/DIRECTOR

How did you get to where you are now?

I moved to Newcastle from down south in 2003. I studied for a degree at Northumbria University and I have had various careers. I’ve always been passionate about speaking out about social injustice, women’s rights and racism, so I decided to start up Sister Shack in 2018. I now record and edit audio documentaries that amplify marginalised communities. I concentrate mainly on telling the stories and experiences of women and non-binary people of colour. I also DJ and organise events. I’ve found a combination of these things works really well, and it gives me a reason to wake up and keep going.

What was your ‘lightbulb’ moment’? 

I realised that I was unhappy with my career and my direction. I was also sick of seeing white men on every DJ and event line-up being given platforms that women were not even given a chance to have. I decided just to quit my job, go self-employed with my DJing work and Sister Shack, and go back to education, something I said I would never do.

What advice would you give to your younger self? 

Get help with your mental health sooner rather than later and fake it till you make it.

Which woman do you admire the most?

Any woman who has had to deal with what the world throws at them, whether they survive or not. This world is challenging, and we should not be ashamed if we aren’t “strong” or resilient.

If you were going out in NE1 to celebrate IWD, where would you go?

The Cumberland Arms, The Old Coal Yard and the Journey Café Bar.

Shout out to another inspiring female doing great things in Newcastle?

I am gonna choose three. Jo Hodson - The owner of The Cumberland Arms, Dr Hannabiell Sanders and Yillis Del Carmen Suriel - aka Ladies of the Midnight Blue.

 

LUCY STOCKDALE

PROGRAMME COORDINATOR
 

How did you get to where you are now?
Becoming the Programme Coordinator at The Common Room was the fruition of a lot of passions, beliefs and aims of mine. I’ve always wanted to work for a charity committed to a good cause. I wanted to continue working for an organisation who supported and celebrated the city of Newcastle and the North-East more widely. Having studied Physics at A-level and being only one of three female students in the class, I was acutely aware of the gender imbalance in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM), and in later years began to realise how it ought to change for the betterment of the sectors and our society at large. The Common Room (formerly known to many as the Mining Institute)’s mission is to use our unique heritage to inspire the next generation of innovators and engineers, particularly those from backgrounds less-represented in STEM. My role is to support the delivery of this mission.

How has Newcastle impacted your life?
Having grown up in Chester-le-Street but being born in Newcastle (with a view of St James’ Park, I might add), I never knew if I could count myself as Geordie, but I do feel like one at heart. Since leaving University I’ve only ever worked in Newcastle, starting with an internship at Newcastle NE1! It was so exciting to be a part of some of the city’s biggest events like restaurant week, and to work with businesses across Newcastle – I learned so much. Now working in one of the city’s most historic venues, The Common Room, I feel so lucky to get to share our industrial heritage with people from the Toon and beyond. I feel like I’ve gone full-circle from the days I used to go to the Discovery Museum and always be so excited to see their ‘Newcastle Story’ exhibition.

What was your 'Lightbulb' moment?
Realising that Soreen is delicious, and not a gross malty fruit loaf?

What is your proudest achievement?
My proudest achievement so far has been graduating from The University of Manchester in 2019, with a first-class bachelor’s degree in English Literature and American Studies. Like many, I’ve struggled with my mental health throughout my life, but it had never been so bad as when I was at University. Despite taking a year out, I was so proud to put in my best and finish what I started, when so many times things felt completely hopeless.

What advice would you give your younger self? 
A cliché, but don’t live in the future and believe in yourself. It’s a sad truth that so many women would say the same to their younger selves, because the enormous pressure to feel as though you need to achieve X things by X date is overwhelming. As a woman or young girl, the odds are far more likely to be stacked against you. You’re the only person you can make believe in you, so be a friend to yourself, not an enemy. I’m still working on this one!

Tell us one rule you live by?
Shy bairns get nowt! And learning to be a more assertive as a woman is really helping me stick to this rule too.

If you were going out in NE1 to celebrate IWD, where would you go?
This year I’m attending COCO’s International Women’s Day panel event, which will be such a great opportunity to network with other women in Newcastle. If we’re going ‘out out,’ you might catch me having 2 for 1 cocktails at Las Iguanas!

Shout out to another inspiring female doing great things in Newcastle?
I’ve only met Chantal Herbert once, but the work they do to support and shout about women and non-binary creatives and entrepreneurs is amazing, as the Founder/Director of Sister Shack. Chantal is also an Audio Producer, DJ and events organiser.

I’d also like to shout out the girls in my Scout Troop (I’m a leader) for all the great things they’re doing, and for always facing up to new challenges!

PAULA WATSON

OWNER, PUREKNEAD 

How did you get to where you are now?

Through sheer hard work, determination and resilience!

How has Newcastle impacted your life?

I adore Newcastle. It's a beautiful city filled with great people, a fab indie scene and I feel honoured to be part of it.

What was your ‘lightbulb’ moment’?

It's simple really. After years of self-doubt, I realised that I could do anything I put my mind to!

Tell us one rule you live by?

I have one rule that continues to ring true to this day - be kind!

If you were going out in NE1 to celebrate IWD, where would you go?

I cannot wait to visit Khai Khai, I've heard amazing things! If Harrison Ford eats there - it must be spectacular!

Shout out to another inspiring female doing great things in Newcastle?

Shoutout to Michelle Woods! She's a local artist and an all-around good gal who is devoted to bringing a bit of joy to people with her print workshops. 

JULIE MILNE

CHIEF CURATOR OF ART GALLERIES, TYNE & WEAR ARCHIVES & MUSEUMS

How did you get to where you are now?

I’ve always had a passion for art. I took on the role of Chief Curator of art galleries and I am now lucky enough to look after the Laing Art Gallery, Hatton Gallery and the Shipley Art Gallery in Gateshead!

What was your ‘lightbulb’ moment’?

At university, I was taught by ground-breaking feminist art historian, Professor Griselda Pollock, who highlighted the lack of appreciation and importance of women in art. With an all-female team of curators and educators, we strive to address omissions and incomplete narratives in art.

What is your proudest achievement?

The John Martin: Heaven and Hell exhibition in 2011 was a highlight for me. It was a hugely ambitious exhibition in partnership with Tate Britain.

Which woman do you admire the most?

Josephine Baker. She declined to play to racially segregated audiences and in 1963, she stood beside Martin Luther King at the March in Washington. 

LINDA CONLON 

MBE, DL, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF THE CENTRE FOR LIFE

How has Newcastle impacted your life?

Profoundly. I was born in Newcastle and have spent the vast majority of my working life here. We have a buzzing cultural scene, great universities, exciting restaurants and growing expertise in sectors like life sciences and technology.

What is your proudest achievement?

Professionally, it has to be the Centre for Life. It touches the lives of so many people in a profound and positive way and has become a recognised and loved landmark in the city. It’s been wonderful to have played a part in its success.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Don’t sweat the small stuff, trust your gut and believe that you can pretty much do anything if you put your mind to it. Dive in and have a go!

Which woman do you admire the most?

I’d go for Maya Angelou, the US author and civil rights activist whose strength of character helped her to overcome the racial prejudice and discrimination she faced her whole life.

If you were going out in NE1 to celebrate IWD, where would you go?

21 on the Quayside - consistently good quality and great service.

LESLEY LISTER

MANAGING DIRECTOR, TYNE TEES MODELS

How did you get to where you are now?

I've worked hard, had an amazingly supportive husband, especially when I've been skint and I've never given up, even when the bad times hit hard. I've surrounded myself with people I love and trust and I feel blessed to work with such a great team.

How has Newcastle impacted your life?

I love our City, I love being a part of Newcastle businesses and I've always been passionate about bringing more business to the North East. I've had help from local training programmes and grants, but most of all the people I've met in Newcastle always seem to inspire me. 

What was your ‘lightbulb’ moment’?

I don’t really know if I’ve ever had a ‘lightbulb’ moment, maybe lots of little ‘flickers’ along the way!

What is your proudest achievement?
I’ve had so many, my children, my grandchildren, trekking the Grand Canyon, but most recently building my youngest daughter a home.

What advice would you give to your younger self?
Experience as many different things as possible and be confident in yourself.

Tell us one rule you live by?
Treat people how you’d want to be treated.

Which woman do you admire the most?

My mum worked full time whilst raising myself and my two brothers. I believe she instilled a hard working attitude in me without me realising.

Shout out to another inspiring female doing great things in Newcastle?

Two ladies, Christine Stephenson and Kelly Best, who after suffering tragedy, have created an incredible business of saving lives. They’ve set out to place defibrillators across the North East and raise awareness of CPR. They are a true inspiration! 

CHARLIE DIXON

RESIDENT GEORDIE

How has Newcastle impacted your life?

I love living in Newcastle! I often go to watch Newcastle United with my Dad. The atmosphere on match days are amazing!

What is your proudest achievement?

Achieving my black belt in Karate is definitely my proudest moment! I worked really hard and practised for long hours, so when I was awarded it, I was so happy! 

What would you love to do in the future?

I’d love to be an interior designer or something creative. 

Which woman do you admire the most?

My Mum. She just does it all! She wants the best for me and makes me want the best for myself.
What's one rule you live by? 
Never give up! 

If you were going out in Newcastle to celebrate IWD, where would you go?

Probably shopping with my Grandma at Eldon Square as every girl likes shopping, don’t they? Then I’m off to eat chocolate brownies and ice cream - my favourite place in Newcastle is The Great British Cupcakery. 

GEMMA DISHMAN

MARKETING & SPECIAL PROJECTS MANAGER

How did you get to where you are now?

Through hard work, dedication, ambition, and a drive to constantly do better. I have always pushed myself to do more and go the extra mile when it comes to work. Loving what I do has made the journey enjoyable even through the most challenging times, and the hard work has paid off - I get to come to work every day and enjoy it. 

How has Newcastle impacted your life?
I’ve lived in Newcastle all my life and I’m so proud of our city. My love for a night out in Newcastle and my passion for the food and drink scene inspired me to get involved in destination marketing and the leisure industry. Helping to promote this city is nothing but a pleasure.

What was your ‘lightbulb’ moment’?

Seeing my daughter Amber off to university and realising that being a young mum at 18 hasn’t held either of us back from achieving something great.

What is your proudest achievement?

As someone who really isn’t sporty and hated PE at school, completing the Great North Run, cycling across the Masai Mara and climbing Mount Kilimanjaro!

Tell us one rule you live by?

You always have a choice - choose to be happy.

Which woman do you admire the most?
My mam – she is the strongest and most compassionate woman I have ever met.

If you were going out in Newcastle to celebrate IWD, where would you go?

It would have to be The Muddler. It’s my favourite place to catch up with the girls over a cocktail and enjoy some great tasting food. 

CHELSEA HALFPENNY

ACTRESS

How has Newcastle impacted your life?

I love being from Newcastle. I think it’s given me character, perspective, and a real sense of belonging.

What was your ‘lightbulb’ moment’?

When I was cast in 9to5 The Musical and made my West End debut. I had a moment of going ‘wow... I’m doing something I never thought I’d achieve here’.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

To ignore the negative, unhelpful feedback and believe in yourself.

If you were going out in NE1 to celebrate IWD, where would you go?

Alvinos knock up some lovely cocktails and often have live music on. Then, I’m off to Hoochie Coochie for a good old dance!

Shout out to another inspiring female doing great things in Newcastle?

I think Rosie Ramsay does a great job at showing her ‘real’ self online. Ithink it helps other women and mum’s feel normal. 

LAUREN PATTISON 

COMEDIAN

How has Newcastle impacted your life?

Newcastle has undoubtedly made me who I am. It’s made me kind and friendly, made me appreciate good people with great humour and making the smallest of connections with the most random of humans.

What was your ‘lightbulb’ moment’? 

One lightbulb moment would definitely be the realisation that comedy could be more than a hobby and could be an actual career if I worked hard enough.

What is your proudest achievement?

Performing at the Sydney Opera House in 2019. To be a working class girl from the West End of Newcastle, stood on a world famous stage, thousands of miles from home, felt incredibly special.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Don’t get highlights done by a stranger in a kitchen when you’re 13, please go to an actual hairdresser.

Tell us one rule you live by?

Don’t waste your time trying to please everybody. Some people just won’t like you, so, rather than desperately trying to seek their approval, focus on the people who like you for exactly who you are.

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How will you be celebrating International Women's Day 2022? Get in touch via our social channels. Twitter: @NewcastleNE1, Instagram: @NewcastleNE1, Facebook: @GetIntoNewcastle.