A reception held at Clarence House today recognised Southbank Centre’s WOW – Women of the World festival; it was hosted by Camilla, The Duchess of Cornwall.
Camilla is president of the festival, and was joined by a host of famous faces at her London home for the event, which coincided with International Women’s Day. The Countess of Wessex was in Malta to mark the day, while Meghan Markle and Prince Harry were in Birmingham meeting ‘Stemettes’.
Singer Annie Lennox, entrepreneur Liz Earle, authors Kate Mosse and Kathy Lette, broadcaster Mary Portas, Labour MP Tulip Siddiq, Liberal Democrat deputy leader Jo Swinson, were amongst the names to attend.
The Women of the World Festival celebrates women and girls, and looks at the obstacles that stop them from achieving their potential. It has been running since 2011, while Camilla has supported them since 2015.
camilla, the duchess of cornwall, with jude kelley and annie lennox at the WOW reception (clarence house)
Embed from Getty Images
Embed from Getty Images
In her speech, the Duchess opened with: “Ladies, and a smattering of very brave gentlemen.” She praised the Women of the World Festival as ‘an astonishing creation’.
“This year, WOW will take place in 53 countries across the world. It truly is a global festival dedicated to presenting work by women and promoting equality for women and girls.”
Meanwhile, Mary Portas praised the future Queen: “It’s imperative that we have the support of women in the public eye like the Duchess of Cornwall,” she said.
“It is sad, but today there is still great inequality. If we don’t shout, changes won’t happen. The Duchess is powerful and she does all with this humanity and soul.”
It will take place this weekend on London’s south bank (7-11 March).
