Be inspired by well-known local journalist and author at charity speaking event

A familiar face on local and national screens, Suzanne Virdee, from Redditch, will talk about her inspiring career, offering valuable insights into her path to success, including challenges faced working in the media industry.

At ‘Lunch With Virdee’ at The Warwickshire Golf & Country Club, in Leek Wotton, she will also be sharing insights from her two books, A Girl’s Guide To Being Awesome and the best-selling A Teenager’s Guide To Being Fabulous, as well as her passion for empowering young girls with advice on navigating the difficult teenage years.

Suzanne Virdee is an award-winning TV news anchor and freelance journalist, who has presented the ITV National News, ITV News London, Channel 5 News and BBC Breakfast, as well as reporting for BBC Radio 4. She’s best known in the Midlands for co-presenting the 6.30pm BBC regional news programme Midlands Today alongside Nick Owen for 11 years.

Over her career she’s also been a passionate supporter and mentor to women starting out in journalism. She was horrified recently to be told by teachers that girls were suffering with low self- esteem - and that social media and the internet were a big factor.

Speaking about her latest book she said: “I wish it wasn’t needed but it is - more than ever. The NSPCC reported there is: ‘A deeply rooted notion that girls and young women’s bodies are somehow the property of boys and young men.’

“It’s limiting and dangerous. We all have a responsibility to make sure our next generation of girls find their inner sparkle so they can truly thrive, not just survive, and that’s what my book aims to do.

“I am extremely passionate about this subject because, obviously, I’m a woman and was once a girl and have a certain amount of ’soft power’ being a journalist. I’m looking forward to this event, being in a room surrounded by like-minded women.”

‘Lunch With Suzanne,’ on October 2nd, has been organised by Ladies First Professional Development Group who are hoping to raise enough money to purchase 50 copies of Suzanne’s book to donate to disadvantaged and vulnerable young girls in the area.

Co-director Tracey McAtamney, said: “At Ladies First we are passionate about supporting young people and empowering the next generation. Suzanne’s book is a must-read for young girls everywhere, touching on life skills, social media, body image and self-esteem. We very much look forward to this event.”

Tickets, which also include a welcome drink and two-course lunch, are available to purchase here.

To enquire about sponsorship opportunities contact Tracey McAtamney at: [email protected]