Women of influence set to inspire at conference

The Marlborough Convention Centre is being prettied up for the Women of Influence conference, which opens in Blenheim tonight.

Gold ribbons, flowers and decorations will set the scene for the more than 300 women coming from throughout New Zealand to attend, said organiser Jan Borland.

Portraits of women of influence who inspired the conference's theme will be displayed around the foyer.

Women aged from 14 to their late 70s from all walks of life had registered, some with a church background and others with no religious affiliation.

"This is a great opportunity for women to feel valued and proud and to take a weekend out for themselves," said Mrs Borland, who likened organising the conference to giving birth.

"The labour process can be a bit painful, but delivery is certainly satisfying."

The Blenheim Baptist Church first suggested a Christian-themed conference for Marlborough, then a committee of 12 picked the idea in October 2008 and ran with it, Mrs Borland said.

Especially satisfying had been outstanding support from the local business community, from sponsoring advertisements to offering help on the day.

The programme covers workshops, worship, music, a trade hall, and a fashion extravaganza, with 40 local models showing off leading-edge designs.

Speakers include television personality Petra Bagust, Marlborough chef Chris Fortune, obstetrician/gynaecologist Helen Crampton, Nelson counsellor David Riddell, associate pastor Annie Cameron of Christchurch and conference organiser Wendy Salisbury.

Mrs Borland said organisers were pleased with the numbers attending during a time of recession.

They planned to repeat the Blenheim conference every two years.

Registrations will be accepted until tonight's 7pm start time.

This is a great opportunity for women to feel valued and proud and to take a weekend out for themselves - Jan Borland, Women of Influence organiser

- The Marlborough Express

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