International Women in Global Solidarity | #IWD2025

Hub Cymru Africa is pleased to present this exciting panel featuring inspiring international women who work in Global Solidarity to mark International Women’s Day, in partnership with Size of Wales.

This special event will bring together our global partners in Uganda and diaspora communities across Wales to celebrate the achievements of women and discuss gender equality on an international scale.

Following the discussion, there will be an opportunity to network over a glass of wine with women from across Wales who are actively shaping our nation’s role as a truly globally responsible country.

Hosted by Claire O’Shea, head of Hub Cymru Africa, we’ll be welcoming speakers from Wales and Africa.

Speakers

Chair: Mutale Merrill

An esteemed leader with over 30 years of experience in social care, health, housing, and international development. She was the founding CEO of Bawso and has held significant leadership roles, including serving on the Welsh Government Board as a non-executive director and former co-Chair of Sub-Sahara Advisory Panel.

Claire O’Shea

An experienced civil society leader and campaigner, based in Cardiff, Claire moved to Wales in 2001 to study at Cardiff University. Since then she has worked for high profile third sector and membership organisations, contributing to real-world change on education, health, loneliness, inclusion and global justice. Claire joined Hub Cymru Africa as its Head in 2019.

Deborah Nabulobi

An inspiring local community leader in Mbale, Uganda, Deborah is a project participant of the Mbale Trees Growing Programme. Deborah is also a member of the Bumaena Women’s Group which manages the local community’s tree nursery. She is also a gender champion, promoting the rights of women across the community.

Hellen Alupo

Hellen represents the Mount Elgon Tree Growing Enterprise (METGE), a key delivery partner for Size of Wales and the Mbale Trees Growing Programme. A key member of the team, Hellen oversees the implementation of the programme and leads on METGE’s financial management.

Barbara Davies-Quy

Barbara is Deputy Director of Size of Wales. She joined Size of Wales as Head of Programmes in January 2020 and is responsible for overseeing forest projects and policy work. She has over 15 years of experience working at the international development NGO, CAFOD, where she was Andes Country Representative, managing programmes to promote human rights, protect the environment and tackle climate change.