Free event aims to inspire more women to run in Jersey elections

Event Celebrates Jersey’s Female Political Trailblazers to Inspire Future Candidates

A special event marking International Women’s Day aims to encourage more women to stand for election to Jersey’s States Assembly by showcasing the achievements of pioneering female politicians.

‘Their Legacy, Your Future’ will take place in the States Building on Saturday, March 8, offering attendees the chance to hear from current female States Members about their experiences in politics, from campaigning to their roles in government. The event will also include a Q&A session, allowing the audience to engage directly with elected representatives.

Deputy Inna Gardiner, one of the panelists, emphasised the importance of representation in the Assembly.

“We need an Assembly that reflects our population – with an equal balance of men and women,” she said. “Competitive elections give voters more choice, and we need more candidates stepping forward to ensure that happens.”

Recalling her own path to politics, Deputy Gardiner highlighted how an invitation to visit the States Chamber helped shape her decision to stand for election. She hopes this event will offer similar inspiration to prospective female candidates.

Attendees will also be given a behind-the-scenes tour of the States Chamber, offering a chance to sit in the very seats where decisions shaping Jersey’s future are made. The tour will highlight key figures in the island’s political history, including Ivy Forster, Jersey’s first female States Member, and Caroline Trachy, the first woman to stand for election.

Emily Thomas, Campaign Manager at Vote.je, underscored the significance of women seeing themselves in leadership roles.

“We want women to walk into the Chamber, sit in those seats, and feel like they belong there,” she said. “By celebrating the progress made by past and present States Members, we hope to inspire future candidates for the 2026 elections and beyond.”

The event aligns with the United Nations theme of ‘rights, equality, and empowerment,’ encouraging women to take an active role in shaping Jersey’s political landscape.

Tickets for the event are free but limited, and can be booked via Vote.je’s Eventbrite page.