Jamaica Inn Event to Celebrate Untold Stories of South West Women

Published On: 23 June 2025Last Updated: 23 June 2025By CornishStuff

Stories of survival, resistance and solidarity take centre stage at Bolventor

An event promising to uncover the hidden stories of women from Cornwall and across the South West will take place next month at the historic Jamaica Inn.

‘She Speaks: Stories of South West Women’ is set for Thursday 17th July and will shine a light on female voices that have often been left out of history. From Cornish women smugglers to modern survivors of domestic and sexual abuse, the day will honour the resilience and strength of women past and present.

Film, panels and museum access

Hosted by the West Country Women Awards in partnership with The Women’s Centre Cornwall, the event will include a 30-minute documentary screening, a live panel discussion featuring women with lived experience, and exclusive access to the Daphne du Maurier exhibition and the Smugglers Museum at Jamaica Inn.

Guests will hear powerful stories from women in prison, Black and minoritised women, LGBTQ+ voices and survivors of abuse, brought together in one shared space of reflection and support.

Interior Photography at Jamaica Inn on Monday 6th January 2020

Raising funds and awareness

“She Speaks” forms part of a year-long partnership between the West Country Women Awards and The Women’s Centre Cornwall, their chosen Charity of the Year.

Alexis Bowater OBE from West Country Women Awards said:
“How exciting to be able to hold an event at such a prestigious venue at the heart of history and mystery in Cornwall, and to hear about some of the most groundbreaking Cornish women of the past while raising money for the most deserving women of the present.

“It is a privilege to be able to promote our charities of the year, every year; raising awareness and vital funds for The Women’s Centre is a responsibility we take very seriously. This exclusive event will draw on the narratives and stories of the past to highlight those of the future and we hope that we will be joined by many, many, curious supporters.”

Celebrating unheard voices

The Women’s Centre Cornwall provides specialist support for women and girls living with the impact of sexual violence and domestic abuse. Services include one-to-one and peer support and help for women facing multiple disadvantages such as homelessness and discrimination.

Jackie May, CEO of The Women’s Centre Cornwall, said:
“We are always excited by opportunities for women to come together, connect and have their voices heard. We’re especially proud to be part of this powerful event in collaboration with West Country Women Awards, which will illuminate women’s stories in a celebration of survival and solidarity. At The Women’s Centre Cornwall, we place the voices of women and girls at the heart of everything we do, and this day is about creating space to honour those stories, particularly those too often left unheard.”