In a bold move to celebrate resilience and raise vital funds, a group of more than 30 women from across the West Midlands are preparing to step in front of the camera for a unique and empowering charity calendar.
Stepping Out of Comfort Zones for a Cause
The initiative, spearheaded by the Ladies First Professional Development Network, will see participants aged between 18 and 80 strike a series of cheeky and sophisticated poses. The project aims to build confidence while supporting a host of nominated local and national charities.
Among the well-known faces taking part is former TV newsreader Suzanne Virdee, best known for co-presenting BBC's Midlands Today for over a decade. The calendar is the brainchild of Tracey McAtamney, who has led the West Midlands-based Ladies First network for ten years.
Inspiring Stories Behind Every Pose
Tracey, who turns 60 this year, explained the deeper motivation behind the project. "As women, many of us struggle with confidence and with feeling comfortable in our own skin," she said. "Every woman featured in this calendar has a personal story. They have experienced loss, emotional trauma, divorce, illness, the menopause, and caring responsibilities."
She hopes that participating will help each woman embrace her individuality. "Each photo represents a unique story and serves as a celebration of resilience, individuality, and everything that makes a woman extraordinary," Tracey added.
Suzanne Virdee has chosen to support WAITS (Women Acting in Today’s Society), a Birmingham-based charity. "I am passionate about helping to empower all women to flourish," she stated. "This is a brilliant and fun way to do it, and I'm thrilled to be able to shine a light on the different issues that stop women reaching their full potential."
A Grand Reveal for Vital Charities
The photoshoots will take place this spring at the Mallory Court Hotel & Spa in Leamington Spa. The calendar will then be unveiled at a stylish red-carpet event at The Birmingham Repertory Theatre later in the year.
The project is supported by a dedicated team including Amanda Chalmers, Jane Collier of Visually Virtual Photography, and Bianca Rodrigues-Perry. A wide range of charities will benefit from the funds raised, including:
- Prostate Cancer UK
- Coventry, Warwickshire & Worcestershire Mind
- Teenage Cancer Trust
- Marie Curie Hospice, Solihull
- Women’s Aid
- The Brain Tumour Charity
Other participants include retired Coventry MP Colleen Fletcher OBE and Pat Hemmings, wife of former Drifters star Roy. The youngest contributors are twins Stacey and Tracey William.
Ladies First, which organises the project, runs monthly meetings to inspire, inform, and introduce women from all backgrounds. Businesses or sponsors interested in supporting the calendar are encouraged to contact Tracey McAtamney directly.
