SHILLONG: In celebration of International Women’s Day, an inspiring gathering titled “Made of Her” brought together women entrepreneurs, artists, professionals and community members for an afternoon of conversation, creativity and shared experiences.
The event, organised by Catapult x Reading Room, was hosted at BiSCI.io – Your Alt Space in Laitumkhrah, creating a vibrant environment that celebrated women’s voices and contributions.
The event began earlier in the day with an exhibition space that highlighted women-led initiatives and local enterprises. Visitors explored a diverse range of stalls featuring home-based businesses, handcrafted products, photography, and locally produced goods. The space also served as a platform for emerging creatives and entrepreneurs.
Among the featured exhibitions was a photography showcase by Baia Marbaniang and an art exhibition by Megan Gail, which added visual depth to the event’s celebration of women’s creative expression.
Several local brands also participated in the marketplace segment, including With Luv Lucy & Natz, Gemz by Psy (Guwahati), Bee Natural, HQI Millets, and Crochet by V, each presenting products that reflected the growing presence of women-led enterprises in the region.
The formal programme opened with an introduction to the theme of the event and an overview of the experiences planned throughout the day. One of the most engaging elements was an interactive installation titled “Letter to My Younger Self.” Participants were invited to reflect on their journeys by writing messages to their younger selves, creating a collective space of reflection, encouragement and personal storytelling.
At the heart of the event were moderated speaker sessions featuring a group of women who shared their professional and personal journeys. Speakers Daphimanroi Warjri, Janessaline Pynrope, Mayfereen Rynthatiang, Pinky Maring, and Rifiness Warjri offered insights into their experiences navigating their respective fields.
The conversations touched on themes of starting out, overcoming challenges, resilience, growth, leadership, and the evolving role of women within communities. Through candid discussions and reflections, the speakers highlighted how personal experiences often shape professional paths and community impact.
As the evening unfolded, the event transitioned into a more relaxed creative session featuring live music by Rosariia L Kharmih. The informal gathering also included storytelling, poetry, and networking, allowing participants to continue meaningful conversations in a welcoming and creative atmosphere.
By bringing together dialogue, art, entrepreneurship and community engagement, “Made of Her” created a space for reflection and connection. The event not only celebrated International Women’s Day but also highlighted the strength, diversity and contributions of women across different walks of life, reinforcing the importance of creating platforms where women’s voices and stories can be shared and celebrated.
