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Highland Business Women overcome Covid challenge to raise £4500 for their chosen charity


By Calum MacLeod

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Highland Business Women president Màiri Macdonald (left) presents Fèis Rois chief executive Fiona Dalgetty with a cheque for the funds raised for the charity over the last year.
Highland Business Women president Màiri Macdonald (left) presents Fèis Rois chief executive Fiona Dalgetty with a cheque for the funds raised for the charity over the last year.

The challenges of the Covid-19 crisis could not prevent Highland Business Women (HBW) from helping out chosen charity of the year, Fèis Rois.

Despite the impact of the pandemic on HBW's usual fundraising activities throughout 2020 – the networking group’s silver anniversary year – it still raised £4500 to help with the work of the traditional music and culture organisation.

The money was raised through a mix of virtual events, including the annual HBW awards which took place in August, and HBW's 25th anniversary "Dare & Donate" challenge in November which saw members take on their own personal challenges to walk, run, cycle or wild swim – each revolving around the theme of 25. Members also took part in a fundraising raffle in the run up to Christmas.

Màiri Macdonald, HBW president, said: “We’re thrilled to be presenting Fèis Rois with such a brilliant total – raised during a particularly challenging year for us all. Despite the majority of our events being held virtually, HBW members have donated generously throughout the year and we’re so grateful to them for their contributions. We’re really pleased to have been able to assist a local organisation in their efforts to promote Gaelic music and culture, at a time when the arts are in particular need of support.”

Fèis Rois chief executive, Fiona Dalgetty said: “We are incredibly grateful to have had the support of Highland Business Women over the past year. It came at a time when it was never more needed. The arts and cultural sector were one of the first to close and will be one of the last to open again post-pandemic.

"The money raised has allowed us to continue supporting freelance musicians by moving our tuition programmes online. This has also benefitted local people who have been able to remain connected through music over the past year. I am amazed at the amount of money HBW have raised at a time when it wasn't possible to hold any physical events.”

HBW members have chosen Mikeysline as their nominated charity for 2021 following a virtual charity selection event in January.


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