Over 60 strangers gathered in Hagglers Corner yesterday for a Christmas-themed celebration of diversity and inclusivity at Living in Sheffield‘s third ‘International Women’s Xmas Party.’

Founder of the event, Livia Barreira, 41, said: “I want it to be a safe and joyful space for women from all across the world, coming together with our British sisters as well, so it is a moment for celebration where everyone can feel like they can be themselves.”

Livia, who is a freelancer from Brazil, arrived in Sheffield nearly 10 years ago without many friends and limited English proficiency. She started the event because she felt lonely during the festive period and knew that others in the international community did, too. 

Today, she has created what she describes as a “beautiful, diverse, and inclusive community.”

Elis, who attended the event, said: “I really like the event because it feels like a safe and welcoming space, with other like-minded people who have been through the same experience as me, as an immigrant.

“And being a women and non-binary-only event, it only adds to this feeling of safety. I love that we have something like this in Sheffield.”

The tickets included an international buffet ranging from Brazilian to Nigerian food, along with a raffle and human bingo. 

Livia welcomes all women and non-binary people to attend, saying: “It doesn’t matter where you come from, your background, the colour of your skin, if you are LGBTQ+ or your age.

“Everyone is welcome, we are united with our values of inclusivity.”

In the past, Livia has run other events such as a ‘Women in Business Coffee Morning’ and ‘International Women Brunch’. 

Speaking to the group, she said: “This is not just a party, this event is much more. 

“My vision is to create a safe, inclusive, and joyful space where everyone can be themselves, especially in the current political climate, events like this become more important than ever.”

Livia added: “This is the most important legacy I want to leave to those who come after me.”