To celebrate International Women's day, Northern Monk went into collaboration with Young Women's Trust, a feminist organisation working to achieve justice for young women. Their collaboration ‘break the bias’ is a Hazy 5.5% pale ale, it’s a bright and super accessible beer, full of citra, El dorado, Idaho 7 and Cashmere hops.As well as profits going towards Young Women's Trust, Northern Monk donated £5,000 to the organization, to show their recognition of the hard work going into the trust. The can design, shows a label that features 16 women that inspire Northern Monk and Young Women's trust. A cool addition to the design is that’s a peel and reveal sticker, and it reveals more information about the project, the people behind it and a QR code for the young women’s trust, to which you make your own donations, lovely touch.

In the theme of celebrating women who inspire others, I wanted to celebrate one of the biggest inspirations in my life, my Mother. My mum is someone who will always put others first, and she doesn’t get the recognition she deserves. From being a single mother with me, unable to really push for her passion, she always put me first, to then meeting my stepdad, having my little sister and then going back to university at the age of 49 to do midwifery, she really is a prime example of showing that if you put your mind to something and really follow your dream, age is no factor. Now, a striving woman at 52 who loves what she does, and loves helping others around her, she’s bloody amazing. I love you, Mum!

I sat down with my mum and asked her a series of questions in relation to the collaboration, as well as some personal ones for my mum specifically. 

Q1 - Why do you think it's important that a craft beer company like Northern Monk are collaborating with organisations such as the Young Women's Trust? 

"Northern Monk in particular, collaborate with many charities and already have a clear passion for rasing awareness of many diverse issues. They reach out to all generations so are an ideal way of sending out positive messages and creating a better understanding of many subjects. I think that some of the older generation are less open to change, but still are learning. Values and beliefs are often passed down through family chains. Seeing the positive messages on the craft beers about Young Women's Trust will hopefully create some change!" 

Q2 - How can we break career stereotypes about women, and why is it still a problem to this day?

"Telling real stories of women who have achieved their dreams may show that they have the strength and determination to help overcome stereotyping." 

Q3 - Young Women's Trust offers support to young women aged 18-30, who are living on low or no pay and want to build a better future. Can you offer advice or help for young women in this position? 

"It's never too late! Try and look for the positives rather than the negatives. Surviving on low budgets with less oppprtunities already shows strength and dedication. Colleges are a great way to see what training is available to help find your passion. Volunteering is a good way of getting back into a work environment, it builds confidence as well as meeting new people."

Q4 - What brings you the most joy from being a Midwife? 

"Being a Midwife is an absolute privilege, and to be a part of a family's journey makes it extra special!"

Q5 - What stresses you the most about being a Midwife? 

"Mostly being short-staffed, simple as that." 

Q6 - Last but not least, how was the beer? 

"Really good! I'm looking forward to seeing another collaboration between Northern Monk and Young Women's Trust."

A lovely note to end on, I would like to say a big thank you the @stan.shoots for getting involed with the shoot, and a huge thank you to my mum, you are a true inspiration.