A WOMAN who overcame incredible cultural odds to work alongside the most powerful man on earth told her story to an audience in Bolton.

Janis F Kearney, a former adviser to ex-American President Bill Clinton, told more than 60 ethnic business and professional women at the Last Drop Village Hotel about her rise from the cotton fields of Arkansas to a White House office three doors down from the President.

Bolton Council's award-winning Ethnic Minorities Business Service hosted a presentation by Ms Kearney and council Leader Barbara Ronson, who spoke about the challenges and issues which had faced them.

Ms Kearney said: "Women will only be fully recognised when their contribution to society is fully rewarded."

Cllr Ronson, the first female Leader of Bolton Council, spoke about the challenges and issues that she faced in her career.

Both the guest speakers shared various life experiences and inspired and motivated the audience to reach out and achieve their life long dreams and ambitions.

Cllr Ronson said: "Bolton Council will continue to support initiatives tailored to meet the local needs of local minority ethnic communities in particular those targeted at women.

"We hope to see more women from Ethnic Minority communities taking positive measures to lead in areas of enterprise, education and local politics."

Gabrielle McDowall, of Patagonia Cafe said: "It gave me inspiration to follow my heart and succeed in achieving my goal.

"The event was also an excellent opportunity to network with both business and professional women."