For over a century International Women’s Day (IWD) has been a global day (March 8) to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It’s also a day that can remind us to mark a call to action for accelerating women's equality everywhere.

Steinem, world-renowned feminist, journalist and activist once explained "The story of women's struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist nor to any one organization but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights."

Regardless of your gender, background, or economic status, International Women's Day is your day to do what you can to truly make a positive difference for women.

We recognise that the global awareness of this day comes different definitions and perceptions, so we thought it’s important to share some of the different meanings that International Women’s Day hold for some of our staff. We asked them simply, what does International Women’s Day mean to you and here’s what they had to say.

Pennie

For me, International Women’s Day is a day remember how far we have come in narrowing the gender equality gap, whilst realising how far we have to go until we truly achieve equality for women worldwide.

I grew up in a time where my mother was not allowed to return to the workforce after she had a child.

As a result of the fight for women’s rights and equality I’ve been able to seize opportunities simply not available to women my mother’s age. As a mother to two strong independent women I rejoice in how much society has changed in my lifetime and look forward to all the future offers.

 

Chloe

To me it means taking a moment to reflect on our journey to achieving equality while also putting inspiring women in the spotlight for the difference they are making.  

 

Matt

International Women’s Day is a day to not only recognise and highlight the achievements of the amazing women in our lives but raises awareness of gender equality in our world.  I’ve had the privilege of working with a number of strong knowledgeable female leaders in my working career. THANK YOU to you all! 

 

Ros

International Women’s Day is about celebrating the achievements of women across the world.  It’s also a united platform focusing on issues for women such as equality in the workplace; opportunity and pay.

 

Kelly

Recognition and equality throughout the workforce and how that has transformed ‘home life’ for women. A day to recognise an era that once was, in order to move forward and change the stigma of women contributing to the workforce.