International Women’s Day: Celebrating inspiring women

International Women’s Day (IWD), celebrated annually on March 8, is a global day dedicated to honouring the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It also serves as a call to action for accelerating gender equality and recognising the inspiring women who have shaped history. From trailblasing leaders to unsung heroes, International Women’s Day is a time to reflect on the progress made, celebrate the courage of women, and advocate for a more inclusive future.

The origins of International Women’s Day

The roots of International Women’s Day trace back to the early 20th century, a time of great industrial expansion and social upheaval. In 1908, 15,000 women marched through New York City demanding better pay, shorter working hours, and the right to vote. This historic event inspired the first National Woman’s Day, organised by the Socialist Party of America in 1909.

The idea of an international day for women gained momentum at the International Conference of Working Women in Copenhagen in 1910, where Clara Zetkin, a German activist, proposed the concept. The first International Women’s Day was celebrated in 1911 across Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland, with over a million people attending rallies campaigning for women’s rights.

The day gained further significance in 1917 when Russian women protested for “Bread and Peace” during World War I, leading to the granting of voting rights for women in Russia. The United Nations officially recognised International Women’s Day in 1975, and it has since become a global celebration of women’s achievements and a platform for advocacy.

Inspiring women who changed the world

International Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the extraordinary contributions of women throughout history. Here are just a few inspiring figures who have left an indelible mark on the world:

1. Marie Curie – A pioneer in science, Marie Curie was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and remains the only person to have won Nobel Prizes in two different fields (Physics and Chemistry). Her groundbreaking research on radioactivity paved the way for advancements in medicine and technology.

2. Rosa Parks – Known as the “Mother of the Civil Rights Movement”, Rosa Parks’ refusal to give up her seat on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama, in 1955 sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott and became a defining moment in the fight for racial equality.

3. Malala Yousafzai – A global advocate for girls’ education, Malala survived a Taliban assassination attempt at the age of 15 and went on to become the youngest-ever Nobel Prize laureate. Her courage continues to inspire millions worldwide.

4. Wangari Maathai – An environmentalist and political activist from Kenya, Wangari founded the Green Belt Movement, which empowered women to plant trees and combat deforestation. She was the first African woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize.

5. Indira Gandhi – A trailblazer in politics, Indira Gandhi became the first and, to date, the only female Prime Minister of India. Serving as Prime Minister for four terms, she played a pivotal role in shaping modern India, championing initiatives such as the Green Revolution, which transformed the country’s agricultural landscape. Despite facing immense challenges, her leadership during times of crisis, such as the 1971 India-Pakistan War, solidified her legacy as a strong and decisive leader. Her achievements broke barriers for women in politics and continue to inspire women in leadership roles worldwide.

The theme of International Women’s Day 2025

Each year, International Women’s Day is celebrated with a specific theme to focus efforts and raise awareness. The theme for 2025, “Accelerate Action”, emphasises the importance of creating a world where everyone has equal opportunities, regardless of gender. Equity goes beyond equality by recognising that individuals have different circumstances and allocating resources and opportunities needed to reach an equal outcome.

This theme encourages individuals and organisations to challenge stereotypes, call out discrimination, and take action to create inclusive environments. From workplaces to communities, embracing equity is essential for building a fairer and more just society.

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How to celebrate International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day is celebrated in countless ways around the world. Here are some meaningful ways to participate:

1. Support women-owned businesses – Show your support by shopping from women-owned businesses or promoting their services. This helps empower women economically and fosters entrepreneurship.

2. Educate yourself and others – Learn about the history of women’s rights and share stories of inspiring women. Education is a powerful tool for driving change.

3. Advocate for gender equality – Use your voice to advocate for policies and practices that promote gender equality in your workplace, community, or government.

4. Celebrate the women in your life – Take the time to acknowledge and appreciate the women who inspire you, whether they are family members, friends, or colleagues.

5. Participate in events – Join virtual or in-person events, such as panel discussions, workshops, or marches, to connect with others and show your support for women’s rights.

The importance of International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day is more than just a celebration; it is a reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality. Despite significant progress, women around the world still face barriers in education, employment, healthcare, and political representation. According to the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report 2022, it will take 132 years to close the global gender gap at the current rate of progress.

This day serves as a rallying cry for individuals, organisations, and governments to take action. By celebrating the achievements of women and addressing the challenges they face, we can create a world where every woman and girl has the opportunity to thrive.

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Conclusion

International Women’s Day is a time to honour the inspiring women who have shaped history and continue to make a difference in the world. From the suffragettes who fought for the right to vote to the activists advocating for equality today, women have shown incredible resilience and determination.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let us embrace equity, challenge stereotypes, and work together to build a more inclusive future. By recognising the achievements of women and supporting their aspirations, we can create a world where everyone, regardless of gender, has the opportunity to succeed.

Join the global movement this International Women’s Day and celebrate the inspiring women who make our world a better place. Together, we can achieve gender equality and empower future generations of women to reach their full potential.

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