I N T E R N AT I O N A L W O M E N S D AY
This year’s theme of International Women’s Day (IWD) is #InspireInclusion. When we inspire others to understand and value women’s inclusion, we forge a better world. And when women themselves are inspired to be included, there’s a sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment. By TESS DE KLERK
IWD SPECIAL
❛What advice would you give your younger self ?❜
W
ith well over a century of history and change, the first International Women’s Day was held in March 1911. IWD isn’t country, group or organisation-specific. It’s a day of collective global activism and celebration that belongs to all those committed to forging women’s equality. World-renowned feminist, journalist and activist, Gloria Steinem, reportedly once explained: “The story of women’s struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist nor to any one organisation but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights.”
❛❛ The story of women’s
struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist nor to any one organisation but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights. ❜❜
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International Women’s Day 2024 marks another significant milestone in the ongoing pursuit of gender equality and women’s empowerment worldwide. As the world commemorates this day on March 8th, the theme of “Inspire Inclusion” is a rallying call to continue to strive to create a world where every woman, regardless of her background, identity, or circumstance, feels valued, respected and empowered to fully participate in all aspects of society. As the world comes together to commemorate this IWD, the spotlight is on the ways in which inclusion can be championed and barriers dismantled. It’s a moment to celebrate diversity and recognise the unique contributions of women from all walks of life. Inspiring inclusion means fostering environments where women are not only welcomed but actively encouraged to thrive. It requires challenging entrenched biases, dismantling discriminatory practices, and creating opportunities for meaningful participation and leadership. From the boardroom to the classroom; from the halls of government to the corridors of activism, inclusivity must be at the forefront of our efforts. With this in mind, while celebrating International Women’s Day, and in order to help #InspireInclusion, Dynamic asked six professional business women what advice they might offer to the young woman they once were at the start of their careers.