International Women’s Day 2025

IWD 2025 Theme: #AccelerateAction for gender equality

Colleagues from around the world joined together to bring HOPE and positive energy to the challenges we face on a day-to-day basis.

YOU are the difference and we are Better Together!

 

SUSAN LEPLAE MILLER, FOUNDER PIECES OF I -

Chicago, IL (USA)

I am a Women’s Health Catalyst who accelerates action by building partnerships and tools that empower people with knowledge and confidence to have more collaborative conversations with their healthcare team.

Authenticity, compassionate care and respect for all carries through my mantra:

“Know Your Value, Live Your Values”

Loree Dittrich - Calgary, Alberta (Canada)

I choose to be a witness through my example and my writings to support and encourage other women and my own 4 daughters and grandchildren. This, I feel is necessary for future generations to come. A voice with choice for all and empowerment, knowing the value of our worth as women. And more than ever to encourage respect, acceptance, dignity and love for all.

Patrick Tinney - Ontario, (CanadA)

If there are no women, there cannot be any men. I always support women in business and else where. Right now, I am helping single moms and moms get better mortgage rates so, they do not lose their homes. This at my cost. Bless you ladies.

Martin StarK - Sydney, NSW, (AustraliA)

I will accelerate gender equity by continuing to speak up about discrimination and working hard to remove barriers in combat sports.

Stacy cassoN - Hollywood, FLorida (USA)

I will challenge the norms at work asking for us to explore outcomes along gender and intersectional lines.


Ekua Cant - London (U.K.)

I choose to challenge the status quo by encouraging diverse speakers and professionals to use their voice and to be visible in sharing their powerful stories, expertise, and insights to educate, inform and impact the world.

My mantra is "Be Bold, Be Brave, Back Yourself and Be Your No.1 Cheerleader!".

Sumara MeerS -

NSW (Australia)

This year, with a federal election coming up in Australia, I plan to be actively speaking online about politics. I want to promote the ideals of the Greens and Independents here, because they have policies that are far more equitable to women, families and LGBTQ+ people than the two major parties.

Professor Vince Pizzoni - Ludlow, ShropshirE (U.K.)

My mission in life is to inspire and motivate future generations into sustainable careers. I will continue to mentor and sponsor 1000s of women and others from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds into STEM careers and be an ally that walks the talk. As part of my #AccelerateAction focus this year I'll also be delivering keynote speeches and chairing panel sessions globally to bring the message of the importance of gender equity, diversity and inclusion to many companies, countries and individuals.

Francisco Oller Garcia - Tampa, fl (USA)

I’m committed to #AccelerateAction by amplifying the voices of women across all industries ensuring their insights and contributions are recognized in discussions, reports and publications. I will also champion, mentor and support women in tech and marketing operations, sharing knowledge and opportunities to help them advance in their careers.

Taylor Tonkinson - New York, NY (USA)

Experience is an asset, not a limitation. I #AccelerateAction by creating pathways for women in their encore careers—helping them stay engaged, valued, and financially secure in a rapidly evolving job market. By fostering opportunities where younger and older generations collaborate, we unlock innovation, mentorship, and a more inclusive future of work where wisdom and fresh perspectives thrive together.

Eben Tobias Greene - Seattle, WA (USA)

Self trust and respect makes it easier to uplift others with loving, positive energy. Equality is deeply rooted in unity. I choose to honor women and their power by creating space for authentic expression and connection.

Kaushi Biddappa - Bengaluru, Karnataka (India)

As a ‘Personal Brand Coach’ I choose to challenge myself to encourage people to embrace the journey of ‘self-discovery’, which is foundational to living their version of success.

Sharon Chow - (Malaysia)

Advocacy towards self-care and self nurturing opens the window to curating a lifestyle that serves the mind, body and soul. When our tank is full and our vision is clear, we get closer to #AccelerateAction towards closing the gaps of adversity we see today. It all begins with our reflections & awareness towards mindful acts in the present NOW.

Professor Pete Alexander- Greater SeattlE. WA (USA)

I am proud to support gender equality by encouraging inclusive policies, creating opportunities, and contributing to meaningful change!

Nadege Minois - Pau (France)

To #AccelerateAction in advancing gender equity and driving impactful change, I will endeavour to equip as many women project managers as I can with the communication skills they need.

Alex LoH - (Singapore)

I am championing the working-Dad being around and present for the kids. Not just for special occasions but at least 50% of the time. Mums and Dads providing equal opportunities to excel in life.

Aishwariya Jayakumar - Bangalore (India)

By endorsing inclusive, open, dynamic, and creative consciousness in communities around the world. Would like to imbibe all above values in my future endeavors. Happy International Women's Day!

Rhonda L. Bowen - Nettetal, NRW (GermanY)

The dictionary says that equity means "fairness or justice in the way people are treatedoften, specifically : freedom from disparities in the way people of different races, genders, etc. are treated." I believe in Wispiration in Action. We give and receive wisdom in our interactions; we become inspired by those insights; we then go out into our world and put those insights into action. Impactful change comes from co-creating the solutions every person in our world needs to be treated fairly in their circumstances. We cooperate with others to find the solutions that make their biggest impact.

Ipek Williamson - Sarnia, Ontario, (Canada)

As one who believes in equity, equality, and fairness, I champion a world where authenticity is valued, diverse voices are amplified, and barriers to self-expression are dismantled. Through advocacy, fostering psychological safety, and driving tangible action, I am committed to creating meaningful, lasting change

Nada Hanafi - San Jose, CA (USA)

Women's health advocacy and educational events targeting female and minority founders. Working with trade associations and FDA directly to advance women's health priorties.

Colin D. Smith - London (U.K.)

I have embodied equality into my work as The Listener ... you are all equal human beings, period.

Dennis Pitocco - Tampa, FL (USA)

I'll champion gender equity by doing my very best to dismantle systemic barriers and amplifying marginalized voices in every space I inhabit. My commitment extends beyond words to concrete actions—consistently challenging inequitable practices until equal opportunity becomes our lived reality rather than our distant aspiration.

Claudia Wyatt - Davenport, IA (USA)

I am inspiring and empowering people to unmute themselves and take their power back!

Paul Haury - Seattle, WA (USA)

In my belonging work, I choose not to wash the gender differences away. They offer us differing perspectives and strengths to solve the problems we face along the path to our aspirations, together. Instead of being gender neutral, I prefer gender empowered action and thought. And along with that, not gender pigeonholed.

Susan Hall - Baltimore, MD (USA)

I love working with smart, strong women to help them tap into their best- by sharing tools for leading with authenticity, strength and confidence.

Christine Passo - Norfolk, VA (USA)

Empowering midlife women to break free from the pain of gender inequality and generational trauma ignites immediate transformation—fueling unquestionable confidence and self-belief.

When a woman reclaims her inner strength, she doesn’t just change her own life—she sparks a ripple effect of change that extends far beyond herself.

Roshni Sharma-Fleming - Toronto, ON (Canada)

To accelerate action in advancing gender equity, we must heal the Divine Feminine voice. We must uplift women’s stories, amplify their leadership, and create spaces where their wisdom and power are honored.

True change happens when we dismantle limiting narratives forged in societal programming surrounding the role of women and invest in women's well-being.

Diane Wyzga -

Greenbank, Whidbey Island, Wa (USA)

Mentoring & showcasing women who are committed to using their voice & sharing their story to connect, inspire & unbalance the status quo so that by our collective example we encourage other women to show up - say what they mean - mean what they say - know what they stand for & what they won't stand for.

Stories beckon us in - confidence & courage are contagious!

Rita Ernst - Louisville, KY (USA)

My new podcast, 'the story i'm telling myself', features women and teaches mindset shifts to overcome self-limiting thoughts, assumptions, and beliefs.

We are emphasizing the strength and resilience of feminine energy.

Joanne Morton - Savannah, GA (USA)

With the FCW Society Podcast, we’re amplifying the voices of women and gender-expansive individuals who are breaking barriers, challenging the status quo, and creating real change. By sharing their stories, insights, and expertise, we’re building a powerful community that educates, inspires, and mobilizes listeners to take meaningful action. We’re committed to #AccelerateAction by spotlighting grassroots leaders, activists, and artists, providing them with a platform to reach a wider audience, and fostering conversations that drive impactful change in gender equity, representation, and economic justice. Every episode is a step toward a more empowered, inclusive future.

Enrique Acosta Gonzalez - Orlando, FL (USA)

In 2025, I’m committed to #AccelerateAction by advocating for gender equity through empowering leadership development programs, fostering inclusive environments, and amplifying diverse voices.

Lynnaire Johnston - Dunedin, Otago (New Zealand)

I host LinkedIn livestream events which reach a wide audience making it an ideal platform for discussing gender equity in a public setting. I have a particular interest in ageism + gender so we'll run a show that seeks diverse opinions and ideas from the audience.

Rasie Bamigbade - Sunshine Coast, BC (Canada)

As a leadership coach, author, and speaker, I am committed to #AccelerateAction in advancing gender equity by equipping individuals with the mindset and tools to lead with confidence. Through my self-help books and coaching, I empower people and especially women to gain clarity, build consistency, and take bold steps toward their goals.

I collaborate inclusively, fostering diverse conversations that drive real change in workplaces and communities. By integrating self-leadership principles with DEI advocacy, I strive to create lasting impact and opportunities for all.

Sibel Terhaar - Minneapolis, MN (USA)


A kindness activist, motivational influencer, and international author known for her inspirational books: *Chasing Kindness Against the Wind* and *Heal the World with Kindness*

Sarah Heath - Itzac (France)

Where focus goes, energy flows. By using our headspace, time and skills on positively working towards gender equity rather than negatively focusing on the patriarchy, we can create incredible energy towards creating change. Let's keep the spotlight on the feminist good stuff.

Annalieza Landa - Hessle, East Yorkshire (U.K.)

To #AccelerateAction in 2025, I am running three paid transformative challenges on my community platform - one to help women to find the fearless feminine leader within them, one to help men to become proactive male allies and one to help senior leaders to build an inclusive workplace - or test how well they’ve achieved it!

I will donate 50% of the challenge profits to the charity ActionAid

Dr. Colleen Saringer - Atlanta, GA (USA)

“I'm going to continue to be the reason someone believes in the goodness of people.” (Quote by Roy T. Bennett)

Julie Hruska - New York, NY (USA)

Change happens when bold action meets unwavering commitment. This year, I choose to #AccelerateAction by breaking barriers, amplifying my impact, and empowering women through fearless leadership.

Jenny Haase - Draper, UT (USA)

I work to #AccelerateAction and drive impactful change locally, through my community and volunteer work, and on a wider scale, by helping to develop well-rounded, human-centered leaders and values-centered human beings. Through my “passion project” Kindness from the Heart, my mission is to help turn hearts and minds to kindness, and to share a compelling vision globally for creating a more compassionate, caring and kinder world for all.

Vicki J O'Grady-Longo - Nutley, NJ (USA)

Let's spark change with joy! Choosing joy empowers us to tackle challenges with open hearts and enlightened minds.

We #AccelerateAction for gender equity by joyfully amplifying ALL voices and building inclusive spaces of belonging!

Gerda Smith - George (South Africa)

I am part of an art group (5 women). We run our own gallery, and give young students a chance to experience the art world (making art, as well as the business side).

We have more female students at the moment, but we are not excluding boys.

Juliet Bellagambi - London (England)

To advance the conversations about gender equity in my work, lead some training on this as well as host a special #iwd2025 PetalTalks event.

Shaheda Daya - (Zambia)

We are all unique beautiful souls full of endless possibilities. Coming back to our essence and thriving in that space is my wish for all.

Wendy Babcock - Hartford, WI (USA)

I provide a platform to help Amplify women’s voices and give power to their transformational stories. Through storytelling, we see ourselves in one another and that encourages us to speak up and be heard. It can also build a bridge between all of us to help us understand each other in a new way. Too many times we stay silent and don't use our voices for fear of judgement or upsetting others. I want to encourage women to tell their stories, share them and go out and inspire the world!

Doug Miller -

Chicago, IL (USA)


I will continue working to focus on being present in the moment, seeing & welcoming others for who they are and where they are on their journey, helping them as best I can in the moment & beyond. A rising tide lifts all boats - together we can lift each other.

 

“International Women's Day (March 8) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women's equality.

IWD has occurred for well over a century, with the first IWD gathering in 1911 supported by over a million people. Today, IWD belongs to all groups collectively everywhere. IWD is not country, group or organization specific.”

#IWD2025 #AccelerateAction

For more information about the day, theme, and events happening around the world, please visit the website.