On March 8, 2025, communities across the globe will come together to observe International Women’s Day, celebrating the achievements and contributions of women and advocating for gender equality. This year’s events highlight initiatives aimed at empowering women and enhancing their roles both locally and globally.
Among the notable events is the seminar organized by the Armenian Relief Society (ARS) of Eastern USA, which marks its 115th anniversary alongside International Women’s Day. Scheduled from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the St. Illuminator’s Armenian Cathedral in New York, the seminar titled “Empowerment of Armenian Women and Strengthening Our Organizations” seeks to gather ARS members, friends, and supporters for discussions on progress and empowerment.
Caroline Chamavonian, Chairperson of the ARS, expressed pride in the caliber of speakers at the seminar, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to supporting the Armenian community. Attendees will enjoy presentations from influential figures such as Susan Arpajian Jolley, who will discuss generational impacts of the Armenian Genocide, and Verginie Touloumian, who focuses on contemporary challenges women face. The seminar will also feature talks on the future of the ARS presented by Taleen Lachinian, alongside insights from Ani Hotoyan-Joly, chair of the ARS Toronto chapter, and Christina Mehranbod, whose research aligns public health issues with women's empowerment.
Meanwhile, the Catholic Relief Services (CRS) maintains its focus on global initiatives for women's empowerment, particularly in regions battling poverty and violence. Their programs promote social equity for women by transforming them from being viewed merely as participants to active leaders and entrepreneurs. For example, the Activator Supportive Platform for Young Rural Entrepreneurs (ASPYRE) assists young women in Liberia by offering business training and micro-loans, helping them gain economic autonomy. “This project can build up people's lives and give them opportunity,” said Eunice Bellewah, one participant who seeks to expand her snack business after benefiting from the program.
Similarly, the CRS’s YouthBuild program works diligently to equip young men and women alike with life skills and business acumen across El Salvador and Nicaragua. Given the turbulent conditions stemming from their troubled pasts, the initiative provides pivotal opportunities for this vulnerable demographic to reshape their futures. According to Crisia Chavez, who worked her way through the program, "What you realize through this program is there are so many young people who want to improve their lives and help their communities." Her inspiring evolution from timid participant to community leader highlights the transformational effects of these initiatives.
Another significant observation will be the 7th Annual Edmonds International Women’s Day celebration, hosted by the Edmonds Waterfront Center. This year’s theme, “Accelerate Action Through Women’s Health,” emphasizes the urgent need for equity and health awareness. The event will feature health experts discussing women’s health needs alongside networking opportunities, aiming to inspire attendees and promote awareness around health-related issues.
International Women’s Day also serves as a time to advocate for improvements within women's healthcare, as emphasized by Associate Professor Magda Simonis, a Melbourne-based general practitioner and healthcare advocate. She reflects on her medical career experiences and the imperative need for equitable healthcare services. "Social determinants of health affect women deeply, and especially those living remotely. We need to provide accessible healthcare close to home," Simonis remarked, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of women’s health and the importance of advocacy.
Simonis advises young female practitioners to engage with their communities, fostering positive change. “Keep part of who you were before you became a doctor with you,” she suggests to younger female GPs, pushing for holistic practices toward improving not just individual lives but entire communities.
Thewide-ranging initiatives taking place this International Women’s Day reflect the collective goal of fostering empowerment, equity, and advocacy for women locally and worldwide. With organizations like the ARS, CRS, and dedicated professionals advocating for advancements, the focus remains on empowering women, transforming health disparities, and celebrating contributions and achievements across borders.
Across different platforms and communities, the observances of International Women’s Day 2025 are set to ignite discussions and actions toward enduring change for women everywhere.