International Womens Day 2025 is set to resonate across the globe, with various celebrations and initiatives emphasizing the urgent need for gender equality and womens empowerment. From educational programs and impactful speeches to unique community events, organizations and individuals are mobilizing to highlight womens rights and achievements.
At Blackfriars, the upcoming International Womens Day on March 8 is not just about festivities; it reflects deep educational engagements on the pressing issues women face today, both locally and internationally. Blackfriars students have committed this week to learning about significant historical and contemporary women, alongside recognizing the women who impact their own lives. Headmaster Mr. Ruggiero stated, "At Blackfriars, we believe raising men of character is about teaching respect, appreciation, and advocacy for women’s contributions across all spheres," reinforcing the idea of cultivating future leaders who champion gender equality.
The theme for International Womens Day 2025, "Accelerate Action," reflects the necessity for immediate and impactful measures toward achieving gender parity. According to research by the World Economic Forum, the road to gender equality is unacceptably long; at current rates, it may take until 2158, almost five generations from now, to achieve full parity. This highlights the urgency behind this year’s theme, which aims to drive forward collective action against systemic barriers.
Angela Collins, Blackfriars' Assistant Principal of Religious Identity and Mission, emphasized the importance of embodying this year's theme. "This International Womens Day, 'Accelerate Action' calls on us to move from conversation to concrete action - embodying a spirit of refusal to sit idly by whilst equality eludes us," she stressed. Citing historical figures like St. Catherine of Siena and Rosa Parks, she called for unity and proactive stances against current challenges, urging the school community to engage wholeheartedly with initiatives aimed at genuine change.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese echoed these sentiments during the International Women’s Day Parliamentary Breakfast, declaring, "Creating opportunity for women is more than just fairness; it drives our national success. When women march forward, our whole nation progresses." His remarks concentrated on the broader economic benefits of gender inclusion, tying womens advancement directly with national growth.
On the international front, New Zealand is taking significant strides to celebrate women and their contributions to various sectors through innovative initiatives. Media company oOh!media has launched its nationwide digital Out of Home campaign, showcasing over 25 women-owned and led businesses across Aotearoa. General Manager Nick Vile noted, "It's more than visibility - it's action. We're giving women-led businesses a megaphone to showcase their powerful impact across Aotearoa. Were proud to represent locally grown businesses from all regions." This year's campaign aligns perfectly with the global IWD theme, #AccelerateAction, reinforcing the call to uplift women and their contributions within their communities.
Among the businesses featured are those from diverse sectors, including Abel Fragrance and Untouched World. These enterprises are finding unprecedented visibility thanks to this campaign, something Katarina Rajh, founder of Get Up To Skateboard described as transformative for small businesses striving for recognition. "Being part of this campaign means everything for small businesses like mine. Visibility is key, and the support from oOh! opens doors to new audiences," Rajh stated.
The campaign is just one part of the broader movement toward amplifying womens voices and contributions globally. Women from various industries are not only being celebrated but actively encouraged to take leadership roles. Katrina Shanks, CEO of the Australian and New Zealand Institute of Insurance and Finance (ANZIIF), emphasized the significance of International Women’s Day at their upcoming forum, where influential women leaders will discuss practical methods to accelerate progress toward gender equality within the insurance sector.
Shanks remarked, "The history of International Women’s Day motivates us to continue our work; today, we acknowledge both progress made and the work still necessary to achieve gender equality." ANZIIF is not just recognizing achievements but also providing resources to raise awareness and continue discussions on gender bias and workplace equity.
The day isn’t limited to discussions and corporate initiatives; grassroots efforts are equally meaningful. For example, the Cuffe Parade Residents Association aptly organized the "Women Safety Rally" on March 2, promoting awareness for women's safety and empowerment. President Dr. Laura Dsouza affirmed, "Women’s empowerment and safety are fundamental human rights. We aim to create confident and responsible women who inspire others to demand safety and respect everywhere." Such local events serve to mobilize communities and encourage women to express their voices loud and clear.
Finally, on the technological front, the Australian Women in Security Network has reported sobering statistics indicating women make up only 17% of the cybersecurity workforce. Acknowledging the dire need for change, advocates propose initiatives focused on attracting more women to the field. These involve introducing mentorship programs, networking events, and training opportunities to encourage women to explore careers within cybersecurity.
Through collaborative efforts—whether by enlightening young students about career possibilities, promoting women-led businesses, or having prominent leaders advocate for change—International Women’s Day 2025 is set to rally communities to push boundaries for women’s rights and equality. Together, the aim is clear: action is necessary to transform the vision of equality from mere words to tangible realities.
On this International Women’s Day, may we continue to champion the cause of women’s empowerment, honoring their contributions and working collectively toward creating systems where equality truly thrives. It is about time we act decisively, ensuring every woman is celebrated not just on this day, but every day of the year.