Daughter, sister, mother, wife, aunt, colleague - today’s woman wears many hats. International Woman’s Day, which is celebrated every year on the 8th of March, acknowledges the ‘economic, political and social achievements of women in the past, present and future’. It’s about celebrating the unique contributions women offer the world.
The history of International Woman's Day
In 1908, more than 15,000 female garment workers marched through the streets of New York City demanding shorter hours, better pay and voting rights. This led to a US Women’s Day and in 1910, the Socialist International meeting in Denmark established an International Women’s Day. It was held for the first time the following year and more than one million men and women attended rallies across Europe.
The theme for 2023 is "Embrace Equity"
The International Women's Day website states, "Equity isn't just a nice-to-have, it's a must-have. A focus on gender equity needs to be part of every society's DNA. And it's critical to understand the difference between equity and equality. IWD 2023's campaign theme aims to get the world talking about why "equal opportunities are no longer enough." If you would like to be involved, you can share your thoughts on your socials using #IWD2023 and #EmbraceEquity.
Celebrating the amazing women in our WW community
Our WW member community Connect is filled with many inspiring women! We asked our members to tell us who in our online member community inspires them and why. Here are some of the highlights:
Without a doubt @danielletakoko it’s amazing what Danielle has achieved but also how she juggles her life with the demands of her beautiful family. Also how Danielle includes her family in her WW journey encouraging her children to get involved and installing good habits from a young age. I love reading Danielle’s posts, she really is very inspiring to us all on connect.
- WW Member 'mothership123'
Anna Van Dyken @jovimum inspired me to start WW with her first cookbook, and has continued to inspire me with her second cookbook, the recipes she shares in Connect, and her continued presence in Connect. I’m not much of a cook so it amazes me how she creates such delicious, beautifully presented food that fits into the WW way of life.
- WW Member 'barbieh1966'
Deborah @debra-robyn-grace and Kerry @kerryc777 are both so honest and wise. They seem to post exactly what ruminates in my head so articulately.
- WW Member 'andreawestcott'
So many to choose from & for so many reasons but I reckon my inspirational person these days is Robyn @woolly1. Living her best life with confidence and doing everything she always wanted to do after losing over 60 kg.
- WW Member 'teevee14'
Michelle @michellehopkins2 is amazing. So supportive of all of our journeys. Always encourages and offers wonderful advice. Inspirational to me and many others - her journey losing 70 kg is incredible. Her maintenance journey is also just as inspiring.
- WW Member 'jigitww'
I would have to say our Coach Debbie at our Sunnybank Brisbane Workshop. She's a tremendous motivator and creates an atmosphere where everyone participates and promotes and acknowledges achievements which is very inspiring to all.
- WW Member 'kathryn2971399'
Thank you to so many beautiful women on connect. We all have a different journey. I love that I usually find a beautiful piece of wisdom right when I need it. So much support and love.
- WW Member 'jomaree75'
I'm not sure she fully realises the impact she has on peoples but Rachel @2kaygee you literally change people lives on here daily. The world is a better place because of you.
- WW Member 'rebecca3251249'
I think everyone on connect is inspiring. What makes inspirational women for me is not only what they achieve but also they love that others are achieving their goals and they raise other women up instead of tearing them down and all the community on connect do this.
- WW Member 'sendon1950'
The collective wisdom and experiences of all the women on connect is more inspirational to me. I love that everyone has a voice on here and can express their thoughts and feelings which may not be the case in everyday life! So many people from all different walks of life make this community very interesting!
- WW Member 'sweet_gigi'
3 tips to empower the women in your life
On International Women’s Day (and every other day!) it’s important to build up the ladies in your life, whether that’s your mum, sister, daughter, or even yourself. Here’s how to inspire confidence and strength…
1. Give compliments
It’s something that might not seem important, but a quick compliment can make almost anyone feel more confident and positive. And it’s not just about complimenting others: with 42 per cent of women admitting to never complimenting themselves, it’s a good idea to think a few positive thoughts about yourself, too. Raising yourself – and the women you love – up with compliments will go a long way to making everyone feel more confident.
2. Build a sense of community
Encouraging one another throughout your weight loss journeys, collaborating on healthy recipes, or even starting a project together – working with other women will build a sense of community and help you to empower each other to succeed through positive teamwork. Whatever it is, you can do it!
3. Support each other
Have a girlfriend who runs her own business? Is your mum interested in running a 5k? Does your daughter have a school play coming up? Support them by taking an interest in their activities – whether that means offering to help out or just encouraging them along the way. Not only will it inspire confidence in them and their ventures, it could also help you feel more positive in yourself.