International Women’s Day 2025: Accelerating Action in the UK

18 Feb International Women’s Day 2025: Accelerating Action in the UK

International Women’s Day is celebrated on March 8th of each year, and it is a powerful movement that unites people from all backgrounds. IWD encourages deep reflection on the current challenges faced, inspires meaningful action, and actively works toward removing barriers in the way of women. Its aim is a fairer, more equal world where women of all ages can reach their full potential in every aspect of life.

IWD also allows for the moment of introspection of gender equality both from the UK perspective and in the global arena. Though much has been achieved in the decades since it was initiated, much more needs to be done. While recognising the achievements so far, a lot more consistent effort is required for the changes to become permanent.

Theme Focus: Accelerate Action

The 2025 theme, “Accelerate Action,” is an urgent call. Progress has been too slow. Women in the UK still face obstacles. These obstacles limit their potential at work and in other aspects of life. We need to challenge discrimination and promote inclusion. It is important to also empower women to take on leadership roles.

Organisations can show their commitment. They can host events with female speakers. Inviting someone who has broken barriers or achieved success can make a powerful statement. 

The Current Situation in the UK: A Reality Check

The UK still has an issue of a gender pay gap. Women typically make less money doing the same work as men, according to the data. Women continue to face disadvantages in the workplace due to systemic restrictions, which are highlighted by this ongoing imbalance. At this rate, it may take many years to achieve complete gender equality, which will delay progress toward a fairer society. This shows that urgent and sustained action is necessary, including stronger policies, transparent reporting, and cultural shifts to challenge deep-rooted biases.

It’s crucial to listen to women who have achieved success. It’s important to listen to successful women. They can inspire action and significant change by sharing their knowledge, perspectives, and methods for combating discrimination in the workplace. It can be incredibly inspiring to hear about those who have overcome obstacles, hardships, and defied expectations; it can inspire others to fight for a more just future.

Actions for Businesses in the UK: Leading the Charge

Businesses in the UK can play a significant role in accelerating gender equality. Here are some actions they can take:

• Use inclusive hiring practices. It all starts with attracting a diverse pool of qualified female candidates.
• Equal pay is essential. Regularly review your pay scales to identify and address any gender pay gaps. Be transparent about your pay policies and ensure fairness for all employees.
• Support women in leadership positions. Providing mentorship and leadership training opportunities could help women overcome some of the glass ceilings.
• Tackle workplace harassment. Implement robust policies to prevent and address any instances of harassment or discrimination.

By prioritising these actions, businesses can help create a more equitable and inclusive workplace. 

Get Involved in IWD 2025 in the UK

There are numerous events taking place across the UK to mark IWD. Look out for local events and consider getting involved. Many community groups and organisations host events. These may include discussions, workshops, and celebrations.

IWD 2025 presents a chance for action. Businesses can host events with female speakers. This will encourage change and give women’s voices a greater influence. Gaining gender equality will take a team effort. Let us dismantle the walls. Let’s build a society in which all UK women can prosper.

Outstanding Female Speakers To Inspire

As humans, we magnify voices for a ripple that really nudges the systems forward. So, personal stories, especially when narrated by women who have overcome societal and professional barriers, stir more real change into motivating the audience to action. We can recommend some outstanding female speakers including the following:

• Space scientist and educator, Dame Maggie Aderin-Pocock,
• Football hero and Queen of the Jungle Jill Scott MBE,
• Sports broadcaster and rugby World Cup winner, Maggie Alphonsi MBE,
• Vice Chair West Ham & aide to Lord Sugar, Baroness Karren Brady,
• Entrepreneur and Dragon Den star, Deborah Meaden,
• Former Editor Vogue, Alex Shulman,
• Golden girl of the Paralympics and presenter, Ellie Simmonds OBE,
• Award winning broadcaster and Parliamentarian, Baroness Floella Benjamin,
• Co founder Green & Blacks, Jo Fairley,
• Recently appointed first ever female Chair of the British Olympic Association, Baroness Katherine Grainger,
• Presenter and activist, Katie Piper OBE,
• Olympic icon and entrepreneur, Dame Kelly Holmes MBE
• Named as No 1 Most Influential Woman in UK Tech by Computer Weekly, Anne-Marie Imafidon MBE
• Comedian, best-selling author and leading diversity speaker, Shaparak Khorsandi

Get in Touch

If you need help finding the perfect female speakers for your event, look no further than The Right Address. Call us now on +44(0)1895 827 800 to discuss your requirements.