International Women’s Day (IWD) has grown significantly in recent years. From its inception in 1911, it’s changed from a simple mark on the calendar to a major focus for businesses across the world.
As EDI strategies take centre stage, gender parity has become a big area of focus. With only 10.4% of CEO roles held by women in Fortune 500 companies, there is a strong push to change this statistic. The importance of diversity of thought and increasing the representation of women in C-suite roles has never been more important. And, celebrating International Women’s Day provides the perfect opportunity to really shout about challenges and celebrate progress.
What is International Women’s Day?
International Women’s Day is an international movement tackling all things gender equality. It’s a day to celebrate the achievements of women – but it also acknowledges the challenges they still face, particularly in the workplace.
It’s observed annually on 8th March and encourages people worldwide to raise awareness and really ‘give to gain’ to break down barriers that impede gender equality. The day is not just about women but involves everyone (regardless of gender) working together to build a more inclusive world to live in.
This year’s theme #GiveToGain
The theme for International Women’s Day 2026 is “Give To Gain.”
This theme centres on the idea that supporting women and girls creates wider benefits for society as a whole. “Give To Gain” promotes contribution in various forms, including time, funding, mentoring, advocacy, education and raising awareness.
The campaign encourages people to think about how they can offer support within their own environments; whether that involves sharing knowledge, providing opportunities, challenging discrimination, or supporting organisations that work to advance gender equality.
Here is what the organisation driving the movement says about this year’s theme:
“The IWD 2026 Give To Gain Campaign encourages a mindset of generosity and collaboration.
Give To Gain emphasizes the power of reciprocity and support. When people, organizations, and communities give generously, opportunities and support for women increase. Giving is not a subtraction, it’s intentional multiplication. When women thrive, we all rise.
Whether through donations, knowledge, resources, infrastructure, visibility, advocacy, education, training, mentoring, or time, contributing to women’s advancement helps create a more supportive and interconnected world.”
International Women’s Day
Five ways to celebrate International Women’s Day in your organisation
International Women’s Day is something every organisation should recognise. Here are just a few ways you can do just that:
1. Recognise #IWD2026
It might seem like a small gesture, but starting with the basics is hugely important. Start by creating some internal communications and messaging about the significance of IWD. This might include sharing the theme for 2026, “Give to Gain,” and its implications for the workplace. You can also include facts and statistics on gender equality to help employees understand the gravity of the movement. Here are a few statistics to share about women in the workplace for IWD 2026:
- Gender pay gap: In 2023, the gender pay gap in the UK was 7.7% for full-time employees and 14.3% for all employees.
- Part-time work: 23% of women in employment are in part-time work, compared with 27.56% of men.
- Unpaid care work: Women spend 12.65% of their time on unpaid domestic and care work, compared with 6.97% of time for men.
- Job stability: 75% of women are still employed at the same company as they were last year, compared to only 62% of men.
- Pay raises: In 2023, 30% of women received pay raises compared to 34% of men.
- Promotions: Women constitute the majority of those promoted without salary increases.
Acknowledging IWD sends a message that your business values gender equality and champions change in this space.
2. Create an Employee Resource Group
One of the most effective ways to support women in the workplace is by giving them a voice and a network through an Employee Resource Group (ERG).
ERGs provide women with a space to connect and also empower one another. It helps to really build a sense of community where individuals can discuss challenges like career development, and that all important work-life balance.
An ERG can also offer guidance to management through providing suggestions and advice about the barriers women face.
3. Recognise the achievements of women inside your business
Celebrating the women who contribute to your company’s success is a powerful gesture on International Women’s Day.
Take the time to highlight the achievements of female employees in various roles, from entry level roles all the way up to leadership positions.
You might like to circulate an internal newsletter, do some social media shoutouts, or even host a dedicated event for IWD this year. Remember – this recognition should highlight contributions from all levels and teams within your business.
4. Launch a women’s-only mentoring programme
Mentoring plays a big role in developing the next generation of leaders.
A targeted mentoring programme can provide a safe space for women to develop essential skills. Programmes like these can be particularly valuable in combating issues like imposter syndrome, which many women experience, especially in male-dominated industries.
This investment in women’s development shows a commitment to their success and helps close the gender gap, particularly in senior roles.
5. Invite inspirational women speakers
An impactful way to inspire and engage your workforce is by inviting female leaders to speak on International Women’s Day. Whether your team work onsite or remotely, hearing firsthand accounts of women who have overcome barriers and achieved great success can be hugely motivating.
Better yet – why not consider asking female leaders from within your own organisation. Having someone from within the company share their journey can create a more personal connection and inspire employees to recognise the possibilities for growth within their own career paths.
“Do we still need an International Women’s Day?
International Women’s Day
There is no place for complacency.”
How we can help you celebrate International Women’s Day
We help organisations turn intention into action, from policy development and pay equity reviews to leadership development and inclusive culture initiatives.
Contact us today on 0330 223 5253 or connect@fitzgeraldhr.co.uk
Key takeaways on celebrating International Women’s Day at work:
- International Women’s Day (8th March) is a global movement focused on celebrating women’s achievements and progressing gender equality.
- The 2026 theme, #GiveToGain, highlights the importance of contributing time, resources, advocacy and support to advance women in the workplace and beyond.
- Recognising IWD internally sends a clear message that your organisation values inclusion and gender parity.
- Practical initiatives (such as Employee Resource Groups, mentoring programmes and guest speakers) can create meaningful and lasting impact.
- Celebrating and visibly recognising the achievements of women at all levels helps reinforce an inclusive culture.
- Small, consistent actions taken throughout the year are just as important as activity on 8th March itself.
- Organisations that actively support gender equality benefit from broader perspectives, stronger leadership pipelines and improved employee engagement.
