Celebrate International Women’s Day At Work

March is the month we celebrate International Women’s Day (the 8th March to be exact). A globally recognised day with gender equality at the heart of it.  As the world celebrates all of the wonderful women that live within it, we thought we’d ask our growing MML team (made up mainly of women I might add) to join in the celebrations and reflect on women that have inspired them in their life so far.  Here’s what they came up with…

“On the outside, my Nan was the typical grandmother with soft cardigans, an array of gentle stories, and a stunning collection of old stamps… Really though, Nan was a bit of a force. In the early 1950s, she moved from North Wales to Liverpool, entirely alone, as a young woman of just 18. She left everyone behind; her village, her parents, and her boyfriend (my Grandad!) Starting fresh in Liverpool, she made friends, got a good job and joined a jazz club, what a lady. Once married, she moved to Bournemouth with my Grandad, who was a Captain in the Navy. This meant he was away most of the time and so she acted as a single mother to her two sons – quite rare back then. Growing up, I was witness to her stubborn independence and individuality, and if there’s a role model for not letting anything hold you back, it’s my Nan.” India

“My sister has always inspired me, but especially since becoming a mother, she has inspired me even more. I can only wish to be as amazing a mum as she is to my niece one day. I’m sure she will continue to inspire me as we grow old together.” Amber

“Outside of my family fold, I have always been incredibly inspired by my English Teacher from secondary school.  Her passion for English always shone during her lessons and has now become a passion of mine.  She definitely inspired my love of words, and I still use the writing structure and techniques she taught me today.” Nicola

“My inspirational lady is Pip Edwards, Co-Founder of P.E. Nation which has become a brand of sportswear that I absolutely love.  Pip is a working mum that has not only created a great brand and product, but her business accomplishments and ethics have managed to inspire me to make some changes to my own life.

After reading an article which asked her how she has catapulted her business to become such a global success, she mentioned that it was purely passion and belief for her own brand and always wearing and self-marketing everything she creates. But accomplishing so much in such a short amount of time she needed help with being a true and grounded person. To help her with this, she introduced some “non-negotiables” into her life.   I really loved this idea and was so inspired I decided to add these non-negotiables to my own life which I have stuck by for the last couple of years – they are:

Being around for all milestone events and family days – as missing these important times creates an overwhelming feeling of guilt which I find very difficult to shake off.

Workout daily – I dedicate time before work every single morning for a workout session at home.  For me, exercise is the best way to clear my head and keep me sane because, quite frankly, if I feel good, I get stuff done!” Ellie

“I’m surrounded by inspirational ladies at home and at work.  My wife is a hardworking mum alongside her role with Make Me Local, and we have an amazing daughter who will finish University this year – we know she will go on to achieve many more amazing things in her life.  My mum and sister are also confident, strong-willed women, and of course, I work alongside many talented female co-workers that each bring their own flavour and expertise to our company.  It is impossible not to be inspired by them all every single day!” Nathan

“I’m lucky to be surrounded by a family full of inspirational women whose strength, wisdom, and kindness have shaped who I am today and continue to inspire me daily.” Katie

Lucy:

“Since working at Make Me Local, I’ve been inspired by all the female entrepreneurs that we work with.  Successful women that have taken their passion and turned it into a business.  From accountants, photographers, event managers, to glaziers, designers and shop owners – our female clients never fail to impress and inspire me with their achievements.  Here’s my inspirational quote is from the Iron Lady herself:

“Being powerful is like being a lady. If you have to tell people you are, you aren’t”
Margaret Thatcher

“My mum is my greatest inspiration. She single-handedly raised four wonderful children, and I honestly don’t know how she did it! Beyond being an incredible mother, she is also the most talented person I have ever met. Her creativity and imagination shine through in her artwork, inspiring me constantly.

Another remarkable woman who has deeply influenced me is Fiona, my former manager at a media agency. She began her career as a personal assistant and worked her way up to become the Global Brand President – a true testament to confidence, drive, and determination. Balancing a demanding career with a daily commute from Staffordshire to London, all while raising two daughters, she exemplifies resilience and leadership. She is a true role model for women aspiring to leadership roles.” Hayley

If you haven’t already, why not encourage your male and female employees to participate in the conversation around gender parity and get sharing your discussions on your social media channels to recognise the day (and the meaning behind it) in your workplace.  Talking about current trends on your social media is a great way to get your audience engaged with you.

Don’t worry chaps, before you all start getting on your high horses, there is International Men’s Day too. It’s later in the year though…… ladies first and all that!