Happy International Women’s Day!
Twenty years ago, I became a stroke survivor. It was the beginning of a journey I never asked for, but one that has shaped me inways I’m still discovering. Recovery was not just about learning to move, speak and trust my body again. It was about learning who I was becoming and through every stage of that journey, I have been profoundly empowered by the women in my life.
I stand here today because of those women.
My sisters, who never let me forget my strength, even when I couldn’t see it myself. My nieces, who brought light, laughter, and hope into days that felt heavy. My aunties, whose quiet wisdom and unwavering support grounded me. My girlfriends who showed up with patience, humour, honesty, and love, reminding me that I was still me, just changed. And the many other women who stepped in, lifted me up, and walked beside me when the path felt uncertain.
These women didn’t try to fix me. They believed in me. They gave me space to struggle and strength to keep going. They celebrated the smallest victories as if they were milestones, and on the hardest days, they simply stayed.
Because of them, I learned that empowerment doesn’t always come from independence, but from feeling connected, seen, supported and accepted exactly as you are. Their belief in me helped rebuild my confidence, my voice, and my sense of purpose. They reminded me that resilience can be gentle and courage can be shared.
On this International Women’s Day, I celebrate the power of women supporting women. I honour the women who helped me heal, grow, and reclaim my life in ways I never imagined. I honour my journey, my survival, and the incredible network of women who continue to empower me every single day.
The IWD 2026 Give To Gain Campaign encourages a mindset of generosity and collaboration.
Give To Gain emphasises the power of reciprocity and support. When people, organisations, 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.
What will you Give to Gain gender equality?
Happy International Women’s Day to the women who lift, lead, love, and inspire. Today, and always.
