08/03/2026
International Women's Day.....Here we go again.
It's a day when we celebrate our fellow women and what we've achieved, taking into account our disadvantages. I normally go all out on the positive note about how far we've come and how I love working within an industry that supports women, but I'm going to be frank with you, it doesn't.
I've felt the shift, the eye rolls, being told to quiet down, doors no longer being held open, being chastised, and told I don't know what I'm doing. This is not from other women, but from men, yet I'm still here, doing all I can to make a success of myself because this stuff fuels me. Tell me I can't do something and I'll give you 100 reasons why I can.
Outwith my industry, I'm seeing more violence against women, more bullying, and less investment in women's health. As the far right creeps in, more of our basic human rights are being eroded. You only need to look to America to see how women no longer have the right over their own bodies. If we're not vigilant, the same will happen here.
So why is this happening? Are we not good mothers and daughters? Are we not adding to the public purse with the hours we work? Our hard-working efforts are being seen as a threat, but here's the thing: our success is not at the cost of men's. There is room enough for us all to grow and be successful together. All we ask is to have a choice and the right to decide. Be seen, be heard, and most of all, taken seriously.
I've learned how to surround myself with great men who understand this and champion me at every opportunity. I'm thankful I've got a sensational team that has my best interests at heart. I'm very grateful, as it's not always been the case.
So, on International Women's Day, can we just be a little more tolerant and let women forge their own paths please? Contrary to popular belief, we don't want to see the downfall of men. It's quite the opposite. When we work together, we strengthen bonds and create a more inviting space to co-exist. Don't let fear and apathy break us apart. Be vigilant about what you see and hear. Call it out if it doesn't feel right. We all deserve better.
Image: Shots by Sherrie