Thursday 08-03-2018 - 16:01

Today, March 8 is International Women's Day (IWD), it commemorates the movement for women's rights.

The first observance of a Women's Day was held on February 28, 1909 in New York. March 8 was suggested by the 1910 International Woman's Conference to become an "International Woman's Day."

After women gained suffrage in Soviet Russia in 1917, March 8 became a national holiday there. The socialist movement then predominantly celebrated the day until the United Nations adopted it in 1975. For the last 22 years the UN has created themes around IWD, this year’s theme is Time is Now: Rural and urban activists transforming women’s lives.

For this year’s IWD I am going to be writing about women who have inspired me throughout my journey at university.

One of the first women who inspired me at university was Dr Lindsey J. Munro, a principal lecturer in the chemistry department. She has incredible passion for the subject she teaches, and teaches in an enthusiastic, energetic and engaging way. She dedicates an unbelievable about of time to her students with the support she provides, the work she does for MMU Futures and encouraging students to gain extra-curricular skills and employability opportunities. 

The next women who inspired me was Jill Wells, Societies and Volunteering Manager at The Union. I met Jill during my first year at university when I began volunteering with The Union. She was one of the kindest and most supportive women I’d ever had the pleasure of meeting. She is passionate about student-led events, volunteering and student development and encourages everyone she meets. She has helped me become a more confident woman and has influenced the choices I have personally made, which has lead me to become a Student Officer.

The final women has inspired me is Louise Jones, a Strategic Project Manager at the University. I recently met Louise during my time as an officer, and have worked with her throughout the year. She currently manages our HEFCE projects around sexual violence and hate crime. She is incredibly passionate and knowledgeable about the work she has done. She has had an amazing career and travelled the world. I inspire to have a career like hers in the future.

We have some events planned to mark International Womens Day, but things have been busy with the Student Officer elections, so keep your eyes peeled for those coming soon!