“International Women’s Day is celebrated in many countries around the world. It is a day when women are recognized for their achievements without regard to divisions, whether national, ethnic, linguistic, cultural, economic or political. It is an occasion for looking back on past struggles and accomplishments, and more importantly, for looking ahead to the untapped potential and opportunities that await future generations of women.” from: www.un.org/womenwatch/feature/iwd/history.html

This year, as it has been since the early 1900s, International Women’s Day is on 8 March. There will be events taking place around the world to celebrate the day. In Sheffield, you can attend a range of events organised by Sheffield Hallam Union of Students, Sheffield City Council and by other local organisations. This includes a Carnival in Hallam Square on Friday 7 March with music, information, a local women’s choir and carnival games, a talk at SHU by Dame Athene Donald, Professor of Experimental Physics on 14 March and a day of celebrations organised by Sheffield City Council, on Saturday 8 March.

So if you want to be inspired by some great women and learn more about women’s achievements and journeys then come along to some of the events. You can find out more on the International Women’s Day website here.