According to the UN, “this year’s theme calls for action that can unlock equal rights, power and opportunities for all and a feminist future where no one is left behind. Central to this vision is empowering the next generation—youth, particularly young women and adolescent girls—as catalysts for lasting change.”
Take a look at what Yorkshire Soroptimists did in support of IWD 2025:-
SI Keighley – IWD walk with other local SI members, Keighley Healthy Living and girls from a local primary school. Then a talk on the soft options for keeping safe followed by a lovely simple lunch – splendid.
SI Bingley and SI Bradford – Members from Bingley and Bradford attended an IWD event organised by Rotary International.
SI Harrogate & District – It was privilege, on the eve of International Women’s Day, to listen to Sheila Pantin share the story of her life. Sheila is 101 yrs old, she narrowly missed death in an ammunition factory in the early 1940’s. She signed up for the ATS and achieved the rank of sergeant – to many a man’s suprise. Her service included caring for women and children survivors from Belsen Concentration Camp. After the war Sheila trained as a PE teacher. After the death of her husband Sheila spent her time in the WRVS working in Germany, Northern Ireland and Hong Kong. She was instrumental in helping Nepalese Women, married to Ghurka soldiers, learn how to swim. A truly remarkable woman who has lived a life of service.
SI Richmond & Dales – Following the success of the previous year, A second exhibition was held to mark International Women’s Day. The title of the exhibition was “Women of Richmondshire”. It was displayed at the Richmond Town Hall on Friday, 7th March. It celebrated over 100 women who have contributed to the community – both past and present – with a display of photos and short biographies of each individual or team featured. The event was opened by Richmond’s lady Town Crier. Entrance was free, with light refreshments served. Almost 100 people attended this successful event and the raffle raised £95.
SI Selby – Members joined Selby Town Council, IDAS (Independent Domestic Abuse Services) and National Council of Women Great Britain at an IWD event with ‘inspiring women doing brilliant things in their communities every day.’
SI Sheffield – A very successful launch of the ‘Fresh Thoughts’ booklet on IWD for SI Sheffield. The South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard and MP Ambtishham Mohammed spoke and endorsed the work of the project.
SI Wakefield – The National Coal Mining Museum teamed up with SI Wakefield, We Are Wakefield and Labour Women’s Network to deliver a fantastic event to celebrate IWD 2025. Members of SI Dewsbury & District, Garforth Elmet, Harrogate & District and Spen Valley attended the event.
Would you expect to receive a rose in celebration of IWD when on holiday in Cyprus? That is just what happened to a member of SI Skipton in Craven.