International Women’s Day: celebrating the diversity and achievements of women and girls in Barnet

On International Women’s Day (8th March), communities around the world come together to recognise the achievements, resilience, and contributions of women and girls. This is a day dedicated not only to celebrating successes, but also to acknowledging the work that still needs to be done to ensure that everyone, regardless of gender, benefits from a fairer and more inclusive society. At its heart, International Women’s Day reminds us that when women and girls thrive, everyone flourishes. 

Here in Barnet, this message is especially true. Our borough is home to a diverse population, with women and girls from many cultural, ethnic, and social backgrounds who enrich our community life every day. From the local councillors leading our authority to business leaders, mothers, carers, activists, and volunteers - women in Barnet drive positive change across our community. 

The theme of this year’s International Women’s Day is ‘Give to Gain’. In Barnet, whether by giving our time, encouragement, sharing our resources, or providing opportunities to women and girls, we gain a stronger, more connected community from which we all benefit. 

Against this background, Meridian Wellbeing, in partnership with Fit and Active Barnet, are proud to host an uplifting International Women’s Day celebration on Friday 6th March, highlighting the diversity and achievements of women and girls across Barnet. 

You can read more about Meridian Wellbeing’s work supporting diversity and inclusion in this blog.  

What can you expect from our International Women’s Day event? 

This year’s event aims to inspire, connect, and deepen our understanding of the realities that women and girls face in our borough. We believe it is important not only to celebrate achievements but also to be honest about the challenges still experienced by over half of Barnet’s population - whether they are our mothers, partners, daughters, friends or colleagues. 

In keeping with the ‘Give to Gain’ theme, the event will include: 

• Celebrating local champions who support women’s health, activity, and empowerment across the borough - highlighting their ongoing work that strengthens Barnet year-round. 

• Listening to a survivor of domestic violence. Her message serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of women and the ways we can support survivors. 

• Learning about opportunities to take part in wellbeing and social activities designed to foster personal enrichment, confidence, and community connection. 

• Making a collective commitment to support, empower, and uplift women in everyday life. Whether through advocacy, allyship, volunteering, or small acts of kindness, these pledges bring Give to Gain to life. 

Join us and be part of the celebration 

We welcome everyone to join us for our International Women’s Day celebration, to honour the achievements of women and girls in Barnet, recognise their diverse experiences, and commit to actions that uplift our whole community. 

To register your place, please email [email protected] 

Let’s come together on 6th March and celebrate the truth that when we give women and girls equality and equity, we all gain. 

How can you Give to Gain in your daily life? 

• Politely challenge stereotypes or offensive jokes – banter shouldn’t be an excuse to talk women and girls down.  

• Donate your time or resources to a local charity or group supporting women or girls.  

• Celebrate the achievements of the women and girls in your life.  

• Wear purple on International Women’s Day (Sunday 8th March).  

You can find out more about International Women’s Day and how you can support women and girls by visiting their site.