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International Women’s Day 2026

It's International Women's Day 2026 - a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. Who is your favourite female inspiration? Post on the wall below by clicking the button below.

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Having given thought to this it was really hard to answer as so many women in my life have truly inspired me, so I decided to think about the woman who is inspiring me right now! That woman is my sister, she has stepped up to being a mum to my 2 amazing nieces whilst their own mum is not capable of being one. She has changed her life to accommodate them to make them feel loved and safe. She is amazing !

- Donna Lee-Willis

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I am lucky enough to be surrounded by so many incredible women, it is impossible to just pick one. From lovely friends and family to past University Lecturers, artists, celebrities and more, so many women have shaped where I am today 🫶🏼

- Sophie S

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I have always admired Frida Kahlo because despite the profound hardships she endured, she lived boldly and transformed her pain into beautiful art that continues to inspire people today. Her life reminds me that resilience, courage and self expression can create a legacy that lasts far beyond the struggles we face

- Natasha

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Here's my lovely mum, who died three years ago today. To become a leading miniaturist, she needed artistic ability, persistence, a steady hand and powerful magnification! A quietly inspiring presence in our lives...

- Patrick

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My singer teacher at University, Emma Dennis really inspired/inspires me. Sadly, Emma passed away mid-way through my course. I so admired her adversity, infectious smile, and amazing voice. Singing with her was the highlight of my degree, inspiring me to complete further studies. If ever I feel sad, I bust out 'I could of danced all night' and think of her.

- Georgia Pallett

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Many women have inspired me, taught me right from wrong. to know my own mind and to trust my instinct. I still hear you when I need to make a choice in my life or guide someone else in theirs - thank you. But the women who inspired me the most are those that have faced adversity with strength, bravery, laughter, faith and a tenacity I hope I never have to experience, but if I do I will channel their inner spirit and smile knowing that I have those traits because they gave them to me.

Ruth

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So many amazing women have played a role in my life. In 2025 we lost my lovely mum-in-law, Dawn. Ordinary and unremarkable in many ways! But she shone, she lived for her family. She played such an important role in my life, at one of the hardest times, and I will be forever grateful. She smiled all the time! And I miss that more then words can express. So, reflecting on all the gutsy, passionate, creative, and inspiring women I am lucky enough to know, Dawn shines brightest.

- Claire Billing

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You don't know my friend Hilary, but she inspires me everyday. Hilary is the current facilitator of the local writing group I've been a part of for twelve years. We connected through writing at a play her daughter wrote and performed in, and despite retiring from a successful career, she never gave up on her dream of being a professional writer, and she never lets us give up either. Despite some serious recent hardship, her genorosity has never faltered, and she remains one of the most positive influences in my life. Thank you, Hilary.

- Zach

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I am blessed with incredible friends who have inspired me at various stages of my life to be brave, to take a leap of faith, to believe in myself or simply to stay up a little longer and laugh harder. I remind them all the time of the difference they make.

Shelly Thake

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Anne Franks' inspirational quote has always resonated with me. A reminder of our freedoms and that you are who you decide to be. When she was in hiding, one of the only things Anne could see of the outside world was a horse chestnut tree. A descendant of this very tree stands on the Addenbrooke's site, on the green area behind the Frank Lee Centre and marked with a plaque. A good spot for contemplation and context of our place on this planet.

Alex Cavanagh

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"Rosa Parks has always been an absolute inspiration for me - she stood up (or in this case sat down) for what she believed in. Her small act of 'civil disobedience' led to the end of segregation on buses and catalysed so much more. Like Rosa, standing up for what you believe in and acting with integrity are principles I wholeheartedly live by."

Anna Bullock

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"No matter who you are, no matter what you did, no matter where you’ve come from, you can always change, become a better version of yourself.” - Madonna

I've been inspired by the Queen of Pop since the age of 11 when I first saw her live at Wembley - I have since gone on to see her in concert a mere 11 times. Her strong female, 'girls can do anything' attitude twinned with her passion for originality still inspires me to this day! The OG Girl Power Icon! - Cheryl Elvy

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"I'm inspired every day by my daughter who is taking breast cancer in her stride and still making us laugh. Go Daisy!"

Bridget Tring

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“A woman with a voice is by definition a strong woman. But the search to find that voice can be remarkably difficult.”

Jane Gooddall, English Primatologist and Anthropologist

Tell us about a woman who inspires you

This could be a story about someone close to you, someone who has changed history, or a quote from an inspirational figure that resonates with you.

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