Empowering Women Worldwide: Inspiring Inclusion on International Women's Day 2024

International Women's Day, a global event taking place annually on March 8th, proves the unbreakable spirit and accomplishments of women worldwide. It is a time of both acknowledging the progress in the pursuit of gender equality and remembering the challenges and hardships that women still experience. This year, on the occasion of International Women's Day falling on a Friday, we have a chance to pause and evaluate the progress we have made and the still unresolved challenges of the march towards true equality for women. The International Women’s Day’s roots can be traced back to the early 20th century which was characterized by growing women’s rights and social justice movements. It was against this setting that the first National Women's Day occurred on February 28, 1909, as a result of an announcement by the Socialist Party of America. This turning point paved the way for a wider global movement in 1910. At the International Conference of Working Women in Copenhagen, Clara Zetkin proposed the creation of an annual Women's Day. The proposal became very popular, and as a result, the first International Women's Day was celebrated in 1911 in several European countries where over a million people came together for women's rights and suffrage.

The International Women's Day theme of 2024, ‘Inspire Inclusion’, is a strong slogan for evoking a world where women are not only acknowledged but also respected, valued, and empowered to take part in all areas of life. Inclusion is not only an ethical issue but also a crucial factor for societal development and prosperity. When women are included, whether it is in the boardroom, the classroom or in the community decision-making processes, their varied perspectives, talents and experiences add and strengthen the social fabric. Through making others see the importance of the values of inclusiveness, we can build the path for a world where everyone, regardless of gender, will have the same chances and rights.

Complementing the theme of inclusion is the overarching imperative of ‘Invest in women: Accelerate progress’ for International Women's Day 2024. This directive underscores the critical importance of investing in women's education, healthcare, economic empowerment, and leadership development as potent tools for driving meaningful and sustainable progress toward gender equality. The benefits of such investments extend far beyond the individual, rippling outward to families, communities, and entire nations. By empowering women economically, ensuring their access to quality education and healthcare, and fostering an enabling environment for their leadership and participation, we not only unlock their full potential but also unlock the collective potential of society as a whole, driving positive social and economic transformation. As we commemorate International Women's Day in 2024, let us re-dedicate to the cause of gender equality not only in speech but in action. Let's use this occasion as a platform to honor women of the past and present generations while reaffirming our commitment to the ongoing effort of creating a world free from discrimination, injustice, and inequality.

Kavitha Ramachandragowda, Co-Founder and Executive Director, Routematic-

"The technology landscape in our country is witnessing a powerful transformation as women carve their path, proving that brilliance, determination, and ambition know no gender. Women are shattering stereotypes and emerging as powerful, influential leaders, contributing significantly to the success of enterprises, job creation, and India’s economy. According to Women's in India's Startup Ecosystem Report, the women’s entrepreneurial landscape is on an upward trajectory in India.  My advice to aspiring female leaders is to believe in your capabilities and grab the boundless opportunities ahead. Establish clear limits, assign tasks strategically, give importance to both personal and professional well-being, and make sure you have a robust support network around you. The perseverance, fearless spirit, and drive, coupled with empathy, leadership, and communication skills that women naturally possess, will surely enable young women leaders to continue breaking barriers and thrive in their endeavours, leaving a lasting mark in the field of technology and innovation".

Manisha Dubey, Head of IDEMIA India Foundation and VP Marketing Communications & Brand, IDEMIA-

"In today's digital world, skilling and development initiatives are essential for unlocking the vast potential of women. By providing access to opportunities and empowering women with relevant skills and knowledge, these programs enable them to close the gender gap in STEM fields and tech-related industries. Moreover, skilled women bring diverse perspectives and drive innovation, fostering creativity and pushing boundaries in technology and business. Economic empowerment follows suit as women secure higher-paying jobs and better economic opportunities, contributing to the prosperity of communities. Additionally, skilling programs cultivate adaptability and resilience, equipping women to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Ultimately, investing in the skilling and development of women not only benefits individuals but also drives societal and economic growth, creating a more inclusive and innovative future for all".

Radhika Singh, Global Lead, Learning and Development (US, Europe, Japan and India), Creative Synergies Group-

“Career progression of female employees is intrinsically linked with the level of investment companies make in their profession, highlighting the role of nuances in progress assessment. While it is crucial to assess whether organizations prioritize the advancement of their female workforce, it is equally important to take the methodologies into account. After all, organizing a few learning and development workshops does not directly translate to tangible growth. In 2023, only 30 percent of organizations globally measured the impact and outcomes of their D&I initiatives. Measuring results is the cornerstone for enhancing programs and initiatives year-on-year. Embracing these progressive changes not only helps women hone their skill sets and develop their professional competencies, but it also fosters a culture where they feel acknowledged and valued. Strategically designed learning and development initiatives inspire inclusion, uplifting the organization’s values and outlook in the long run. At Creative Synergies Group, we ensure that all our employee-based initiatives are followed by extensive feedback and assessment, thereby elevating the success rates of our programs, creating a culture that embraces change".