International Women’s Day (IWD) is a moment each year to celebrate the remarkable achievements of women, to reflect on the progress we’ve made towards equality, and to recommit to creating a world where every woman and girl can thrive.

This year, the global theme is “Give to Gain” a powerful reminder that when we give our time, knowledge, support, advocacy, mentorship, and opportunities, we all rise together. It’s a call for generosity, collaboration and collective action: to share our voices, to open doors for others, to champion opportunities, and to help build stronger, more inclusive communities where everyone benefits.

At PEGS, we’ve always believed that true change comes when we support each other, not only in words, but in action. International Women’s Day gives us the chance to celebrate the women we know, those we work alongside, and those whose work and leadership inspires us every day. These women give so much to their families, their communities, their professions, and the causes they champion and in doing so, they help others gain confidence, opportunity, strength, voice, and visibility.

Below, we want to honour some of the incredible women who inspire us with their dedication, compassion, leadership, and generosity:

• Anna Bowler - Content Annie
• Cara Rainbow - Dewis Choice 
• Bethan Pell , PHD student, Cardiff University 
• Maya Badham - Loop Safeguarding 
• Regina Martin - The confidence Healer 
• Kate Connor  Shropshire Council Lived Experience Domestic Abuse Project Officer
• Jo Jacklin NIDAS - Norfolk Integrated Domestic Abuse Service 
• Chrissa Wadlow Sunshine Support 
• Nicki Wilkinson ISVA manager,  Axis 
• Mwenya Chimba Head of training, Welsh Women's Aid 
• Catherine Haworth -  Haworth Family Law
• Amy Mantle - Love Media Group 
• Emma Storey Standing Together Against Domestic Abuse 
• Bernie Ryan, Institute For Addressing Strangulation 
• Charlotte Almond Staffordshire Womens Aid
• Jo Kinvig Civil Servant 
• Lynne Crawford, Thriving Alone CIC 
• Sam Beckinsale We Thrive Consulting 
• Katherine Ahluwalia Principle Operations Manager , Restore -Womens Aid
• Keely Grainger Safer Places 
• Rhiannon Edwards, Cheshire East Domestic Abuse Development Advisor
• Dr Ruth Weir, Deputy Director Violence and Society Centre 
• Maya Balachandran, Capgemini and Safelives ‘Change Maker’ 
• Anna Bowden Dyfed Powys Police Crime Commissioner's Office  
• Anna Waters, Anna Waters Art studio
• Dr Asha Patel, Innovating minds

“International Women’s Day is a reminder of the power we have when we support one another. ‘Give to Gain’ speaks so strongly to what I see every day. Women lifting others up, sharing their knowledge, creating opportunities, and making space for voices to be heard. When women are supported and empowered, everyone benefits. I am incredibly proud to work alongside and celebrate so many inspiring women who continue to give so much, and in doing so help others thrive.”
Michelle, Director of PEGS

To all the women whose names we share here  and to everyone we know who shows up, gives generously, supports without question, and helps others grow  thank you. You make a difference every day. You help us all gain strength, resilience, hope and possibility.

And to everyone reading: take a moment this International Women’s Day to celebrate the women in your life. Tell them what they mean to you. Share their stories. Support their ambitions. Because when we give, we all gain.



Happy International Women’s Day 2026!