Things To Do For International Women’s Day At Work
International Women’s Day is a global celebration of the remarkable achievements and invaluable contributions made by women across all walks of life. It’s a time to honor their resilience, strength, and unwavering determination in the face of adversity.
As we commemorate this special day, it’s crucial for workplaces to actively participate and promote an inclusive, equitable, and supportive environment for women.
Embracing International Women’s Day at the office not only acknowledges the remarkable women who make your organization thrive but also fosters a culture of empowerment, equality, and mutual respect.
By implementing creative and meaningful initiatives, you can raise awareness, inspire positive change, and cultivate a workplace where every voice is heard and valued.
So, let’s dive into 30 fantastic ideas to make this International Women’s Day at work truly memorable and impactful!
1. Host an Inspiring Speaker Series
Invite accomplished women leaders, entrepreneurs, or industry pioneers to share their journeys, insights, and words of wisdom with your colleagues. Hearing from these trailblazers can be a powerful source of motivation and encouragement for everyone, especially aspiring women professionals.
Consider inviting Ava DuVernay, the renowned filmmaker and director, to share her experiences in breaking barriers and challenging industry norms.
Gift attendees a copy of “A Woman’s Worth” by Marianne Williamson, a thought-provoking book that explores the transformative power of embracing one’s true self and potential.
2. Organize a Women’s Leadership Summit
Plan a half-day or full-day summit focused on women’s leadership and empowerment. Feature keynote speakers, panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities, providing a platform for women to learn, grow, and connect with like-minded professionals.
Host a “Women in Technology” leadership summit, inviting industry leaders like Susan Wojcicki (CEO of YouTube) and Sheryl Sandberg (COO of Meta) to share their insights on breaking the glass ceiling.
Distribute copies of “Lean In” by Sheryl Sandberg, a powerful book that encourages women to unapologetically pursue their ambitions and overcome societal barriers.
3. Celebrate Women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
Highlight the accomplishments and contributions of women in STEM fields by hosting interactive exhibits, coding workshops, or panel discussions featuring women excelling in these traditionally male-dominated industries.
Organize a “Women in STEM” fair, showcasing innovations by women scientists and engineers, and featuring a panel discussion with trailblazers like Katherine Johnson, the NASA mathematician depicted in the film “Hidden Figures.”
Offer attendees a copy of “Headstrong: 52 Women Who Changed Science – and the World” by Rachel Swaby, an inspiring collection of biographies celebrating groundbreaking women in science.
4. Host a Women’s Art Exhibition or Performance
Celebrate the artistic talents and creative expressions of women by hosting an art exhibition or performance event. This could feature visual arts, dance, music, poetry, or any other form of artistic expression, showcasing the diverse talents within your organization and community.
Curate an art exhibition featuring the works of local women artists, accompanied by live music performances and poetry readings celebrating the artistic talents and creative expressions of women in your community.
Gift attendees a copy of “Women Artists” by Nancy G. Heller, a beautifully illustrated book that explores the lives and works of influential women artists throughout history.
5. Organize a Women’s Entrepreneurship Fair
Showcase and support women-owned businesses by organizing an entrepreneurship fair. Invite local women entrepreneurs to exhibit their products, services, and innovative ideas, fostering networking opportunities and potential partnerships.
Host a “Women in Business” fair, inviting local women entrepreneurs to showcase their handmade jewelry, artisanal food items, eco-friendly home goods, or innovative tech solutions.
Offer attendees a copy of “Girl Boss” by Sophia Amoruso, an inspiring and practical guide for aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners.
6. Host a Women’s Health and Wellness Fair
Promote the overall well-being of your women employees by organizing a health and wellness fair. Offer activities such as yoga or meditation sessions, healthy cooking demonstrations, and informative talks on physical and mental health topics relevant to women.
Set up booths and stations offering yoga and meditation sessions, healthy cooking demonstrations, and informative talks on topics like women’s reproductive health, mental well-being, and self-care practices.
Gift attendees a copy of “The Whole Woman” by Christiane Northrup, M.D., a comprehensive guide to women’s health and wellness, covering physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
7. Facilitate a Women’s Career Development Workshop
Invest in the professional growth of your women employees by offering career development workshops or seminars. These sessions could cover topics such as negotiation skills, personal branding, networking, or overcoming imposter syndrome, equipping women with valuable tools and strategies for career advancement.
Offer a workshop on “Negotiating Your Worth” that provides strategies and techniques for women to effectively negotiate salaries, promotions, and career opportunities.
Distribute copies of “Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office” by Lois P. Frankel, a practical guide that empowers women to assert themselves confidently and navigate the workplace effectively.
8. Organize a Women’s Sports Tournament or Fitness Challenge
Celebrate the athleticism and competitive spirit of women by hosting a sports tournament or fitness challenge. This event can promote physical activity, team building, and a sense of camaraderie among participants while breaking down gender stereotypes.
Host a friendly volleyball or basketball tournament, encouraging women employees to form teams and compete in a spirit of camaraderie and friendly competition.
Gift participants a copy of “Unbroken” by Laura Hillenbrand, an inspirational book that chronicles the life of Louis Zamperini, an Olympic athlete, and World War II hero, celebrating the resilience and determination of the human spirit.
9. Host a Women’s Empowerment Film Festival
Organize a film screening event featuring inspiring movies that celebrate women’s empowerment, resilience, and achievements. Follow the screenings with panel discussions or Q&A sessions to facilitate conversations about the themes and messages portrayed in the films.
Organize a film screening event featuring inspiring movies like “Hidden Figures,” “Based on Sex,” or “RBG,” followed by panel discussions exploring the themes of women’s empowerment and breaking barriers.
Offer attendees a copy of “The Handmaid’s Tale” by Margaret Atwood, a thought-provoking and powerful novel that explores the subjugation of women in a dystopian society.
10. Facilitate a Women’s Financial Literacy Workshop
Empower women by offering a financial literacy workshop or seminar focused on money management, budgeting, investing, and retirement planning. These sessions can provide valuable knowledge and tools for financial independence and security.
Offer a workshop on “Money Mindset for Women” that covers topics like budgeting, investment strategies, and retirement planning, empowering women with knowledge and tools for financial independence.
Gift attendees a copy of “Women & Money” by Suze Orman, a comprehensive financial planning and wealth management guide tailored specifically for women.
11. Host a Women’s Book Club Discussion
Establish a book club focused on literature written by and about women, fostering intellectual discourse and exploration of diverse perspectives and experiences. Select thought-provoking books that amplify women’s voices or highlight women’s issues.
Establish a book club focused on literature by and about women, such as “The Handmaid’s Tale” by Margaret Atwood or “The Moment of Lift” by Melinda Gates, fostering intellectual discourse and exploring diverse perspectives.
Offer attendees a copy of “The Bluest Eye” by Toni Morrison, a powerful novel that explores the impact of racism and societal beauty standards on a young African American girl.
12. Organize a Women’s Outdoor Adventure or Team-Building Activity
Plan an outdoor adventure or team-building activity, such as hiking, rock climbing, or a ropes course, specifically for women employees. This event can promote physical activity, teamwork, and camaraderie in a supportive environment while challenging gender norms.
Plan a hiking or rock climbing excursion for women employees, promoting physical activity, teamwork, and camaraderie in a supportive outdoor environment.
Gift participants a copy of “Wild” by Cheryl Strayed, a memoir that follows the author’s journey as she hikes the Pacific Crest Trail, exploring themes of self-discovery, healing, and resilience.
13. Facilitate a Women’s Mentorship Mixer
Host a mentorship mixer event that connects experienced women professionals with emerging talents. This provides an opportunity for networking, sharing insights, and establishing mentorship relationships that can support the growth and development of women in your organization.
Host a “Speed Mentoring” event where experienced women leaders rotate tables and provide brief mentoring sessions to groups of mentees, facilitating connections and potential long-term mentorship relationships.
Gift attendees a copy of “Mentors: How to Help and Be Helped” by Russell Sarder, a practical guide on building and nurturing mentoring relationships for personal and professional growth.
14. Celebrate Women’s Achievements in Science and Technology
Recognize and honor women scientists, engineers, and technologists within your organization or industry by hosting a special event or ceremony. Highlight their groundbreaking contributions and achievements in these fields, inspiring future generations of women in STEM.
Organize a “Women in Tech” awards ceremony, recognizing and honoring women employees who have made significant contributions to technological innovations, product development, or groundbreaking research within your organization.
Gift attendees a copy of “Hidden Figures” by Margot Lee Shetterly, a powerful book that tells the untold story of the African American women mathematicians who played a crucial role in the early years of NASA’s space program.
15. Organize a Women’s Charity Fundraiser or Volunteer Initiative
Support organizations that empower women or address women’s issues by organizing a charity fundraiser or volunteer event. This initiative can raise awareness about important causes while fostering a sense of purpose and social responsibility within your organization.
Host a bake sale or silent auction to raise funds for a local women’s shelter, or participate in a volunteer event like packing care packages or organizing a clothing drive for women in need.
Offer attendees a copy of “Half the Sky” by Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn, an eye-opening book that sheds light on the oppression and challenges faced by women worldwide and offers solutions to empower them.
16. Host a Women’s Entrepreneurship Panel and Pitch Competition
Invite successful women entrepreneurs to share their stories and insights on starting and growing a business. Additionally, organize a pitch competition where aspiring women entrepreneurs within your organization can present their business ideas and potentially secure funding or mentorship opportunities.
Invite successful women entrepreneurs like Tory Burch or Sara Blakely to share their stories and insights, followed by a pitch competition where aspiring women entrepreneurs within your organization can present their business ideas and potentially secure funding or mentorship.
Gift attendees a copy of “Start Something That Matters” by Blake Mycoskie, the founder of TOMS Shoes, an inspiring book that encourages readers to build a business with a social purpose.
17. Facilitate a Women’s Self-Defense Workshop
Empower women by offering self-defense workshops or classes taught by certified instructors. These sessions can provide valuable skills and techniques for personal safety and empowerment, boosting confidence and self-assurance.
Offer a self-defense workshop taught by certified instructors, providing women employees with valuable techniques and skills for personal safety and empowerment.
Gift attendees a copy of “Fight Like a Girl” by Erin Weidemann, a practical guide to self-defense and personal safety for women, empowering them with the knowledge and skills to protect themselves.
18. Organize a Women’s Networking Brunch or Cocktail Hour
Facilitate networking opportunities for women employees by hosting a dedicated brunch or cocktail hour event. This allows them to connect, share experiences, and build professional relationships in a relaxed and informal setting.
Host a “Women in Leadership” networking brunch where women employees from different departments and levels can connect, exchange experiences, and discuss strategies for career advancement.
Gift attendees a copy of “Presence” by Amy Cuddy, a powerful book that explores how to embrace and project confidence, inspiring women to own their power and potential.
19. Host a Women’s Leadership Roundtable Discussion
Bring together women leaders from various industries and backgrounds for a roundtable discussion on leadership, challenges, and strategies for success. This event can provide valuable insights and perspectives, inspiring and motivating women to pursue leadership roles.
Bring together women leaders from various industries, such as Jacqueline Novogratz (Acumen), Mellody Hobson (Ariel Investments), and Indra Nooyi (former PepsiCo CEO), for a roundtable discussion on leadership challenges, strategies for success, and inspiring the next generation of women leaders.
Offer attendees a copy of “Thrive” by Arianna Huffington, a thought-provoking book that encourages readers to redefine success and prioritize well-being, wisdom, and giving back.
20. Celebrate Women’s Achievements in Arts and Culture
Recognize and honor women artists, musicians, writers, and cultural influencers by hosting an event that showcases their talents and contributions. This could include live performances, readings, or exhibitions, highlighting the diverse artistic expressions and cultural impact of women.
Organize a “Women in Arts” event featuring live performances by local female musicians, readings by women authors or poets, and an exhibition showcasing the works of women artists from your community.
Gift attendees a copy of “Just Kids” by Patti Smith, a captivating memoir that offers a glimpse into the bohemian art scene of 1970s New York and celebrates the enduring bond between two young artists, Patti Smith and Robert Mapplethorpe.
21. Encourage Mentorship and Sponsorship Programs
Implement formal mentorship or sponsorship programs that pair experienced women professionals with emerging talents. These programs can provide guidance, support, and advocacy, helping women navigate career challenges and achieve their goals.
Establish a mentorship program that matches senior women leaders within your organization with junior or mid-level employees, providing guidance, support, and advocacy for their professional growth and development.
Offer participants a copy of “Lean In for Graduates” by Sheryl Sandberg, a practical guide for young women entering the workforce, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and building a supportive network.
22. Offer Gender Bias and Sensitivity Training
Conduct training sessions on gender bias and sensitivity to raise awareness and promote an inclusive work environment. These sessions can help employees understand and address unconscious biases, fostering a more equitable and respectful workplace culture.
Conduct a workshop or training session on recognizing and addressing unconscious gender biases in the workplace, led by a diversity and inclusion expert, to promote a more equitable and respectful work environment.
Gift attendees a copy of “What Works for Women at Work” by Joan C. Williams and Rachel Dempsey, a research-based book that explores the unique challenges women face in the workplace and offers practical strategies for overcoming them.
23. Launch a Women’s Podcast Series
Start a podcast series featuring interviews and discussions with successful women in various industries, sharing their experiences, advice, and insights on navigating challenges and achieving success. This platform can inspire and educate listeners while promoting women’s empowerment.
Launch a podcast series called “Women Who Lead,” featuring interviews with accomplished women leaders like Jacqueline Novogratz (Acumen), Mellody Hobson (Ariel Investments), and Indra Nooyi (former PepsiCo CEO), sharing their stories and insights on leadership, overcoming obstacles, and inspiring the next generation.
Offer listeners a copy of “Becoming” by Michelle Obama, a powerful memoir that chronicles the former First Lady’s journey from a working-class upbringing to the White House, inspiring readers with her strength, resilience, and commitment to empowering others.
24. Encourage Women’s Participation in Community Service
Organize a community service initiative, such as volunteering at a local school, community garden, or food bank, and encourage women employees to participate, fostering a sense of purpose and social responsibility while giving back to the community.
Participate in a volunteer event like packing care packages or organizing a clothing drive for women in need, fostering a sense of purpose and social responsibility within your organization.
Gift participants a copy of “The Life You Can Save” by Peter Singer, a thought-provoking book that explores the importance of giving and encourages readers to make a positive impact in the world through charitable actions.
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25. Facilitate a Women’s Financial Education Series
Offer a series of workshops or seminars focused on financial literacy, investing, and wealth management specifically tailored for women. These sessions can empower women with knowledge and tools to achieve financial independence and security.
Offer a series of workshops on topics like “Investing for Women,” “Retirement Planning for Women,” and “Building Wealth as a Woman,” providing valuable financial education and empowering women to take control of their financial futures.
Gift attendees a copy of “Girl, Get Your Money Straight” by Aisha Taylor, a practical guide that offers.
26. Set up a “Women in Art” Workshop:
This event aims to celebrate and empower women in the arts by hosting a workshop led by a local female artist. Participants will have the opportunity to create their own artworks, either inspired by influential women artists or exploring themes of empowerment and women’s experiences.
The workshop will provide art supplies and guidance from the artist facilitator. At the end, attendees can be gifted with an art supply kit or a framed piece of their own artwork, encouraging them to continue exploring their artistic talents.
Host an art workshop led by a local female artist, where participants can create artwork inspired by influential women or themes of empowerment. Provide art supplies and guidance. Gift attendees with an art supply kit or a framed piece of their own artwork.
27. Facilitate a “Gender Equality” Debate:
This event encourages open and respectful discussions on various topics related to gender equality, such as pay parity, representation of women in leadership roles, or achieving work-life balance.
It can be structured as a friendly debate, with participants constructively expressing their views and perspectives. The goal is to raise awareness and promote dialogue on these important issues. Attendees can be gifted with a book on feminism or a subscription to an online learning platform focused on diversity and inclusion, further supporting their understanding and growth in this area.
Host a friendly debate on topics related to gender equality, such as pay parity, representation in leadership roles, or work-life balance. Encourage open and respectful discussions. Gift participants with a book on feminism or a subscription to an online learning platform focused on diversity and inclusion.
28. Organize a “Women in Music” Karaoke Night:
This event celebrates the power and influence of female musicians by hosting a karaoke night featuring empowering songs by female artists. Employees are encouraged to sing along, dance, and celebrate the contributions of women in the music industry.
The karaoke night can be a fun and interactive way to foster a sense of community and appreciation for the talents of women artists. Attendees can be gifted with a portable karaoke machine or a music streaming subscription, allowing them to continue enjoying and supporting female musicians.
Host a karaoke session featuring empowering songs by female artists. Encourage employees to sing along, dance, and celebrate the power of music. Gift attendees with a portable karaoke machine or a music streaming subscription.
29. Host a “Women in Tech” Hackathon:
This event aims to promote and support women in the technology field by organizing a hackathon focused on developing technological solutions to address issues faced by women. Participants will work in teams to create apps, software, or other tech-based solutions that can improve the lives of women, such as safety apps, educational resources, or productivity tools.
Female tech professionals can be invited to mentor and judge the event, providing guidance and encouragement to the participants. The winning team can be gifted with tech-related prizes or a coding course subscription, further supporting their growth and development in the tech industry.
Organize a hackathon focused on developing technological solutions to address issues faced by women, such as safety apps or educational resources. Invite female tech professionals to mentor and judge the event. Gift the winning team with tech-related prizes or a coding course subscription.
30. Set up a “Women’s Wellness” Retreat:
This event prioritizes self-care and well-being for women by hosting a mini-retreat focused on activities that promote mental and physical health. Activities like yoga, meditation, or mindfulness workshops can be led by female instructors, creating a supportive and empowering environment.
Healthy snacks and refreshments can be provided, encouraging attendees to prioritize their overall well-being. Participants can be gifted with items like a yoga mat, essential oils, or a wellness app subscription, helping them continue their self-care practices beyond the event.
Host a mini-retreat focused on promoting self-care and well-being for women. Offer activities like yoga, meditation, or mindfulness workshops led by female instructors. Provide healthy snacks and encourage attendees to prioritize their mental and physical health. Gift participants with a yoga mat, essential oils, or a wellness app subscription.
Conclusion:
International Women’s Day is a powerful reminder of the incredible achievements and ongoing struggles of women worldwide.
By incorporating these engaging activities and initiatives into your workplace celebrations, you not only create an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie but also promote important discussions, raise awareness, and foster a deeper appreciation for the diverse talents and contributions of women.
From thought-provoking discussions to creative challenges and team-building exercises, these ideas offer a unique opportunity to celebrate the strength, resilience, and accomplishments of women from various backgrounds and fields. They encourage open dialogues, promote inclusivity, and inspire colleagues to support and uplift one another.
Remember, celebrating International Women’s Day is not a one-time event; it’s an ongoing commitment to promoting gender equality, empowering women, and creating a more equitable and inclusive workplace for all.
Let these activities be the catalyst for continuous learning, personal growth, and a renewed appreciation for the invaluable role women play in shaping our world.
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FAQs About International Women’s Day At Work:
1. Why is it important to celebrate International Women’s Day in the workplace?
Celebrating International Women’s Day in the workplace is crucial for several reasons:
- It promotes awareness and appreciation for the significant contributions and achievements of women throughout history and in various fields.
- It fosters a culture of inclusivity, respect, and equality by recognizing the value and importance of women in the workforce.
- It provides an opportunity for open discussions, education, and personal growth on topics related to women’s rights, empowerment, and gender equality.
- It encourages employees to support and uplift one another, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
- It aligns with the company’s values of diversity, equity, and inclusion, demonstrating a commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive workplace for all.
2. How can these activities benefit the workplace culture? Incorporating International Women’s Day activities can benefit the workplace culture in the following ways:
- They promote team-building and camaraderie by bringing colleagues together in an engaging and educational setting.
- They encourage open and respectful discussions on important topics related to women’s issues, fostering understanding, empathy, and personal growth.
- They provide learning opportunities and raise awareness about the achievements and challenges faced by women, promoting a more inclusive and equitable mindset.
- They celebrate diversity and create a sense of belonging for all employees, regardless of gender, background, or identity.
- They align with the company’s values and demonstrate a commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive work environment for everyone.
3. How can companies ensure these activities are inclusive and respectful? To ensure that International Women’s Day activities are inclusive and respectful, companies should consider the following:
- Involve a diverse group of employees in the planning and organization process to gather different perspectives and ensure representation.
- Provide clear guidelines and expectations for participation, emphasizing the importance of respectful and inclusive behavior.
- Offer a variety of activities that cater to different interests, abilities, and backgrounds, ensuring everyone feels included and engaged.
- Ensure that the activities do not reinforce harmful stereotypes or promote discrimination based on gender, race, ethnicity, or other factors.
- Encourage open and constructive feedback from participants to continuously improve and make necessary adjustments for future events.
- Promote an environment of learning, understanding, and open-mindedness, where diverse perspectives and experiences are valued and respected.
Remember, celebrating International Women’s Day should be an opportunity to foster a more inclusive, equitable, and supportive workplace culture for all employees.
