“It was 49 years ago that the United Nations designated the 8th of March as International Women’s Day. Almost half a century has passed (more if you count the first time Women’s Day was celebrated in 1911), and while many things have not changed and there are miles to go, we have entered an era where inclusion and the need for it have gained more importance than ever before. While flexible work, back-to-work and many other programs have been huge enablers, I believe it is the spirit of women that has been running the world from behind, is that has driven this change. A lot more needs to be done though!

So, before we celebrate the 51st IWD next year let’s pledge:

To not assume what women can or cannot do. Yes, that new mother can still deliver that critical project on time, if she says so. That new girl intern can manage the financial reporting without error.

To mentor them and encourage them to dream.

To create an environment in our teams, functions, and organizations where they are heard, respected, given opportunities and paid fair and equally.

Because it may take a while to change what happens in society, what happens at work will have a significant impact on taking it to our homes.”