“How important it is for us to recognise and celebrate our heroes and she-roes” – Maya Angelou

“Both men and women should feel free to be sensitive. Both men and women should feel free to be strong……it is time that we all perceive gender on a spectrum not as two opposing sets of ideas” – Emma Watson

When thinking about celebrating International Women’s Day, we were thinking about which men and women had inspired us throughout our lives and careers. The list is long and whilst our list here focusses on public figures, there are many of our friends and families who continue to inspire us everyday.

We recognised that both men and women shared the same characteristics and whilst this day is about women, perhaps in the future, it needs to be a day to celebrate equality and the greatness of characteristics rather than gender. For today, let’s celebrate these women who inspired broke with convention, opened up opportunities and with determination made lasting changes for the greater good.

Happy International Women’s day! March 8th 2019.

Diana, Princess of Wales –  Someone who touched everyone and always made me want to be the best possible version of myself. She brought about change in the oldest of institutions. Just one of her many inspiring quotes; “I don’t go by the rule book, I lead from the heart not the head”

Jo Malone – Who followed a childhood passion of making fragrances with flowers from her garden, ran a florist and gave her products as gifts to clients. The orders started flooding in and a few years later the flagship store was launched.

Madonna – A childhood icon for many of us, ever evolving, reinventing herself, outspoken, creative, non-conformist.

Helen Mirren – Defying the perception of having to be young and glamorous to succeed. Age is not a factor and she is still rocking it aged 74.

Sara Blakely – Founder and Creator of Spanx – the shapewear which gave confidence to millions

Michelle Obama – Standing alone as a strong woman, empowering anyone and everyone to stand up for what you believe. “Everyone has a voice no matter what people think.”

Who inspires you?