How will you celebrate International Womens Day?

International Women's Day is celebrated every year on 8 March. Various activities are held around the world to celebrate women and the social, economic, and political achievements that have been made by them over the years. It is also a day to recognize that there are still many areas related to equality for women that continue to deserve attention and further improvement.

Since the first International Women’s Day in 1911, the traditional roles of women have been turned upside down, opening doors for women to become educated, own their own businesses, have political power, and become role models to many.

At the WorldSkills Competition, we see female Competitors in every area, from Heating and Plumbing to Fashion Technology to IT Network Systems Administration and everything in between. Although some women are still reluctant to enter into a traditionally ‘male career’, more are realizing that if it’s something they are interested in and are good at, they have nothing to lose. Employers recognize the need for staff with the right skills, no matter what gender they are.

How will you celebrate International Women’s Day? Community events, social networking, and a variety of media channels enable us all to spread the word so that the future for women is fulfilling, safe, and enriching.

There are some WorldSkills Members that actively engage and encourage the connection between young female students and female mentors in the work field. In Canada, in almost every province and territory you can find a "Young Women's Conference". It is a day when female students are invited to come and try out various trades and technologies and hear stories of successful local women working in those fields. It is all about breaking down barriers for the students and opening their eyes to the possibilities in skilled careers. If you would like to know more about these great projects please contact Skills Canada. Do you know of any projects or activities in your country that actively encourage females to explore the careers in trades and technologies? If so, share them with us! Send your ideas to secretariat@worldskills.org.  

At WorldSkills, we are going to celebrate by highlighting and thanking all the female Competitors, Experts, Delegates, Team Leaders, trainers, mentors and supporters. Without your help and guidance, many other young women wouldn't have the courage to follow in your footsteps.