As we approach International Women's Day on Saturday, March 8th, 2025, the theme "Accelerate Action" resonates deeply with me. This call to speed up progress toward women's equality feels especially meaningful when I look at how far we've come—and how far we still need to go. In our workplaces and communities, women supporting women isn't just a nice-to-have; it's a crucial accelerator for change.
The Power of Collective Progress
The theme "Accelerate Action" reminds us that progress doesn't just happen—it requires intentional, sustained effort. Looking back over the past year, we've seen how women's mutual support has become more crucial than ever. In an era of rapid technological change and workplace transformation, our networks of support have proven to be not just beneficial, but essential for speeding up the pace of change. The workplace continues to evolve, but our commitment to lifting each other up remains unwavering.
Building Stronger Together
The impact of women supporting women extends far beyond individual success stories—it's about creating systemic change at an accelerated pace. When we amplify each other's voices and celebrate our collective achievements, we create a ripple effect that influences organizational cultures and industry standards. Our united voice carries weight that no individual voice alone could achieve.
Actions That Drive Change
As we embrace the "Accelerate Action" theme in 2025, here are ways we can strengthen our commitment to supporting each other:
Intentional Mentorship: Actively seek opportunities to guide and support other women, sharing not just successes but also lessons learned from challenges
Strategic Sponsorship: Use our positions of influence to create opportunities and open doors for other women
Celebration of Achievement: Make recognition of women's accomplishments a regular practice, not just during designated months
Policy Advocacy: Continue pushing for workplace policies that support women's advancement and work-life integration
Network Building: Foster connections that transcend traditional boundaries, creating spaces where women can share, learn, and grow together
A Personal Note of Gratitude
Throughout my career, I've been blessed with extraordinary women who have shaped my journey through their mentorship, support, and friendship. I want to express my deepest gratitude to Jenni Kotowski, Jane Scott, Reitu Mabokela, Jan Lloyd Lesley, Pam Cavanaugh, Tiffany Sanchez, Josie Ahlquist, Meghan Grace, Carrie Petr, Donna Viens, Sheri Rowland, Jillian Ransammy, Jessica Delgado, Bethany Parmer, Monica Brotons, Melissa Villafañe, Jenn Unterbrink, Melissa Shivers, Pauline Burke, Shelia Higgs Burkhalter, Pato Lin-Steadman, Tina Hart, Kristin Fillhouer, Carolyn Scott, Sandra Martinez, Araiña Muniz, Sherri Watson, my mom Christine Brady, and my bonus mom Tish Kilpatrick. Your support has been transformative, and I'm honored to continue championing your growth as you've championed mine. I also hold in loving memory Ronnie Kann, whose impact continues to influence my journey.
Looking to the Future
To my niece Ella, now eight, and our son Fox, now thirteen—my commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable world grows stronger each year. Your generation inspires me to work harder, push further, and never stop advocating for positive change. The theme "Accelerate Action" isn't just a slogan—it's a promise to speed up the creation of a more equitable world for you and your peers.
As we celebrate International Women's Day 2025, I encourage everyone to embrace the call to accelerate action. Reach out to the women who have impacted your lives. Share your gratitude, extend your support, and commit to being part of this ongoing journey toward equality and inclusion.
Together, we're not just making history—we're accelerating the pace of change for a more equitable future.
Image courtesy of: International Women's Day Planning Toolkit
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