Celebrating International Women's Day 2025

Penny Walters, Food Ambassador from Newcastle:

"Women are a formidable force. But being a strong woman can be both a hindrance and a help. You get called names, and (sometimes) you get called a bully, even if you are not a bully. You are just a strong person.

"You have to be strong. I don’t class myself as a 'legend', but I’m not to be tampered with. And my advice is always: 'don't give up'.

"The amount of knockbacks I have had personally as well as professionally... and you think, 'Oh, God, have I got to do it again?' And the answer is yes. You just get up, dust yourself off, and carry on.

"Who are my inspirations? It's women like Dierdre Woods, a food and farming activist, and Emma Lewell-Buck, the MP for South Shields, who’ve inspired me. They do so much and are always everywhere: constantly pushing for change. It helps that we also get on like a house on fire."

"Who am I as a female activist? I'm like sort of half a leader and half a follower. Sometimes I like to just follow, because when you are following, you sit, you listen, and you see what's going on.

"You get to contribute while also observing, figuring out what’s right and what’s not, and then chipping in your two pennies’ worth. Other times, I want to be out in front, leading it and chewing people's ears off."

"What am I most proud of? Of course, one of my best things is Heather, my daughter. Plus, I am proud that I’m now in a place where people in power actually listen to me.

"I’m proud of my BEM for helping my community. I'm proud to be making a difference, not just in my life but many others."

Jacob Kennedy, Food Ambassador from Glasgow:

"I want to honour the two most special women in my life - my mother and my gran. They have been my greatest supporters, guiding me with love, wisdom, and strength.

"From teaching me right from wrong to always being there when I needed them most, they have shaped me into the man I am today.

"Their kindness, resilience, and unwavering belief in me inspire me every day. I hope they are proud of the boy they raised because I am forever grateful for the lessons, love, and strength they have given me."

Ke Yih, our Citizen Engagement Assistant based in London:

"International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate the strength and resilience of the women who came before us - the ones who paved the way, broke barriers, and dared to dream so we could stand where we are today.

"It’s a reminder of how far we have come, and how much further we must go. Working alongside so many incredible women every day, I am constantly inspired by our amazing team and our fabulous Food Ambassadors.

"Your strength, determination, and courage have taught me to see the world through many eyes, to embrace the unknown, and to discover the endless possibilities waiting for us. 
 
"This advice reflects the journeys of so many women. So today, I share these words with you - may you always chase what’s possible, may you never stop reaching for more.

"Be proud of the quiet battles we fight each day- the strength in our steps, the courage in our voice, the way we stand tall even when the world tries to shake us.

"These moments may seem small, but they carry the weight of those who came before us and light the way for those who will follow. Let’s keep going."

Glory Omoaka, Food Ambassador from Glasgow:

"International women day is important to me because its a day to celebrate women’s strength, resilience and achievement. It is a time to recognise how far we’ve come and how much more there is to do or still face.

"I am inspired by all the women who have in one way or the other fought for change. I saw it all as a participant in the last year's 68th annual Commission on the Status of Women (CSW68) conference.

"As an immigrant woman, a mother, a student, worker and an activist, I have faced and overcome many challenges, and I am proud of my own achievement and will continue to use my voice to campaign for a fairer world.

"This year’s theme #AccelerateAction resonates deeply with me because change cannot wait which is why we must continuing to push forward demanding for a better representation, equality and more opportunities.

"Let’s continue to break barriers, uplift marginalised voices and ensure no woman is held back from reaching her full potential. Now is the time to act!"

Barbara Achingale, Food Ambassador from Hartlepool

"I'm a mother of two. International Women’s Day is deeply meaningful to me as it marks the struggles and resilience of women like myself, who have endured the harsh realities of poverty, pain and isolation.

"As a mother, I’ve witnessed the strength of women who, despite their own burdens, rise to care for others. Despite all the challenges I've faced in life, I'm proud of my ability to persevere and provide for my children even in the face of overwhelming odds.

"The women who’ve inspired me are those who fight quietly, without recognition, but carry entire communities on their shoulders. My special admiration goes to Angélique Kidjo, a Beninese-French singer-songwriter, actress and activist.

"I dream of a world where no woman or child is defined by their struggles. A world where every mother has the support and resources she needs to nourish her children, and where every child has access to the food, love, and care they deserve. A world where we all thrive, not just survive.

"I pray to see a world where no woman is defined by her past, where support systems are built to uplift women in every aspect of their lives, and where we are all given equal rights despite our race, culture and religion.

"My advice to all beautiful and strong women out there is; celebrate your strength, resilience, and limitless potentials. You are a force of nature, breaking barriers and shaping the future. Always stand tall and be proud of yourself, continue to inspire those around you. The world is better because of the courage and power you bring!! 

"Happy Women's Day and lots of love!"