As we approach International Women’s Day, we caught up with Melissa Sayers, EA to the SLT, and Emma Evans, Senior National Accounts Manager to get their thoughts, both personally and professionally on IWD and the theme Accelerate Action for gender equality.

Firstly, we caught up with Melissa Sayers, our Executive Assistant to the Senior Leadership Team:

“Professionally, I feel IWD is an important message to all to show that women deserve to be in the rooms where decisions are being made and that our impact is greater than ever. Problem-solving is often a strength in women, contributing to a more balanced and diverse perspective compared to a male-dominated environment!

Women being in higher positions these days helps forge a path for those following and shows them they can achieve anything they work hard enough to and that gender, or anything else for that matter, shouldn’t be a determining factor to what they can accomplish in their working life.

While I work in a background character kind of role, as in I support others, I still know when to have a voice and support others in doing the same. “

“Personally, I love how empowering my friendship group and family are to me as a strong woman. I have lived in a very male dominant sport for a long time in my powerlifting era. I feel I have helped re-educate so many on what women can achieve and to rid them of toxic stereotypes just by being there!

I am the mother to a son who is encouraged to express his feelings with no shame or embarrassment around ‘feeling’. This will help him in the future, and I feel I am doing my part in helping raise a more emotionally intelligent individual who has a great respect for women and their part in the world. “

Emma Evans, our Senior National Accounts Manager, who looks after our key Care Home partners, also had her take:

“Professionally, I value the strong female leaders who inspire and support others. Women are not only taking on leadership roles, but they are redefining what it means to lead, breaking free from old, outdated moulds. As a mother, I’m deeply committed to setting an example for the next generation, showing that women can lead, achieve, and thrive, no matter the challenges.

And, being at a certain age, it’s empowering to see that women can be feminine and still lead effectively without having to adopt traditionally masculine traits to succeed.”

“Personally: International Women’s Day serves as a time for reflection on the incredible women who have shaped my life and continue to provide support. I celebrate the strength, resilience, and kindness of the women around me, from family members to close friends. Female friendships are essential to me—they provide strength, laughter, and unwavering support. The incredible women in my life lift me up, and I cherish those bonds deeply.

My mum raised me to be hardworking and proud of who I am. Her determination, love, and sacrifices shaped me into the person I am today, and I celebrate her life by living mine to the fullest.”

To find out more about International Women’s Day, you can visit: https://www.internationalwomensday.com/ where you’ll find information on how to get involved and download some valuable resources!