International Women's Day
International Women's Day (IWD), celebrated annually on March 8, is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for advancing gender equality.
IWD has been around for well over a century, with the first IWD marked in 1911.
Celebrate women's achievements through recognising and appreciating the contributions of women in various fields, highlighting their influence and successes throughout history and in the present day.
Raise awareness of gender inequality through shining a light on persistent issues like the gender pay gap, lack of representation in leadership roles, gender-based violence, and unequal access to education and opportunities.
Mobilise action for equality through encouraging individuals, communities, and organisations to take steps toward creating a more inclusive and equitable world for women.
Donate and fundraise for women-focused charities, and elevate the visibility of their work.
Foster solidarity among people of all genders in support of women's rights and gender parity worldwide.
Our International Women's Day leaflet 2026 (PDF, 1 MB) celebrates the incredible achievements, leadership and community spirit of women across Lewes District and Eastbourne. Inside, you'll find inspiring stories from local women, highlights of community events, practical wellbeing and safety support, and ways to get involved in shaping a more equal future. It's a warm, uplifting read that showcases the strength and generosity women bring to our neighbourhoods every day.
This leaflet has been sent via email to all Lewes District and Eastbourne Council tenants, and is available to download here as a PDF: International Women's Day leaflet 2026 (PDF, 1 MB)
Eastbourne's International Women's Day 2026 event at Gather in the Beacon Shopping Centre
Join volunteers and community groups for this year's International Women's Day (IWD) celebration, right in the heart of Eastbourne. With the global theme "Give To Gain", 2026 is all about the shared power of generosity—how giving strengthens communities, creates opportunity, and lifts us all. Taking place on Sunday, 8 March 2026 from10:30am to 3:30pm at The Gather in the Beacon Shopping Centre, this year's message is simple but profound: When we give, we gain.
Giving isn't a loss, it's multiplication of connection, empowerment, and possibility. Whether we share knowledge, time, resources, creativity or advocacy, each of us plays a role in creating a world where women and girls can thrive.
What's Happening on the Day?
Our day is shaped by celebration, creativity and inspiration—focusing on women who have changed the world, both globally and right here in Eastbourne.
- "Give to Gain" Photo Project - Throughout the day, a photographer will be capturing portraits of visitors—hands held out in a gesture of giving. People are also invited to send in their own photos ahead of time to create a collage display during the event.
- Film Screening: Being a Woman- Created by Creative Force for IWD 2017, this insightful and still-relevant film will be shown on loop, offering a thoughtful reflection on womanhood around the world.
- Crochet Flowers in IWD Colours - Inspired by Eastern European traditions of gifting flowers on IWD, every woman who joins the event will be given a handmade flower in purple, white and green. Local makers and groups like the Scrap Store are contributing their creations.
- The Living Library - Meet inspirational women from Eastbourne and beyond. Sit down for a conversation, hear their stories, and discover the ideas and influences that have shaped their journeys.
- Tree of Inspiration - Share the women who inspire you—past or present—by adding their names or quotes to a beautiful community tree.
- Women's Voices: What Matters to You? We want to know what women in Eastbourne need and hope for. Add your thoughts, drawings or ideas to a long mural-style wallpaper display. And yes—men are warmly invited to contribute too!
- White Ribbon Pledges - Men are encouraged to make a pledge to help keep women safe in our town, and to challenge inappropriate or harmful behaviour when they see it.
- Community Singing, Drumming and Dancing - Join in for a joyful half-hour of rhythm, voice and movement. No experience needed—just enthusiasm!
- Crafting Corner - Make your own bead friendship bracelet or decorate a wooden coaster. Perfect for all ages.
Living Library inspirational women include:
- Dorit Oliver Woolf BEM, Holocaust survivor and Honorary Freewoman of Eastbourne;
- Mana Ellis from the Sanctuary Café, which exists to welcome people seeking refuge - offering a safe space for community, connection and counsel;
- Laura Murphy, Founder of Wayfinder Woman, which provides a peer support service, using lived experience-led sessions for women in Eastbourne navigating life's challenges;
- Carole Gregory, who works as the outreach trainer for Care for the Carers. Carole cared for her husband who she nursed until he passed away, both of her parents and both of her children;
- Claire Hackney Ring, local artist and founder of Flourish and Thrive, which provides emotional support, peer networks, and confidence-building for survivors of domestic abuse;
- Carol Ann Slater, also an artist but with an extensive history as a dedicated nurse at the forefront of revolutionising the care for people with HIV / AIDS back in the 80's.
We can't wait to see you there. Thanks go to Cllr Sayers-Cooper, Champion for Women and Girl's Rights, who is the organising lead for the event. And Eastbourne Chamber of Commerce for their generous support in helping bring this event to life.
View the full press release - International Women's Day celebration comes to The Gather in Eastbourne
