International Women’s Day provides an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women everywhere. This year’s theme is #EmbraceEquity, which according to the IWD website means:  

Imagine a gender-equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that’s diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge women’s equality. Collectively we can all #EmbraceEquity. 

Celebrate women’s achievement. Raise awareness about discrimination. Take action to drive gender parity. 

IWD belongs to everyone, everywhere. Inclusion means all IWD action is valid. 

In recognition of IWD 2023, we want to introduce to our (almost entirely) female team – and share a bit about what this year’s theme means to each of them.  

As a brand – we want to state that regardless of gender, everyone deserves to be treated with kindness and respect, and to have their voice heard. We hope that by bringing attention to #EmbraceEquity, our communities understand that this applies to everyone regardless of gender identity, race, sexual orientation, etc.  

“Recognizing the vital role that women play in all aspects of society is the first step to achieving gender parity. As women, it is so important we lift each other up and champion the multitude of different ways women are leading, innovating, and re-shaping our world.” – Sarah Warren, Manager of Sales & Partnerships
“I love that this year’s IWD theme of embracing equity highlights the importance of celebrating our differences. Diversity is necessary for growth and progress; it’s precious and makes this world a beautiful and interesting place. I believe that by acknowledging and embracing our differences, we can achieve great things that will benefit society as a whole. IWD creates the space needed to have open discussions, consider discrimination and biases, and celebrate our uniqueness. It is within this space that all possibilities exist, and we can choose to shift our actions towards a world of equity.” – Anna Jean Reid, Director of Research & Product Development
“Every human has a unique story. Therefore understanding and embracing the beautiful diversity of humans, learning from differing opinions and experiences, and eliminating our own biases, is the path we must take to achieve equality. Because ultimately, the path to equality starts with #EmbracingEquity.” – Bessy Nikolaou, VP, Marketing
“I believe this IWD theme is important because it will help bring awareness to inclusion and equality. As a mother of two young women I feel that it’s so important that they know and understand that we’re all equal; it’s ok to be different and your thoughts and opinions are still valued and important.” – Jeanette Lumsden, Manager of Regulatory Affairs & Quality
“”I’m proud to work with a team of strong women in positions of leadership at Bend Beauty. As a brand, we want to state that regardless of gender, everyone deserves to be treated with kindness and respect, and to have their voice heard. We hope that by bringing attention to #EmbraceEquity, our communities understand that this applies to everyone regardless of gender, race, sexual orientation, etc.” – Brooke Stephen, Marketing Manager
Kath’s favourite part of her role with Bend Beauty and other clients is creating equitable and inclusive systems and processes that work to build a strong sense of belonging within in teams and in organizations. She hopes that her contributions will add to the collective movement and ultimately that this work is no longer necessary because it’s just the way things are done! – Kath Perry, VP, People & Process