10 Powerful Ways to Celebrate International Women’s Day in Schools & Communities

International Women’s Day (IWD) is more than just a day of recognition—it’s a movement that calls for action, awareness, and empowerment. Whether you’re an educator, community leader, or mentor, celebrating IWD in a meaningful way can inspire and uplift those around you. Here are 10 powerful ways to honor IWD in schools and communities, ensuring that the message of equality and empowerment resonates far beyond March 8.

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1. Host an International Women’s Day Assembly

Bring students and community members together for an inspiring assembly that highlights the achievements of women throughout history. Include:

• Guest speakers from your community (business leaders, activists, educators, athletes).

• Video presentations or slideshows featuring influential women.

• A panel discussion where students can ask questions and engage in meaningful dialogue.

2. Organize a ‘Who Inspires You?’ Wall

Create a display where students and community members can write about the women who inspire them. This could be:

• Historical figures like Rosa Parks or Malala Yousafzai.

• Personal role models like mothers, teachers, or mentors.

• A combination of public figures and personal stories.

Encourage participants to write a short note explaining why they admire their chosen woman and add it to the wall for all to see.

3. Lead a ‘Break the Bias’ Pledge Activity

Encourage students and community members to take the ‘Break the Bias’ Pledge, committing to challenge gender stereotypes and promote inclusivity. Provide:

• Printable pledge cards where participants can write how they will take action.

• A group discussion about everyday biases and how to challenge them.

• A collective affirmation: “I pledge to challenge bias, speak up for fairness, and create a more inclusive world.”

4. Create an ‘Empowered Women, Empower Girls’ Poster Exhibit

Engage students in a creative activity where they design posters showcasing inspirational women from history, politics, science, sports, and entertainment. Provide:

• Magazines and newspapers for collage-making.

• Markers and art supplies for drawing.

• Fact sheets with information on diverse and influential women.

Display the posters around your school or community center to inspire ongoing conversation.

5. Run a Confidence & Leadership Workshop for Girls

Host a workshop to help girls develop confidence and leadership skills. Topics can include:

• Overcoming self-doubt and embracing strengths.

• Public speaking and advocacy.

• The importance of mentorship and supporting other women.

Use interactive activities like the Be Bold & Fearless Confidence Workshop to make the session engaging and impactful.

6. Celebrate Women in STEM, Sports & Leadership

Highlight achievements of women in traditionally male-dominated fields by:

• Hosting a ‘Women in STEM’ panel with female scientists and engineers.

• Inviting female athletes to share their experiences in sports.

• Encouraging students to research and present on women who have made history in leadership roles.

This helps challenge gender stereotypes and show young girls that they can pursue any career path they choose.

7. Organize a Community Service or Fundraising Event

Use IWD as an opportunity to give back to the community by:

• Fundraising for local women’s shelters or education programs for girls.

• Organizing a donation drive for hygiene products, books, or professional clothing for women in need.

• Volunteering with organizations that support women’s empowerment.

8. Host a Film Screening & Discussion

Screen a documentary or film that highlights women’s rights and achievements, such as:

• He Named Me Malala (about Malala Yousafzai’s fight for girls’ education).

• Hidden Figures (about Black women mathematicians at NASA).

• RBG (about Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg).

Follow up with a group discussion on key themes and lessons from the film.

9. Encourage Positive Self-Talk & Affirmations

Teach students the power of positive self-talk with activities like:

• Writing affirmations on sticky notes and placing them on mirrors or lockers.

• Practicing daily affirmations in the morning or before class.

• Encouraging discussions on how self-talk affects confidence.

Use the Self-Esteem & Positive Affirmations Mini Session to guide this activity.

10. Keep the Conversation Going Beyond March 8

The impact of IWD shouldn’t stop after one day! Continue the conversation by:

• Implementing the FearlesslyKiND School Curriculum to teach empowerment year-round.

• Starting a monthly women’s empowerment club or discussion group.

• Encouraging mentorship programs that pair young women with role models.

International Women’s Day is an opportunity to educate, inspire, and empower. By implementing even one of these activities, you can help foster a culture of confidence, leadership, and inclusivity in your school or community.

Want a done-for-you toolkit to make planning your IWD event effortless? Check out the International Women’s Day Celebration Kit—packed with workshops, activities, and resources to help you host an impactful and empowering event!