International Women's Day 2026

02 March 2026

Sunday 8th of March 2026 marks International Women’s Day (IWD) – and for over a century, IWD has provided an important opportunity for groups worldwide advocating for gender equality.

The theme for International Women’s Day this year is ‘Give to Gain’.

When we give, we gain, and the 2026 campaign encourages a mindset of generosity and collaboration.

Give To Gain emphasises the power of reciprocity and support. When people, organisations, and communities give generously, opportunities and support for women increase. 

There are a number of ways in which colleagues across our own organisation can get involved and Give to Gain.

We know so many of our colleagues give their time and skills, both in work and in their own time, and we’d love to shine a light on the amazing ways you support your community.

Whether you volunteer for an organisation, support a local group, or give back in your own way, tell us about it here (link) so we can celebrate you!

We will also be holding a drop-in coffee morning for International Women’s Day on Monday 9th March 2026 in the Dunraven Room at the Civic Offices in Barry between 10:00am – 12:30pm.

During the session, there will be opportunities to network and meet colleagues from across the Council and share our collective knowledge and experiences. All are welcome to attend and support the event.

There will also be a chance to hear about some of the fantastic things our colleagues have gotten up to whilst volunteering their time in support of others, as well as information on the many volunteering opportunities that support women and girls locally and across Wales.

In the spirit of sharing knowledge to help others, colleagues in OD and Learning launched their ‘Pearls of Wisdom’ campaign for International Women’s Day 2026.

The idea is that colleagues share a ‘pearl of wisdom’ that they have gained during their time in their role with others in our organisation. 

That might be:

• a piece of advice that changed your perspective
• a book, podcast, or video that influenced your leadership
• a quote that continues to guide you
• or an action or habit that has strengthened your confidence, resilience, or clarity

Colleagues shared their 'Pearls' in whichever format felt most natural, whether that was a video or voice recording, a written piece or link to a podcast, TV or radio show.

We'll be sharing some of the 'Pearls' across our channels over the coming days until IWD2026, as well as at the drop-in coffee morning.