Every March, the world turns pink and purple as social media is filled with hashtags #IWD, #EmpowerHer, #GenderEquality, and #BreakTheBias. Companies roll out campaigns, influencers write powerful words, and the world in general winks in approval that women need to be treated in a special way. But beyond the hashtags fading, how do we go beyond performative actions and actually stand with women in real, tangible ways to accelerate their meaningful actions? This is how to empower women not just on International Women’s Day but every day
1. Support women-owned businesses
Money talks, and where you send yours matters. Be it buying from a woman-owned enterprise, investing in a female-owned service, or investing in women-owned start-ups, dollar support directly enhances women and achieves economic autonomy. Instead of tweeting #WomenSupportingWomen without doing anything else, make intentional choices where your money goes.
2. Advocate for equal pay and opportunities
The gender pay gap isn’t just a talking point; it’s a reality. If you’re in a position of influence, push for pay transparency and equitable compensation. Encourage mentorship programs and advocate for female colleagues in decision-making spaces. Elevating one woman has a ripple effect on many others.
READ ALSO: IWD: Nigerian Women Who Made History & We Love Them for It
3. Challenge everyday sexism
Sexism is not always shouty and obvious. It can be the throwaway comments in team meetings, the stereotyping of leadership potential, or the differential expectations. Call it out when you see gender bias—either in the workplace, in conversations, or even in your own head. Additionally, don’t say to a woman something you would not say to a man.
4. Share the load at home
Women still perform unequal domestic and emotional labour, managing houses, children, and careers at the same time. It’s not just assisting in shopping for groceries, repairing pipes, and constructing shelves; it also entails cleaning the kitchen, driving the school drop-offs, and playing roles in the home. Equality truly starts at your own home.
5. Sponsor and mentor women
Women thrive in spaces where they feel seen and supported. If you’re in a leadership position, mentor young women, recommend them for roles, and amplify their voices in professional settings. Sponsorship goes beyond mentorship—it’s actively advocating for women when opportunities arise.
6. Call out harassment and inequality
No matter where it occurs, online or offline, harassment silences women and keeps them back. Be a friend by standing up against harassment, whether in the workplace, in public, or on the internet. Push for policies and systems that uphold women’s rights and safety.
7. Raise feminist boys and girls
Empowerment starts early. Educate boys and girls that gender does not determine worth, potential, or aspirations. Educate boys to be allies and girls to occupy space, challenge boundaries, and have big dreams.
8. Vote for policies that support women
Real change is through policy. Battle for equal pay, paid family leave, cheap childcare, and refuge from violence based on gender. Your vote is among the most powerful channels of positive change.
9. Listen and amplify women’s voices
Representation counts. Also, read books written by women, hear from female speakers, and listen to women’s experiences. When women speak, trust them. When women are leading, stand behind them. When women are telling their stories, learn from them.
READ ALSO: Unseen challenges women leaders face
10. Make it an everyday commitment
Empowering women isn’t just a thing you do on March 8th. It’s a process that requires action, responsibility, and intention. Do more than the hashtag—embosse supporting women as a lifestyle, not a brief moment in the social media buzz.
True empowerment isn’t performative. It’s a change of heart, a habit, and a commitment to build a better world. And it starts with you. On this IWD, what can a woman next to you remember you for? Let’s hear your voice.
