Celebrated globally on March 8, International Women’s Day is marked around the world as a moment to recognise the achievements of women while reflecting on the work still to be done toward equality. While its roots lie in activism and collective progress, the day has also become an opportunity to spotlight the voices, perspectives and experiences of women across industries and communities.
This year’s theme, Give To Gain, centres on the idea that generosity, whether through mentorship, advocacy, resources or visibility, helps create more opportunities for women to thrive.
To mark the occasion, we spoke with five women shaping Aotearoa’s creative landscape: Sarah Murray, Caitlin Crisp, Zeenat Wilkinson, Carrie Berkey and Rachel Soo Thow, to ask a simple question: what does power mean to you? Their answers reveal that power can take many forms, from independence to community and collaboration.
Below, discover their reflections, plus three ways to support and celebrate women this International Women’s Day.
Sarah Murray, editor in chief
“I feel most powerful in the quiet discipline of routine. Waking before the sun, moving my body, mapping out the day before the kids are up – it gives me clarity and momentum. But I also feel it in the flow of magazine life: when deadlines are met, ideas land, the team is excited and everything is humming. Creating that rhythm – at home and at work – feels powerful to me.”
Caitlin Crisp, fashion designer
“As a designer, I feel most powerful with a great outfit, hair and make up done and ready for the day. As a working mother, I feel most powerful when the washing is up-to-date and emails are cleared. It’s not often I achieve all of the above but that would be the ultimate.”
Carrie Berkey, model
“I keep myself in my own power by focusing on self-leadership. By staying focused on rest, nutrition and exercise, I become incredibly grounded. When I invest love into myself, I feel anchored and powerful and when I feel this way~ everything feels like a win! Adding in education and staying connected with supportive friends enhances this strength, creating a powerful harmony that I aim to preserve indefinitely.”
Zeenat Wilkinson, content creator
“I feel most powerful during the process of creating something meaningful – when an idea transforms from imagination into reality, or when I can bring friends and communities together.”
Rachel Soo Thow, content creator
“Knowing that time to myself is so sacred is what makes me feel most powerful. Being in a relationship, I still see myself regardless as an independent woman not defined by my relationship status but rather one carved out by character, interests, achievements and ambition. To be with a partner that cherishes and supports your interests as much as you do his, forms a mutual respect that leaves me feeling invincible.”
Three ways to support and celebrate women this International Women’s Day
Michael Hill: Pearls with purpose
Jewellery brand Michael Hill is marking International Women’s Day by continuing its work through the Michael Hill Foundation, supporting organisations that empower women. For every pearl piece sold, a portion of proceeds is donated to charities dedicated to women’s wellbeing. Since 2021, the foundation has worked toward a goal of empowering 100,000 lives by 2030, including through its ongoing partnership with Women’s Refuge New Zealand, which provides safe shelter and support for women and children escaping violence.
Naomi Ogg, CEO of Women’s Refuge, says the partnership has already helped provide thousands of safe nights for women and children seeking refuge. Supporting initiatives like this is one way to embrace this year’s International Women’s Day theme, Give To Gain.
To shop the pearls, visit michaelhill.co.nz.
Tahi Skincare’s giving initiative
New Zealand-made brand tahi skincare is marking International Women’s Day with a week-long giving initiative in partnership with Worth Unlimited. From March 8 to 15, the brand will donate five percent of net sales to the Aotearoa-based organisation, which supports women and young people experiencing disadvantage to build confidence, skills and pathways toward employment and independence.
Founded on the idea that understanding personal worth can create lasting change, Worth Unlimited’s programmes focus on strengthening wellbeing, resilience and financial stability for individuals and their whānau. The initiative offers a simple way for customers to support organisations working directly with women and communities across New Zealand.
Support the initiative here tahiskincare.com.
Looking for an event to attend?
On Thursday 12 March, from 12pm-1pm, join a lunchtime session at the Network for Learning Auckland office to celebrate International Women’s Day and this year’s theme. Expect inspiring talks and a chance to connect with like-minded people – all focused on how generosity, collaboration, and support can help women and girls thrive.
Register your interest here internationalwomensday.com.
