IWD Light Up shines a light on the importance of women's inclusion

IWD Light Up is an annual campaign aimed at shining a light on women's equality. Learn more about IWD Light Up here.  

Aston University, a leading UK university where students aspire to succeed in business and the professions, is one of the many progressive organizations worldwide that has participated in IWD Light Up.

The Aston University Library [pictured above] adorned an impressive hue of purple for International Women's Day as the group delivered a series of insightful talks and impactful events marking the day. Aston University's vision is to create an inclusive environment in which individuals can operate at all levels regardless of their personal circumstances. The University's Inspiring Women @ Aston group helps develop and support its women to achieve.

IWD Light Up saw groups worldwide shine a light on women's equality

State Street buildings around the globe lit up in purple to celebrate International Women's Day and shine a light on gender equality for the 2024 IWD Light Up and raise awareness about the call to Inspire Inclusion across communities.

"This International Women's Day we celebrate the women who break barriers, challenge the status quo, and pave the way for those who follow. Let us seize this opportunity to truly #InspireInclusion in all that we do," commented the group.

"...At State Street, inclusion is embedded in our culture and the foundation of our success and innovation. Within our organization, we aim to lead by example in creating opportunities for all. Embracing diverse talent, empowering women, and ensuring every voice is heard is not just the right thing to do – it is critical to our resilience and growth. When women thrive, societies prosper, and economies flourish. I invite you to join me in championing gender equity by mentoring, supporting, and uplifting the women around us. Let us seize this opportunity to truly inspire inclusion in all that we do," said Ronald O'Hanley, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer at State Street.

Across the world IWD's purple light shines

Southern Downs Regional Council is located in the idyllic Southern Downs region of Queensland, Australia. It's an agricultural hub that offers an outstanding mix of investment and business opportunities, industrial and rural locations, and a relaxed country lifestyle. It's home to a number of National Parks, an important part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, major events, and Queensland's only cold climate wine country, the Granite Belt. It really is a great place to live, work, play and stay.

To mark International Women's Day, the Southern Downs Regional Council lit up the Warwick Town Hall's historic tower [pictured above], the Southern Downs Regional Council Stanthorpe Administration Building, and also its Weeroona Park in community solidarity marking International Women's Day.

"International Women's Day has become a time to reflect on progress, to call for change, and to celebrate the courage and determination of the women who changed history, and those who will advance gender equality into the future," said the Council.

Solar-powered Ferris wheel lights up for IWD

Pacific Park’s famous solar-powered Ferris wheel on Santa Monica Pier lit up to mark IWD.

The famous solar-powered Ferris wheel lit up using the colors purple, green and white - IWD's colors signifying justice, dignity, and hope.

The special light program ran from dusk to midnight on IWD, with the best views enjoyed from the Santa Monica Pier boardwalk just west of the amusement park, and from the beaches south of the Pier.

The Ferris wheel's IWD Light UP program was also delivered live online.

Engaging the local community

Boroondara in Melbourne, Australia lit up its Hawthorn Arts Centre in purple to celebrate IWD. "This day is an opportunity to celebrate the women of Boroondara and the important contributions they make in our community and beyond," said Boroondara City Council.

And it's not solely the big infrastructure...

Smaller organizations across the world have also been involved in IWD Light Up.

Here's Boutique Brows and Body from Hobart in Tasmania, Australia making its mark "in celebration of the incredible community of women" they have around them.

"Each and everyday we have the honor of serving women, our loyal clients, and we sincerely thank you as we don’t take your custom for granted," said the group.

Thank you to all the IWD Light UP groups

Across the world, communities stepped forward in solidarity to shine a light on women's equality.

Make sure you're involved for the next one!