University of Westminster celebrates International Women's Day: Inspiring Inclusion

The International Women’s Day 2024 event focused on the theme Inspire Inclusion and was led by Lecturer in Social Sciences Dr Natasha Ramachandran. The programme celebrated the achievements of women and emphasised the importance of creative expression and empowering their voices. Attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose to continue pushing for a world where inclusion is not just an aspiration, but a reality.

The afternoon began with a warm welcome, accompanied by a carefully curated music playlist that set the stage for celebration. Attendees participated in several creative activities, including collaborative painting on a large canvas - a testament to the power of collective creation. A professional photographer was also on site to capture profile pictures, offering an additional platform for self-expression.

The event featured a lineup of speakers from various departments in the University, each bringing a unique perspective to the theme. Dr Randhir Auluck, Head of the School of Organisation, Economy, and Society, gave a captivating poetry performance. Senior Lecturer in Organisations, Economy and Society Dr Rukhsana Kausar also contributed a powerful poetry reading. Senior Lecturer in Social Sciences Zainab Alkhoee explored the complexities of grief through a showcase of her photography. Senior Lecturer in Social Sciences Dr Thalia Magioglou offered a thought-provoking written piece, and Visiting Lecturer in Liberal Arts and Sciences Johana Burloux shared a written piece on her personal journey as a cancer survivor. Finally, College Academic Administration Officer, Debs Harris, presented a self-portrait related to the worst moments of her disability.

Dr Natasha Ramachandran ended the event with a powerful message: to empower vulnerability. This key takeaway emphasised the strength found in authenticity and the importance of creating a space for all voices to be heard.

EDI Events Manager Zahrah Surooprajally said: “It was so heartwarming to hear such personal stories from our very own colleagues. All the speakers inspired me to see the beauty, humanity and creativity in all manner of everyday life.” 

Dr Natasha Ramachandran said: “It was an honour to welcome attendees from all around London including Professor Wendy Thomson, Vice Chancellor of University of London and members of the Royal Society of Arts (RSA). As a result of this event, I have won a bursary following an invitation to become a Fellow of the RSA, building our networks, further emphasising the power of such events.” 

Professor Dibyesh Anand, University of Westminster Interim Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Global Engagement and Employability and Co-Chair of the University’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Committee, said: “As part of our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion as well as to the UN Sustainable Development Goal 5, Gender Equality, we are keen to work together to challenge gender-based inequities.” 

This event directly contributed to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5: Gender Equality. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.

Learn more about Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at the University of Westminster.