Wandsworth Council marks International Women's Day 2025

International Women’s Day is on Saturday 8 March, and the Council is marking the occasion to celebrate and highlight the work we do year-round to support women in our borough. From offering female-led business, education, sport and leisure opportunities, to working closely with partners to tackle violence against women and girls, the Council is committed to improving opportunities for everyone in Wandsworth. 

Earlier this week, we attended an International Women’s Day (IWD) event in Parliament to spotlight the role of our Roehampton Youth Base in providing a safe space for young women and girls. Last year, we launched our Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Strategy, which includes services like the Safe Space Wandsworth Initiative open every Friday evening to support anyone feeling vulnerable on a night out in Clapham Junction.

We have also established a women and girls working group as part of our Wandsworth Moves Together Strategy to develop a plan with the aim to get more women and girls more active and involved in volunteering or employment roles linked to sport.

Deputy Council Leader, Kemi Akinola said: “This IWD, it's important that we take action by up lifting and empowering women and girls, turning dreams into reality.

“At Wandsworth, all our learning, employment and enjoyment opportunities are focused on doing exactly this. And we cannot do this without our allies. I urge everyone to take part in one of the upcoming events.”

Upcoming International Women’s Day Events

Met Police Safer Neighbourhood Team

On Saturday 8 March from 10am to 12pm, come along to an event at Parthian Climbing Wandsworth where there will be a guided climbing session for women and girls specifically and an opportunity to engage with local Met Police officers about preventing violence against women and girls, and safety.

Address: 52-58 Garratt Lane Wandsworth London SW18 4FT

Sign up for a climbing spot, or if you don’t want to climb, turn up on the day for a chat.

Wandsworth Moves Together – Boosting Women and Girls participation, volunteering, coaching and employment in sports and physical activity

Wandsworth is supporting women in sport. Join us on Wednesday 12 March (9am to 11:30am, online) for an inspiring workshop focused on breaking barriers and creating more opportunities for women and girls in Wandsworth to get active, volunteer, and thrive in sports.

Expect insights from local groups, collaboration opportunities, and ways to get involved.

Register now and be part of the movement.

Women’s Enterprise Day 2025

Wandsworth’s female founders and entrepreneurs are invited to be inspired at the 2025 Women’s Enterprise Day event. On Wednesday 26 March, this event is a celebration of female entrepreneurship and includes a panel discussion with local entrepreneurs, motivational talks, keynote interviews, interactive workshops and a networking lunch.

Read more about the speakers at the event and book your ticket.

Events earlier this week

SW15 Women’s Network IWD celebration

On Wednesday 5 March at the Alton Activity Centre, the SW15 Women’s Network hosted a celebration featuring a fashion show, suncatcher making, henna hand tattoos, candle making, prize raffle and international food.

The Women of Power Conference 2025

On Friday 7 March (today) from 9:30am to 3:30pm, Storm Family Centre and Sanctuary 4 Sisterhood co-hosted a day filled with inspiration, fun, and celebration, attended by Mayor Sana Jafri and Councillor Dobres. Highlights included catering by MasterChef’s Louise Simms, guest speakers, entertainment by Alicia Warren and Phoenix, and various workshops and activities like manicures, makeovers, and engaging presentations.

A fashion show featured designs from talented women, and a certificate ceremony will honour those who have completed exams at STORM. There were also goodie bags, giveaways, stalls, and live music, which made for an exciting and enriching experience. The event aimed to celebrate women, foster community engagement, and provide empowerment.

International Women’s Day 2025 theme

The theme for 2025 is ‘For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.’ The UN Women UK website describes the day as, “more than a celebration – it’s a call to action. We must act boldly and decisively for all women and girls.

“Change starts here, with you – and with empowering the next generation. Young women, girls, and youth are the catalysts for lasting transformation.”

To find out more about International Women’s Day, head to the UN website.

How can you get involved?

Register for any of our events above or find events in your local communities.