I’m sure you have seen that yesterday, March 8th, was International Women’s day. Some believe this day is a day to celebrate our mothers, sisters, aunts, grandmothers, etc., which is not all wrong. However, on days like this, we should commemorate and honour women’s accomplishments and focus on bringing attention to gender equality, reproductive rights, and violence and abuse against women.

2022/23 has been a big year for Women.

We have seen our very own Lionesses beat Germany 2-1 in the final of the Euros. England’s first major trophy since the men’s side won the World Cup in 1966. The Women’s England team surpassed the Men’s Team regarding an award, and the government has now granted girls equal access to sports. The stigma that men are better than women in sports should be scrapped, and this is a massive step in the right direction—all thanks to our Queen Lionesses.

On the topic of football, Stephanie Frappart has made history by becoming the first woman to referee the men’s Champions League & World Cup. This is a huge achievement and testament to Frappart’s hard work and determination, as the English Premier League only have around 50 female referees employed in their organisation.

It most definitely does not stop there. American actress Ariana DeBose makes Oscar history by being the first openly queer woman of colour to win an Oscar.

On a heavier note, the Women of Iran have endured years of rape, torture, and imprisonment. But they have since fought for their rights and their daughter’s futures. They are protesting against the government’s repression and demanding their freedom. The strength these women have to stand up for their rights and improve the lives of future Women of Iran takes a lot of bravery and determination, making them the most deserving ‘Heroes of the Year 2022’ winners.

Unfortunately, it isn’t just the Women of Iran who have to fight for their fundamental rights as human beings. Since the takeover of Afghanistan by the Taliban in August 2021, women have been banished from public office and the judiciary. As well as being refused the right to education, today, Afghanistan’s women and girls are required to adhere to a strict dress code and are prohibited from travelling more than 75km without a mahram. They are expected to stay at home. Even before the Taliban, one in three girls was obligated to marry before their 18th birthday. This high number has increased further since 2021. These innocent adolescent girls are at the age where consent isn’t even legal yet. These women’s strength and resilience to stand up to their government is unparalleled.

More attention needs to be drawn, and more action must occur.

This past year has been liberating for Women across the globe. Whether they have stood up to their oppressive government or achieved greatness in sports and TV, every achievement has its special meaning and purpose.

I am lucky to be surrounded by many strong women, from my family to friends. We push each other to reach limits we all can achieve and support each other through thick and thin.

Sport was a massive part of my upbringing. I was a pretty impressive runner during my early teens. I competed in overseas competitions for my home county and school, but as I got older, I started to let the idea of a young girl being good at sports become a negative thing. If I had carried on, I would have been able to do some amazing things with that exceptional talent I once had. If you take anything from this, let it be this. Never let anyone tell you you can’t do what you love. It’s cool to be good at something. Whether you are a girl or a boy, if you can run, run.

Happy International Women’s day to all you Badass Women 🤍 & Justice for Afghanistan and Iran.

-H