Give to Gain: Celebrating Women Who Inspire and Empower

This International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating the amazing women who show that when we give our time, support and kindness, we all grow together.

We spoke to three brilliant women from Inspiring Communities Together about who inspires them, what they’d love to give to help women thrive and how giving has shaped their own journeys.

Andrea – Age-Friendly Salford Development Worker
Andrea finds inspiration in her mum, a proud Salford woman who taught her to stand tall, show empathy and believe in herself. Her gift to other women? Self-belief. Andrea gives her time by listening, encouraging others and celebrating their achievements, helping confidence ripple through the community.

Tonicha – Age-Friendly Salford Development Worker
Kindness and respect are at the heart of what inspires Tonicha, passed down from her mum’s simple message: “Treat others like you would like to be treated.” She wants women to recognise their own worth and trust their instincts. Through Check and Chat calls and community activities, she shows up, offers support and helps people grow in confidence.

Juliet – Social Work Student on Placement
Juliet is inspired by Dr. Ngozi Okonjo‑Iweala’s leadership values of empathy, courage and listening. Her gift to women would be empowerment. Through Walk and Talk, Brew and Chat and other activities, she gives her time and energy to support older adults and gains experience, insight and resilience in return.

This International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating women who lift others up and prove that when we give, we truly gain.