Introduction: This International Women’s Day, The Moodie Davitt Report is not only celebrating the achievements of women in travel retail and beyond but also taking action to support real change. In line with this year’s theme Accelerate Action, our team – both women and men – are actively contributing by making donations to charity organisations, supporting IWD events and participating in local community gatherings that champion gender equality.
The Accelerate Action theme for IWD 2025 highlights the urgency of breaking down barriers and addressing systemic biases that continue to impact women in workplaces and society. With projections indicating that full gender parity may not be realised until 2158, the need for meaningful action is clear.
At The Moodie Davitt Report, we believe in moving beyond words to tangible impact. This International Women’s Day, we stand alongside our industry partners, amplifying voices, driving change and accelerating action towards true gender equality.
Our Wales-based team, The Moodie Davitt Report Chief Operating Officer Sinead Moodie and Administration and Events Support Manager Kristyn Branisel, attended the ‘Overcoming barriers for women in the workplace’ event at Swansea Arena. It was organised by The Wales Council for Voluntary Action (WCVA)
Reflecting on the event, Moodie says, “International Women’s Day is very important to me as a feminist and I wanted to take this opportunity to learn more about how I can support my fellow women in the workplace.
“The panel provided lots of practical advice about changes we as employers and employees can make in the workplace to better support women, as well as how we combat ingrained sexism.
“One of the key discussions was around childcare and elderly care, both of which still predominantly fall on women,” she adds. “How can employers make it easier for women to return to work and support women who are caring for others? One of the key suggestions was having family-friendly work policies, such as working from home and allowing flexible working hours. I am very proud that The Moodie Davitt Report already has both of these policies in place, and I know it has made my experience of a mother with two young children much easier.”
Moodie continues, “One of the other items discussed is tackling ignorance about women’s health. There is still a huge stigma in society about what is often referred to as ‘women’s issues’. Periods, the menopause and conditions such as endometriosis need to be more widely discussed and de-stigmatised, which would allow employees to feel able to speak to managers when they need additional support at work.
“I aim to put this into practice and encourage any employees to feel open to discuss any health needs with me and reach out if they need support. I will listen, in confidence, and not judge.
“We also had a long discussion about discrimination in the workplace, especially for BME and LGBT+ women who can find themselves facing double discrimination. As employers and employees we need to believe women when they experience discrimination. Women are often hesitant to complain as they are so often not believed or seen as problematic, or discrimination is brushed off as inconsequential. I pledge that if a woman, or anyone, in the workplace ever reports discrimination to me I will listen, believe and support them.”
Branisel adds, “I am glad Sinead and I attended this event in my home city of Swansea, Wales. It was an enriching afternoon and time well spent with like-minded individuals. With everything that is happening in world right now, it was wonderful to see so many powerful and intelligent women coming together to address the issues women face in the workplace and in the wider world. It gave me hope. There are so many incredible women out there who are working hard to make a difference for other women and for allies, and I strive to be like them. I am there for my fellow female colleagues and I will always support them.”
Hong Kong-based Events Associate Director Vincci Chung made a donation to local women’s charity HER Fund. She says, “HER Fund is a cause close to my heart because it truly empowers women from marginalised communities. It’s inspiring to see how they provide essential resources, education and opportunities to those who need them most. By tackling issues such as violence, discrimination and poverty, HER Fund plays a crucial role in promoting gender equality, making a real difference in people’s lives.
“What I love about HER Fund is their commitment to grassroots organisations that understand their communities’ specific challenges,” she adds. “The way they foster community and encourage collaboration among women’s groups is truly powerful. It creates a sense of solidarity and shared purpose. And the emphasis on leadership development – by helping women become advocates for their rights, HER Fund is nurturing the next generation of leaders. Supporting this organisation feels like contributing to a brighter, more equitable future for everyone.
Our Manila-based Associate Editor Camille Bersola joined an initiative with Bethune House, a women’s organisation focused on migrant workers’ rights. Her decision to support Bethune House stems from her own personal experiences as an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) in Macau.
Bersola explains, “During my time as a journalist in Macau, I had the privilege of advocating for migrant workers’ rights, giving voice to their demands for fair wages and improved living conditions. Even now that I’m back home in the Philippines, I continue to support these causes with the same passion.
“This International Women’s Day I am honoured to support The Bethune House Migrant Women’s Refuge, an organisation that offers temporary shelter, medical assistance and other essential services to distressed female migrant workers.
“As a former OFW my heart has always been with them, especially underprivileged women working as domestic helpers and servers, earning meagre wages to support their families back home,” Bersola adds. “Imagine the sacrifice of a mother, a sister, a wife or an aunt, leaving everything behind to live in a foreign land, often without support, facing isolation, discrimination and the pain of being reduced to a stereotype.
“While I know that ending the cycle of poverty and abuse is no small feat, I am determined to contribute in any way I can. These workers are hailed as modern-day heroes in the Philippines, yet they remain overlooked by the very systems meant to protect them. It’s time to change that.”
Research Director Jess Allerton attended a virtual International Women’s Day event centred on overcoming Imposter Syndrome in the workplace. Imposter syndrome is a psychological phenomenon where individuals doubt their abilities, feel like frauds and fear being exposed as incompetent, despite evident success and achievements.
Allerton comments, “As part of International Women’s Day 2025, coaching company GameChanger hosted a lunch and learn webinar focusing on imposter syndrome. Led by Laura Trendall, the session provided valuable insights into recognising imposter syndrome and finding effective ways to overcome it.
“Imposter syndrome can manifest in ways that hinder personal and professional growth. Those affected may hesitate to speak up, fail to take credit for their contributions and ultimately be overlooked for opportunities. This, in turn, can lead to stress, anxiety and a persistent fear of failure.
“Personally I can relate to this feeling, and I am certain that many other women – and men – face similar struggles in their careers.”
Reflecting on her key takeaways from the webinar, Allerton says, “GameChanger outlined clear strategies to help individuals recognise when self-doubt creeps in and how to overcome it. The key takeaway was that mindfulness and self-awareness are crucial first steps. Recognising that imposter syndrome is merely a perception and not reality allows individuals to challenge their negative thoughts and acknowledge their achievements. Letting go of these limiting beliefs can help build confidence and foster personal growth.
“Beyond individual strategies, the workplace plays a critical role in supporting those who struggle with imposter syndrome. Organisations can implement meaningful policies and training to address these challenges, particularly with early career support programmes. By recognising and addressing imposter syndrome, individuals and organisations alike can work towards a more confident and resilient workforce.”
Senior Business Editor Mark Lane made a cash donation to women’s animal charity Women United for Animal Welfare. He says, “The charity’s mission is one close my heart – the protection and improving the lives of companion animals around the world. I’m pleased to be able to make a donation on International Women’s Day to such a great cause as part of The Moodie Davitt Report team’s commitment to marking this special occasion.”
Our Senior Reporter Ameesha Raizada attended an improv comedy night called Nice Girls in London, organised in support of Women’s Aid. The event, hosted by the Five Not Guys collective, featured special performances by Slumber Party and Comediasians, delivering an evening filled with laughter and community spirit.
Women’s Aid is a UK-based charity dedicated to ending domestic abuse against women and children. Operating as a grassroots federation, the organisation unites local domestic violence services across England to provide life-saving support, advocacy and a safe haven for survivors.
Raizada says, “During this inaugural Nice Girls event, performers entertained the audience with a series of impromptu sketches that blended wit with social commentary. Five Not Guys set the tone with their inclusive and empowering approach, while the guests used a playful style to showcase diverse perspectives.
“Notably, the event served as a fundraising initiative for Women’s Aid, with contributions made throughout the night bolstering the charity’s mission. The evening demonstrated how creative expression can drive meaningful impact.”
The football coaching centre where our Development and Systems Operations Director Matt Willey’s daughter Evangeline plays has rolled out additional sessions for its young ‘Wildcats’ in the lead up to International Women’s Day.
This is part of The Football Association’s initiative to empower young girls by offering a fun, safe and supportive setting in which they can discover their love for football, develop teamwork skills and build enduring friendships.
“It’s vital for Evangeline to have this opportunity as it fosters resilience, teamwork and a sense of belonging, while showing her that she can pursue her passions unapologetically.”
Evangeline tells The Moodie Davitt Report: “Wildcats is important to me because I love learning how to play football for real with other girls who are fun and help me, not rough like boys can be, it keeps me fit while making me happy – especially since it’s the special place where I get to play and share it with my dad.”
Head of Digital Delivery Declan Moodie, who recently welcomed his daughter Flora into the world, is celebrating International Women’s Day by teaching his daughter all about the day’s core values.
He says, “For International Women’s Day I’m beginning to teach my daughter the values of feminism and making sure that she grows up knowing all the possibilities open to her.
“I want to help teach her that she can accomplish anything and emphasise all those who have gone before her that have gone on to achieve great things.
“So for this International Women’s Day, I’m not making a commitment just for one day, but a commitment for life to raise her with the right values and encourage the idea that she can be anything she wants to be.”
The Moodie Davitt Report’s participation in International Women’s Day 2025 goes beyond words – it is a demonstration of tangible action. From attending industry events focused on overcoming barriers for women in the workplace to supporting grassroots charities that uplift marginalised women, our team has embraced this year’s Accelerate Action theme with purpose.
As we reflect on the insights, experiences and commitments shared by our colleagues, one thing is clear – progress happens when action meets intent. By continuing to amplify diverse voices, support impactful causes and challenge the status quo, we reaffirm our dedication to making workplaces, industries and communities more equitable for all.
In celebration of The Moodie Davitt Report wāhineIt’s International Women’s Day and The Moodie Davitt Report’s own redoubtable team of women have been simply supercharged these past few days in their efforts to underline the occasion’s importance. A glance at our home page tells you how passionately and well they have embraced that task. The page is splendidly awash with stories by women about women. Each has committed to participating in and/or supporting a women-related event or cause, for example by donating to charity organisations, supporting IWD events and participating in local community gatherings that champion gender equality. Just as importantly, the Moodie Davitt women have been pushing each and every male member of the team to do likewise. More on The Moodie Blog.
|
