By Logan Chamber of Commerce president Arwen McGregor
Born from the early 20th century labor movement advocating for voting rights and better working conditions, International Women’s Day was formalised by the United Nations in 1975.
As society has progressed, the day’s focus has evolved toward achieving gender parity, wage equality, ending gender-based violence, and celebrating women’s global accomplishments.
This year, we examine the state of women in business through two powerful themes: the UN’s ‘Balance the Scales’ and the International Women’s Day collective’s ‘Give to Gain’.
Women have owned and led businesses for centuries.
While European women enjoyed commercial rights up to the Middle Ages, shifting socio-economic pressures later diminished their visibility and ownership rights — a trend that only slowly began reversing in the 1870s.
Today, the call to ‘Balance the Scales’ reminds us that we must still correct systemic historical imbalances.
Despite a rich history of entrepreneurship, women still face disproportionate hurdles in accessing funding, securing executive leadership roles and achieving wage parity.
For our local economy to truly flourish, we must actively dismantle these barriers to ensure equitable opportunities.
Furthermore, the ‘Give to Gain’ theme underscores the immense societal benefit of investing in women-led enterprises.
Supporting women in business does more than empower individuals; it strengthens families, diversifies supply chains and builds resilient communities.
The gain extends far beyond the immediate investment, driving innovation, job creation and broader economic participation.
This spirit of mutual support is also visible when women volunteer their time to mentor and champion one another, fostering collective growth and influence.
Celebrating IWD means committing to a future where these dual gains of a balanced playing field and a stronger society are the everyday reality for every woman in business
