UK organisations empowering women across the globe
2018 marked a important year for women with countless reports of sexual harassment and assault, the gender pay gap attracting a lot of attention, thousands of rallies and protests around the world, and various podcasts, TV series and books telling the stories of women.
The balance is finally beginning to shift. From increased numbers of women running for office to men in positions of power being held accountable, 2018 was a year of progress.
This shift in balance would not have been possible if it weren’t for the various organisations, companies, societies and individuals that strive to empower, educate, and support women everywhere. With that in mind, we’ve created a list of just a fraction of the inspiring organisations that are making a difference – but do remember, there are plenty more.
My Body Back
This UK-based project was established in August 2014 and aims to support women who have experienced sexual violence and help them take back control of their bodies.
Not just a support group, My Body Back provides a cervical screening clinic, a maternity clinic, a database of relevant health professions, general advice, and a weekly meeting called Café V that is dedicated to encouraging women to love and care for the body.
Business & Professional Women UK
Feeling confident in the workplace and knowing your rights and entitlements in terms of salary, holidays, maternity leave, etc can make your professional life a lot more comfortable.
Although there are guides for establishing yourself as a professional working woman in everything from professional hairstyles for women to salary negotiation tactics, sometimes it’s best to have an entire network at your disposal.
The Business and Professional Women UK (BPW) provides exactly that: networking events, conferences, training sessions, awards and lobbying groups. For those with businesses or clients abroad, the BPW also has a network that extends across Europe and beyond.
HeForShe
Some of you may have already seen Emma Watson’s powerful speech for the HeForShe campaign at the United Nations in 2014. Watson is the ambassador for the gender equality campaign that recognises that the issue of gender equality is not just a women’s issue.
According to the HeForShe website, the campaign aims to motivate “people of all genders to stand in solidarity with women to create a bold, visible and united force for gender equality”. The movement has inspired gatherings and initiatives worldwide.
This Girl Can
The This Girl Can campaign celebrates active women and promotes women in sports – whether it’s walking, wrestling, hula hooping or exercising with your baby, there’s something for everyone.
The goal of the organisation is to inspire women everywhere to feel confident and motivated while remaining active – regardless of body shape or size, the time of day, your ability or your location. On their website, you’ll find inspiring stories, ways to stay active, tips and tricks, and a place for you to upload your latest story.
Talented Ladies Club
Last, but not least on this particular list is us! From campaigning for an end to maternal discrimination, to creating communities and training programmes for career and business women, we’re committed to our mission to unlock the potential of mothers.
We also support the work of charities like Microloan, who help women in Africa to start businesses to support their families.
