Reaseheath College and University Centre is celebrating International Women’s Day 2026 with a week of activity focused on empowerment, generosity and community, under this year’s theme, Give to Gain.
Although International Women’s Day falls on Sunday, March 8th, activity across campus will take place throughout the following week, bringing staff and students together to champion and support women across the college community.
Central to the celebrations is a pledge campaign encouraging women to give something meaningful to a colleague or student, whether that’s mentoring, sharing a skill, offering career advice, or simply giving time and encouragement. These pledges will be collected and shared across the organisation, helping to build lasting connections and practical support networks.
Staff and students will also be invited to wear purple, the internationally recognised colour of International Women’s Day, as a visible show of solidarity across campus. Reaseheath’s catering team will also be baking purple-themed traybakes to raise money for a local women’s charity, reinforcing the college’s commitment to supporting women both on campus and in the wider community.
Alongside the fundraising activity, female students will also have the chance to take part in a self-defence session organised by Student Services. The session aims to give students practical skills while promoting confidence, independence and personal safety.
Vanessa Rhodes, Director of People and Culture at Reaseheath, said: “International Women’s Day is about more than celebration, it’s about action. The theme Give to Gain really resonates with us because when women share their skills, time and experience, everyone benefits.”
The week of activity reflects Reaseheath’s ongoing commitment to creating an inclusive, supportive environment where women are empowered to thrive in education, employment and leadership.
Vanessa added: “Whether it’s mentoring a colleague, encouraging a student or opening up a new opportunity, those small acts of support can have a lasting impact. At Reaseheath, we’re proud to create a culture where women lift each other up, and where giving truly leads to growth.”
