Friday 8 March is International Women’s Day (IWD) 2024. IWD is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women's equality. 

To help mark the day we’ll be celebrating some of the brilliant women who work across the Trust. Throughout the day, across our social media channels, we’ll feature colleagues from a wide range of backgrounds and departments, and they’ll share their thoughts on what IWD means to them, workplace challenges they may have overcome and any messages they have for women just starting in their careers. 

See below for just some of our featured colleagues: 

April Brooks, Lead Nurse, Devon Sexual Health Services 

I am happy to be a female leader, in a service responsible for supporting, empowering and enabling women to make individual and healthy choices about their sexual and reproductive health.  

It feels good to be involved in caring for women in Devon! 

Dr Elizabeth Wilkinson, Clinical Director Transformation and Consultant Ophthalmologist 

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has. 

Margaret Mead, 20th Century American Cultural Anthropologist 

Janine Rudling, People Business Partner – Community Services 

A colleague said to me last week “do not underestimate your impact” and I want to share that same message: Be wholeheartedly you, and don’t underestimate the impact you have on the women around you. 

I am proud to be a working mum of two daughters, being able to have a career and be a mum is hugely rewarding but not without challenge. I find daily inspiration and motivation in the confidence, strength and achievements of the women I work alongside as well as friends and family.  

I want young women, including my daughters, to continue to want more, and achieve their own goals. ‘She believed she could, so she did’ - Turn barriers and challenges into opportunities for change. 

Emma Sabell, Electrical Apprenice 

Finding a job you enjoy is really important, and don’t be put off if the industry you decide on is male dominated.  

Do what interests you. 

Reema Andrade, Clinical Tutor 

A message to women early in their careers:  

Always remember that the power within you is unstoppable. 

There’s no one in this universe who could stop you from achieving your dreams. 

The only person who could stop you is yourself.