This year’s theme, Accelerate Action, resonates deeply with us as we continue to break barriers, foster inclusivity, and empower one another. The LOOK team have shared their thoughts on what this day means to them.

Image of the LOOK team standing in two rows. Everyone is cheering with their hands outstretched in the air, they are all wearing LOOK t-shirts

Celebrating Strength, Resilience & Community at LOOK

Video of LOOK CEO Charlotte and Sydney May standing outside talking.

LOOK CEO Charlotte Chats to LOOK Mentor and New Comic of the Year Sydney May.

To mark International Women’s Day, our CEO Charlotte and LOOK Mentor & comedian Sydney May have come together to share what this day means to them.

A Reflection on Being a Woman in 2025

By Ruth Storey, Mentor Project Manager

Working in an all-female team that nurtures, empowers, and celebrates one another is an incredible place to be. We listen, we support, and we respect each other. Yet, I am deeply aware that not all women have this privilege, even in 2025.

Not all women are safe in their homes, with their families, or in their schools. Not all women feel safe to go for a run when they want, to wear what they want, or to speak their minds.

How do I feel to be a woman in 2025? I feel grateful to the generations before me who fought for the rights and opportunities I now have. Their courage has paved the way for progress. But I also know there is still so much work to be done—for equity, safety, respect, and opportunity for all women and girls worldwide.

Today, we celebrate. But tomorrow, we continue the fight.

Image of LOOK team Maria and Andrea sitting at a table chatting and smiling
Image of LOOK team Ruth and Megan sitting on red armchairs, both a laughing, Megan has a hot drink in her hand

The Women of LOOK

By Nicola Cocum, Office Manager

At LOOK, we lift, we cheer, we try,
We show up strong, we aim high.
A team of women, fierce and true,
Supporting each other in all that we do.

We stand with children, light the way,
Helping them grow every day.
With mentors who’ve been there too,
Showing what’s possible, breaking through.

Visually impaired, bold and wise,
Sharing stories, opening eyes.
Guiding young people to believe,
That with the right support, they can achieve.

And behind it all, a team so bright,
Women who work with passion and might.
Staff who listen, care, and guide,
Standing always by their side.

We learn we laugh, we sometimes fall,
But we keep going, through it all.
With kindness, courage, and lots of care,
We’re here for people—always there.

Video of Mentor Project Officer Maria, wearing a black jumper and talking to the camera.

LOOK Mentor Project Officer Maria Dowswell Shares Her Perspective.

Another incredible voice from our team, Maria also reflects on the importance of International Women’s Day. She reminds us to celebrate each other and support one another. Take time today to be proud of what you have achieved.

International Women’s Day, A Message to Our London Marathon Runners

By Jo Lomas, Project Assistant

April 27th will be an incredible day, filled with emotion and pride as we cheer on the amazing marathon runners supporting our charity! Seeing their dedication and determination as they take on the streets of London, raising crucial funds for our small but mighty charity, is truly inspiring. I’ve been fortunate to be a small part of their journey, offering support, encouragement, and a whole lot of girl power along the way.

And today, as we celebrate International Women’s Day, I feel incredibly privileged to work alongside such phenomenal women. They embody everything this day represents: resilience, perseverance, and the power to create real change. From the runners pushing their limits to the volunteers working tirelessly behind the scenes, the women in our charity are a force to be reckoned with.

I recognise and appreciate the unique contributions each woman in our team brings to LOOK. Together, we celebrate our successes in supporting children and young people with visual impairments and creating a more inclusive world.

So today, I raise a virtual glass to all the incredible women out there. To our marathon runners—thank you for your dedication. To my colleagues at LOOK—your passion is invaluable. And to every woman striving to make her mark on the world—keep shining bright.

LOOK team Nicola and Charlotte sitting on a sofa laughing Nicola has her head thrown back in laughter and Charlotte has a big smile on her face.
Image of LOOK team Ruth and Elin sitting on the floor talking to each other, in between them is Elin's guide dog Lucy

On this International Women’s Day, we’re taking a moment to celebrate, reflect, and appreciate the amazing women around us. At LOOK, we’ll keep cheering each other on, breaking down barriers, and working to provide visually impaired young people with the support they need to shine. Here’s to all the incredible women—today and every day!