Celebrating International Women's Day 2024

International Women’s Day is a global celebration to raise awareness about gender equality and advocate for women’s rights.

As a reminder of the progress made toward gender equality and the work that still needs to be done to achieve it, today on 8 March, we would like to acknowledge and honour the incredible contributions of women within our organisation and around the world.

What does the day mean to you?

We asked some of our team members what International Women’s day means to them.

“A chance to celebrate the fantastic works completed by women across the world and to continue raising awareness around gender equality.”

– Vicki Andrews, Portfolio Manager, UK

“A chance to celebrate how far we’ve come, and how far we have left to go.”

– Lily Lawton, Communications Associate, UK

“It is hard to recognize and fully appreciate just how far women have come in the workplace over the last century. Taking a moment to reflect fills me up with gratitude for all the fierce, hardworking women who have come before me.

Simultaneously, we are just getting started at building a professional environment that supports women, families, and our communities. I have been so impressed with Lightsource bp and the support, encouragement, and opportunities they provide to women.

I feel like I can bring my whole self – Mother, Professional, and Community member to work and be met with open arms and respect. Lightsource bp is setting an incredible example of how businesses can help solve some of the most complex issues facing women and society.

Whether it’s non-discriminatory hiring practices (yes this is still a problem!), healthy PTO balances, maintaining a pro-family culture, providing paid parental leave, or offering mentorship and professional development opportunities, I consistently see Lightsource bp doing their part to support women in the workplace. It makes me proud to be here.”

– Kara Titus, Community Relations Manager, U.S.

“Women need to remind themselves that we don’t need to embrace the world, we must embrace ourselves and understand that we do the best within our circumstances. It is a time to celebrate the victories, strength, resilience, and importance of women, but also to reflect on the changes that are still necessary in society for more equal treatment.”

– Michelle Mello, Managing Counsel, Brazil

“It is great to be recognized as a woman in today’s world. I have seen great efforts towards equality in the workplace. Lightsource bp is top notch when it comes to treating women fairly.”

– Misty Moyers, Senior Project Manager, U.S.

“The International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate and honour all the women who fought for equality and equity. It’s also a moment to reflect on the gender inequality and bias still faced by women and girls all around the world. We must continue working towards celebrating girls and women’s achievements, demanding equality, fighting for basic rights and freedoms, and being allies and champions of change.”

– Gloria Kayser, Global Reward & HR Operations Business Partner, Spain

“It is a day for women and men to celebrate the diversity that makes us unique and to reflect on the gender equality we all deserve.”

– Carol Torres, Head of Community Engagement, EMEA

“A day to remember the important contributions made by women in the different roles they play and reflect on how we can move forward as a society to recognize their value and respect differences.”

– Cassia Bandeira, HR & Administrative Manager, Brazil unity Engagement, EMEA

Penny Laurenson, International Women's Day

“For me, International Women’s Day is a reminder of the determination and bravery of those who’ve gone before me. 100+ years ago women were scaling metaphorical mountains so that today I can walk along rolling hills. In my professional life I have had the privilege to work with and look up to some formidable, accomplished women and I hope that I can likewise be a role model for those coming behind me. Me aro koe ki te hā o Hine-ahu-one [Maori proverb: pay heed to the power and dignity of women].”

– Penny Laurenson, Global Head of Sustainability, UK