In honour of International Women’s Day 2023, we are celebrating the fantastic women behind Downtown in Business! Get to know the DIB ladies…
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I’m Sarah, PA to CEO of Downtown – some may say the ‘real’ boss of Downtown, ha ha.
I’m a Mum of 2 and am a little obsessed with live surgery / pimple popper programmes – also the Downtown First Aider so we’re all in good hands!
What does IWD mean to you?
Personally, IWD is a day to just stop that treadmill us ladies always seem to be on, slow things down and take a moment to appreciate just how wonderful we all are and our individual and collective achievements.
This year’s theme is ‘Embrace Equality’. What does that mean to you?
This means a lot to me and I could go on for ages but in a nutshell; ‘respect peoples differences, opinions and feelings, don’t judge, be kind and supportive’.
Which women inspire you most?
I take inspiration from many women and am very lucky to have amazing females in my life, each of whom teach me something different and support me in any way I need.
Why do we need more women in leadership?
Women do bring qualities to the table that men don’t, they can be equally capable of running a home, a business, a country – and yet we are still a minority in some of these areas. It’s up to our generation of women to show the next generation what we, and they, are capable of and can achieve.
Any other comments…
One of my favourite songs and perfect for IWD; Who Run The World (Girls).
Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn.
A bit about yourself.
I’m Beth, I’m the Membership Engagement Executive at Downtown in Business. Cockapoo & Eurovision lover (if anyone has any spare tickets to the grand final – hit me up).
What does IWD mean to you?
International Women’s Day is a day to celebrate women around the world. Whether you are a CEO, SAHM (stay at home mum) or like me, a dog mum – today is a day to reflect on your achievements and give yourself a pat on the back. No matter what day-to-day life throws at you, don’t forget to recognise your accomplishments. You’re doing great!
This year’s theme is ‘Embrace Equality’, what does that mean to you?
I think embracing equality for the majority of us sounds easy however, it’s about having an understanding that discrimination exists and whilst it may not affect us personally, we need to work harder to be a part of the movement towards a world that is more inclusive.
Which women inspire you most?
I’m lucky in my role to be surrounded by so many female leaders, some of them being DIB members. I work with 3 amazing female colleagues – Downtown is lucky to have you all (and probably wouldn’t exist without you)
I’m also extremely grateful to have grown up surrounded by women who encouraged me and supported me in all of my endeavours. Family members, friends, teachers and colleagues (past and present) – I appreciate you all so much, thank you.
Any other comments or quotes.
“You’re doing amazing, sweetie.” – Kris Jenner, the worlds Momager.
Connect with Beth on LinkedIn.
A bit about yourself.
I’m Meg, I’m the Event Manager at Downtown. Lover of mint choc chip ice cream and my all-time fave book is Daisy Jones & The Six.
What does IWD mean to you?
International Women’s Day is a day to celebrate the social, political, and economic achievements of women around the world. While also focusing global attention on areas requiring further action.
This year’s theme is ‘Embrace Equality’, what does that mean to you?
It means we all need to challenge gender stereotypes, call out discrimination and ensure everybody is included. Everyone everywhere can play a part, that’s why IWD activity is so valid. Valuing and supporting difference.
Which women inspire you most?
My nan, my mum, my aunties, my sisters, my nieces, and my friends. I’m so lucky to be surrounded by such strong women every single day.
Also, shout out to the girls you meet on a night out in the toilets that put the world to rights. You’re the best!
Any other comments or quotes.
I believe education is where it all starts, I also plan on making more time for this myself. I’ve popped a couple of personal book recommendations below that gave me some food for thought-
‘Fix the system, not the women’ – Laura Bates
‘Women don’t owe you pretty’ Florence Given
Connect with Megan on LinkedIn.
A bit about yourself.
I’m Maria, I am the Marketing Executive at DIB, a lover of good food and (recently) yoga.
What does IWD mean to you?
IWD is an extremely important celebration of women all over the world. Not only does the day celebrate the successes of women and girls all over the world but it allows us to reflect and sparks open conversation about gender equality and women’s rights.
This year’s theme is ‘Embrace Equality’, what does that mean to you?
I interpret the theme as a way to remember that although things have progressed so much since the first IWD in the early 1900s, this progress is unbalanced throughout different communities and across different countries, so it is important to elevate the voices of women from all over the world and educate ourselves and others.
Which women inspire you most?
Personally, I have been raised by amazing women in my family who have always pushed me to do my best and overcome any self doubt. My friends also inspire me on a daily basis as it’s amazing to see the support system that women have for each other.
Any other comments or quotes.
My favourite quote is “Each time a woman stands up for herself, without knowing it possibly, without claiming it, she stands up for all women.”
Connect with Maria on LinkedIn.
Happy International Women’s Day from DIB!
Find out more about International Women’s Day 2023 here.
The latest series of the Downtown Den podcast celebrates ‘Winning Women’, listen and subscribe here.
We also celebrate our Liverpool Women in Business Awards this Friday 10th March, find out more here.
