International Women's Day: How Remote Work is Changing the Game for Women
“Gender equality is not just a women’s issue, it is a human issue.” – Emma Watson
Yet, in 2024, the gender pay gap still exists. Women are still disproportionately carrying the burden of unpaid labor. And despite the rise of remote work, the same old challenges persist—just wrapped in a new, work-from-home-friendly package.
But here’s the thing: Remote work is a game-changer. For many women, it’s not just about flexibility; it’s about freedom. It’s about financial independence. It’s about finally breaking through barriers that the traditional 9-to-5 office grind refused to budge.
And that’s exactly why International Women’s Day matters more than ever. When we talk about women in the workplace, we need to talk about remote work. It’s a revolution in progress, but only if we make it work for women, not against them.
So, let’s dive in. How is remote work empowering women? What challenges still exist? And—most importantly—how can we ensure that women aren’t just surviving in the remote workforce but thriving?
Remote work isn't just about working in your PJs...
Whilst working in your PJs is a great advantage to working from home, there are so many more long-term benefits to working remotely. With International Women's Day yesterday, there were some very insightful articles about women in the workplace in 2022. I read this one and got inspired.
"Research suggests that pregnant women tend to be seen as less competent, more needing of accommodation, and less committed to work"
Despite it being illegal (and highly immoral), pregnant women (and mothers) often get overlooked for raises and promotions, or even worse, they get pushed out of their jobs altogether.
Remote work has given some women the opportunity not to announce/mention their pregnancy at all if they CHOOSE not to.
Not only does this mean the avoidance of awkward conversations, belly rubs and inappropriate/ invasive questions, but it means these women aren't treated any differently just because they're pregnant.
On International Women's Day, let's honour the importance of choice and push back on companies demanding a return to the office when the job can be done remotely just as well and arguably better!
More About International Women’s Day
It’s that one special day every year, March 8th, when we celebrate all things women. It’s about us, our journeys, our strength, our laughs, our dreams, and everything that makes us who we are. It’s like a big group hug across the globe, where we’re reminded of how far we’ve come and are still going together. Because let’s be real: Amazing things happen when women support each other.
This day isn’t just about acknowledging the struggles (though, yes, we’ve got plenty to tackle still). It’s about celebrating the women who inspire us—our moms, sisters, best friends, mentors, and even the bold women in history who dared to dream big and take risks. It’s a reminder to look around and see the strength in ourselves and each other. So, whether you’re a trailblazer in your field, a mom juggling a million things at once, a student pushing boundaries, or someone on a self-love journey, remember: you are a force!
This year, let’s make it personal. Take a moment to recognize your milestones, big or small. Maybe it’s speaking up at work, hitting a personal goal, or just being there for someone who needs you. And don’t forget to share the love—tell the incredible women in your life what they mean to you. Send that empowering text, grab coffee with your girls, or just post something that makes you feel proud to be a woman. Because when we lift each other up, there’s no limit to what we can achieve.
Here’s to us—today and every day!
History and Origins of International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day actually has its roots in the early 1900s, a time when women around the world were fighting hard for basic rights and equality. The first organized observance dates back to 1908 in New York City, where about 15,000 women marched through the streets, demanding shorter hours, better pay, and the right to vote. This powerful demonstration caught international attention, and soon, women from other countries started standing up and calling for the same rights. In 1910, at a women’s conference in Copenhagen, it was decided that there should be an annual day dedicated to women’s rights—and that’s how International Women’s Day was born. The first official celebration was held in 1911 in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland.
Through the years, this day has continued to grow and evolve, reflecting the changes in women’s rights and the challenges we face globally. From the right to vote to workplace equality to reproductive rights, every decade has brought new milestones, struggles, and victories for women. It wasn’t until 1977, though, that the United Nations officially recognized International Women’s Day, giving it global significance and making it an annual reminder of both how far we’ve come and the work still left to do. Now, it’s celebrated in countries all around the world, a day for honouring achievements, pushing for progress, and acknowledging the incredible impact women have on society.
Today, International Women’s Day is as much about celebrating women as it is about driving change. We use it to highlight issues like gender equality, pay equity, and violence against women, bringing these conversations to the forefront. It’s a chance for us all to look at what’s been accomplished and inspire each other to keep pushing forward. And it’s not just for women—everyone is encouraged to join in because achieving equality and respect is something that makes the world better for everyone. It’s a beautiful reminder that together, we’re unstoppable!
Significance of International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day (IWD), celebrated annually on March 8th, is a global movement recognizing the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It serves as both a celebration and a call to action, advocating for gender equality and women’s rights worldwide.
The origins of IWD trace back to the early 1900s, when women began demanding better working conditions, fair wages, and voting rights. Over the years, it has evolved into a powerful movement, with organizations, governments, and individuals coming together to promote inclusivity and progress.
Each year, IWD is marked by a specific theme that highlights pressing issues faced by women. From advocating for equal pay to breaking stereotypes in male-dominated industries, the day serves as a reminder of how far we’ve come and how much work still remains.
Impact of Remote Work on Women’s Careers
The rise of remote work has transformed the professional landscape for women, offering increased flexibility and opportunities. For many women, especially those juggling family responsibilities, the ability to work remotely means greater career longevity, financial independence, and work-life balance.
Before the widespread adoption of remote work, many women faced difficult choices between career progression and family obligations. However, with remote work, women can now:
✔ Eliminate long commutes, freeing up time for professional development and personal well-being.
✔ Access global job opportunities without relocating, breaking geographical barriers in male-dominated fields.
✔ Reduce exposure to workplace biases and microaggressions that often hinder career growth.
As more companies embrace hybrid and fully remote models, women are finding themselves in leadership roles and entrepreneurial ventures that were once out of reach. The key now is ensuring these opportunities continue to grow and remain inclusive for all women.
Challenges and Solutions in Remote Work for Women
While remote work presents incredible benefits, it also comes with unique challenges that disproportionately affect women. From unpaid caregiving responsibilities to lack of workplace visibility, women face hurdles that need addressing.
Common Challenges:
💡 Work-Life Boundaries – The blurred lines between work and personal life can lead to burnout.
💡 Limited Career Advancement – Without face-to-face interactions, women may struggle to receive promotions.
💡 Unequal Distribution of Household Responsibilities – Many women still carry the burden of unpaid domestic labor.
Solutions:
✅ Set Clear Boundaries – Create a designated workspace and establish firm working hours.
✅ Communicate Career Goals – Actively engage in virtual meetings and express interest in leadership roles.
✅ Share the Load – If possible, discuss workload balance with family members or explore support systems like childcare options.
By addressing these challenges head-on, women can maximize the benefits of remote work while advancing their careers on their own terms.
Actionable Tips for Women Embracing Remote Work
If you’re considering a remote career or looking to optimize your current remote work experience, here are some practical strategies:
📍 Invest in a Comfortable Workspace – A good desk, ergonomic chair, and strong Wi-Fi can boost productivity.
📍 Use Time-Blocking Techniques – Structure your day to separate work from personal life effectively.
📍 Network and Upskill – Engage in online communities and take courses to stay competitive.
📍 Advocate for Yourself – Speak up about promotions, salary increases, and career growth opportunities.
By implementing these tips, women can take full advantage of the remote work revolution and shape their professional journeys on their own terms.
Conclusion
The future of work is flexible. It’s digital. It’s borderless. For women, it could be the key to true economic independence.
But, flexibility alone isn’t enough. We need better policies. We need companies to step up and offer equal pay, fair promotions, and actual career progression for remote employees. We need to address the hidden biases that still creep into virtual workplaces.
Most importantly? We need women to take charge of their remote careers. Set boundaries. Speak up in meetings. Ask for that raise. Claim space in an environment that, historically, wasn’t built for them—but can absolutely be reclaimed.
So here’s the challenge: How will you make remote work work for you? Whether you’re an employee, a manager, or a business owner, there’s a role to play in shaping a more equitable workforce.
Let’s not wait for change. Let’s make it happen.
FAQs
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International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global celebration of women’s achievements and a call for gender equality. It’s observed annually on March 8 with events, discussions, and advocacy for women’s rights.
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A great message for IWD is one that celebrates women’s strength, achievements, and contributions while advocating for equality. Example: “Here’s to strong women—past, present, and future. Let’s keep pushing for a world where gender doesn’t determine opportunity.”
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IWD is celebrated on March 8 because it marks the date of women’s protests in 1908 and 1917, demanding better working conditions and voting rights. The date was later recognized by socialist movements and, eventually, the United Nations in 1977.
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It matters because gender inequality still exists. From the wage gap to leadership representation, IWD highlights progress made and the work that remains. It’s a day to celebrate, reflect, and push for meaningful change.