Celebrating Women’s Achievements
“It’s a fantastic job for women my age,” said June Robertson, reflecting on her journey as a bus driver that began in 1987. Robertson, who returned to the profession in 2024 as a Lothian driver, highlights the evolution of the bus industry for women over the decades. Her statement resonates deeply on International Women’s Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the achievements of women across various sectors.
On March 8, 2026, the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) announced the winners of the International Women’s Day Recognition Awards, celebrating outstanding contributions by women in sports and leadership. Among the honorees was Lucha Villar Galvez, who won the Leadership category. Villar Galvez expressed her gratitude, stating, “I’m honoured to receive the 2026 IPC International Women’s Day Recognition award,” underscoring the significance of recognition in empowering women.
Shakhnoza Mirziyoyeva also received accolades, winning the Emerging Leadership category. She remarked, “I am proud to be part of a movement where sport creates real opportunities and drives meaningful progress.” Her words reflect the growing recognition of women’s roles in sports, a field that has historically been male-dominated.
In addition to individual achievements, organizations are also stepping up to support women’s advancement. World Para Ice Hockey was awarded the IPC Member category for its efforts in promoting inclusivity and opportunities for women in sports. This recognition highlights the importance of institutional support in fostering gender equality.
Rangers Football Club joined the celebration by supporting the #GiveToGain campaign for International Women’s Day 2026. This initiative encourages contributions towards women’s advancement through donations and mentoring, showcasing how sports organizations can play a pivotal role in societal change.
On matchday, four academy players from Rangers Football Club took on key roles, further emphasizing the club’s commitment to celebrating women’s contributions in sports. Their participation serves as an inspiration for young girls aspiring to enter the world of sports, reinforcing the message that women can excel in all fields.
As the day unfolded, the collective efforts of individuals and organizations highlighted the progress made towards gender equality while acknowledging the work that still lies ahead. The visibility of women in traditionally male-dominated fields, such as transport and sports, is crucial for encouraging future generations.
With events like International Women’s Day, the conversation around women’s rights and achievements continues to gain momentum. As June Robertson aptly stated, “The more women drivers we have, the more visible we’ll be and hopefully that’ll result in more women joining us themselves.” This sentiment encapsulates the essence of the day: celebrating achievements while inspiring future progress.
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