Our Journal
#IWD22 – In celebration and support of women near & far
International Women’s Day is here and for our annual series around the theme of celebrating inspirational women, this year we’re excited to be featuring conversations, thoughts & views from some of those within our industry whom we’re not only privileged enough to work alongside, but who truly inspire us!
However, in light of current events we felt compelled to kick off by highlighting stories of some of the brave and courageous women affected by the conflict, or those inspired to do amazing things to support the ongoing situation in Ukraine.
Our 2022 series opens with the thoughts of Partner Hannah Read
When Anne-Marie and I started thinking about this year’s International Women’s Day, what it means to both of us personally, as a business and how best we should contribute, we concluded that this would be the perfect opportunity to celebrate the many inspirational women within the property industry, who we’re fortunate enough to work alongside. So we’ve taken the time to sit, talk and listen to their thoughts and feelings about IWD and what it means to them.
Over the next few days, we plan to share these conversations, views and opinions, but the past fortnight has seen global events take an unexpected turn, making the world seem a very different place. We felt compelled to include this by highlighting some of the positive actions that have shone through, and some of the amazing people pulling together to offer their help.
As International Women’s Day ‘22 kicks off, we wanted more than anything to acknowledge and celebrate the strong & courageous women living through the turmoil of this horrific situation, whether in Ukraine, or here in the UK coordinating aid and raising awareness.
- To the women that have left everything behind including their husbands & homes in order to travel and find safety with their children.
- To the women in neighbouring countries who have welcomed Ukrainian families into their homes with open arms and without question – a photo was shared of a line of buggies that women in Poland had left on a station platform ready for families arriving by train – such a thoughtful act of kindness.
- To the women care workers helping transport sick children to safety in order for them to continue with essential treatment.
- To the women that have stayed in their country to help protect it.
- To the women in Russia, brave enough to stand up and protest.
- To the women in the UK and around the world, raising both awareness and funds to help.
One woman in particular who’s stood out for me is Olia Hercules (oliahercules.com) @oliahercules – A Ukrainian chef, writer, food stylist & activist living in London, with her parents and brother still in Ukraine.
I’ve been glued to her social channels for news and updates, truly inspired by her strength and courage – she’s co-launched #cookforukraine to raise money for @Unicef in support of the refugee crisis, raised funds to assist with the supply of safety equipment to the volunteers having to fight in Ukraine, and is now campaigning to help change the lengthy, complicated UK visa system for refugees. Olia has written several beautiful books #mamushka #kaukasis #SummerKitchens (waterstones.com/oliahercules) filled with wonderful recipes and stunning photography of the Ukrainian countryside.
It feels that now, more than ever, solidarity is essential to give strength and support to everyone caught up in this heartbreaking catastrophe – so today on IWD our love and thoughts are with you all #standwithukraine