Happy International Women's Day

Happy International Women's Day! This year's theme is #ChoosetoChallenge - an invitation to consider how we can better promote equality and celebrate women's achievements.

On this day I always reflect on the women who inspire me - and there are so many. Women across the globe are challenging established norms, fighting for a voice, inventing the technology of the future, driving businesses forward. And throughout the Coronavirus pandemic, we've seen countless women juggle family life, childcare and home schooling with full time work. I salute you all.

And so when I was asked to name the women, past and present, who are inspiring me the most today, it was not easy to choose. However, there are six women who stand out for me. Their strength, integrity and passion for their causes are mind blowing:

Jacinda Ardern's early response to the first wave of the Covid-19 pandemic in March last year set a high bar for crisis leadership, with her government clearly communicating the reasoning behind the decisive action they took - and saving lives. And this was after she had already proven herself as a champion for women's rights, challenger of climate change and fighter of racism who leads with honesty and kindness.

Greta Thunberg has raised awareness of climate change to a level never seen before. From sacrificing her own education for her cause to sailing the Atlantic Ocean in a zero-emissions yacht to taking on world leaders at the UN Climate Summit, Thunberg's dedication has been phenomenal. Lauded by millions, she has shown the world how loud a single voice can become.

Arianna Huffington, entrepreneur, mother, author and speaker, is beloved by women and men the world over for her sage advice on life and careers. She is accessible, wise - and thoroughly inspiring.

Everyone who dreams of a career in law should be inspired by Ruth Bader Ginsburg. A tireless supporter of justice, through her verdicts, and through supporting equality for women, the LGBT community and race, Bader Ginsburg has lived her life with a powerful marriage of fierce intellect and a strong moral compass.

How could the aspiring pilots among us fail to be moved by Amelia Earhart, Queen of the Air? Earhart was the first woman pilot to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean in 1928, a time when women's career choices were limited. Earhart broke down significant barriers, and inspired generations of women to follow their dreams.

Finally, Paralympian McKenzie Coan lives a reality in which broken bones are a fact of daily life. Born with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (brittle bone disease), McKenzie was once told she would never walk or speak. And yet she has since won a number of gold medals as a Paralympic swimmer. She is driven by inspiring others suffering from debilitating illnesses, and says, "There’s literally nothing stopping you – the only limitations that exist are the ones that you allow to exist."

I would love to know who is inspiring you today!