I am sitting with a group of young adults at a large table. In front of us, raclette grills are sizzling, and the aroma of melted cheese still lingers in the air. After dinner, we’ve moved on to the next round: game night. The current game? “Who am I?”—the one where you place a card on your forehead. A young man holds up a card with two simple words: Women’s Rights.

“March 8th!” almost everyone shouts at the same time. Later, the word “Equality” comes up, and once again, everyone responds with “March 8th.” For me, this moment shows that International Women’s Day is more than just a date on the calendar. But why is this day particularly relevant for young women today? And what does it mean for our future? Let’s take a closer look—including perspectives from South Africa and Rwanda.

Scrolling through Instagram, TikTok, or Twitter on March 8th, you see posts everywhere about International Women’s Day. Flower emojis, motivational quotes, and slogans like “Girl Power!” or “Support Women!” flood your timeline. But let’s be honest: by March 9th, most people have moved on to other topics. Does this day even make a difference? Or is it just a symbolic holiday that companies use to sell pink-themed promotions? And most importantly: What can YOU do to ensure women’s rights are more than just a one-day trend? Here are real answers—and tips on how to turn March 8th into your own Action Day!

Why is March 8th highly relevant for young women?

Whether at work, in school, or in everyday life—equality is still not a given for many young women. While some believe that we have already achieved everything, reality and studies paint a different picture: Women still earn less on average than men, are underrepresented in leadership positions, and frequently face stereotypes. Issues like bodily autonomy, personal safety, and access to education affect girls and young women worldwide.

Especially our generation—Gen Z and young Millennials—stand up for social justice. We have grown up in a world where many women before us fought for our rights, and we understand what equality can mean: A female chancellor? Yes, of course! A female carpenter? Absolutely! March 8th is an important occasion to raise awareness, highlight inequalities, and fight together for a fairer future. We know we are far from the finish line. That’s why this day is a key moment to name injustices and take action together.

5 Reasons Why We Need Equality

In Germany, we often struggle to understand the significance of certain issues in other countries. That’s why I am listing five reasons that are relatable and relevant for us as well:

1. 💬 Catcalling and Unwanted Comments: A simple walk or commute can turn stressful when men make unsolicited remarks or whistle at women.
2. 👩‍💻 “You Seem Unfriendly”— The Balance Between Assertiveness and Niceness: Women are often labeled as “bossy” when they speak up, while men are seen as “confident.”
3. 🏠 Unpaid and Unrecognized Care Work: On top of jobs or studies, women are often expected to take care of household chores, childcare, or family responsibilities.
4. ❤️ Relationship Dynamics & Mental Load: Many women take on emotional labor in relationships—remembering birthdays, planning vacations, and resolving conflicts.
5. 👗 Dress Code Pressure: Too sexy? Too modest? Women are frequently told how they “should” dress to be “taken seriously” or “respected.”

Women’s Rights Worldwide: A Look at South Africa and Rwanda

In South Africa, many women continue to fight against gender-based violence, which remains a major issue. At the same time, powerful movements advocate for equality and the protection of women. Our partner organization, Ons Plek, shows us that girls and young women urgently need safe spaces.

Rwanda, on the other hand, is considered a leader in women’s rights. With one of the highest percentages of women in parliament worldwide, the country demonstrates that equality is not just possible but politically achievable. However, despite these successes, many women still face challenges such as access to education and financial independence. Initiatives that provide opportunities for girls and young women are crucial for a fairer future. Looking at our Goat Project on-site, we see young women striving to build their own income. We asked Adeline, a scholarship recipient from our Goat Project, what she thinks about International Women’s Day:

Adeline’s Perspective

“My name is Adeline UWITONZE. I am 18 years old and a student at Groupe Scolaire Marie Reine Congo-Nil. I would like to share something about International Women’s Day. I believe it is a day to celebrate the value of girls and women, as well as what a woman can be and achieve.

In the past, women were expected to stay at home, raise children, and take care of the household—only that! But today, women are actively participating in all aspects of life in our society. It’s amazing! They can do it! Yes, we can! We celebrate our place and our contribution to uplifting our country and our families. Nowadays, women are no longer excluded from activities that were once reserved only for men—economics, trade, commerce, politics, engineering, construction, electronics, and even sports! Let us fight for our rights and dignity! But let us also celebrate our opportunities, our recognition, and our responsibilities. Our future, our better lives, belong to us. The chances are in our hands! Girls for Girls—let us stand and march together for a brighter future! Dear sisters, have a wonderful day!”

Make March 8th Your Action Day!

Sure, you can post a photo with an inspiring quote. But if you really want to make an impact, you need action! Here are five things you can do on International Women’s Day (and every other day):

1️⃣ Support Women in Your Community – Share the work of female artists, authors, entrepreneurs, or organizations that support women. Like, comment, and promote their projects!

2️⃣ Speak Up About Injustices – Whether it’s pay gaps, sexism, or stereotypes: Speak your mind! Discuss with friends or bring up the topic in school/university.

3️⃣ Educate Yourself – Learn about women’s rights worldwide. Which countries are leading the way, and what can we learn from them? Where are the biggest challenges, and what solutions already exist? Knowledge is power!

4️⃣ Advocate for Others – Support projects that empower girls and women, whether through donations or volunteering.

5️⃣ Live Equality in Your Daily Life – Whether in relationships, at work, or within your family: Demand respect and fairness for yourself and others.

If you’re active on social media, post on March 8th (or any other day!) what you’re doing—using the hashtag #GirlsForGirls. Taking a walk? Click! Playing sports? Click! Show the world how women support each other in everyday life. Let’s make the #GirlsForGirls movement visible every day—so powerful that no one can ignore it!

Where in your daily life can you demand more equality? Tell us in the comments!