International Women’s Day | PlanetSpark Public Speaking

Every year on March 8th, people across the globe come together to celebrate International Women’s Day, a day dedicated to honouring women for their remarkable contributions, achievements, and resilience. From fighting for equal rights to excelling in leadership, science, art, politics, and entrepreneurship, women have shaped societies and continue to inspire progress worldwide. This day reminds us to recognize not only the milestones women have achieved but also the challenges they still face in their pursuit of equality, dignity, and recognition.

At PlanetSpark, we believe that confidence and communication are the keys to empowerment. That is why our Public Speaking Courses are designed to nurture the voices of tomorrow. With personalized mentorship, AI-enabled tools, and creative learning experiences, children develop fluency, stage presence, and the courage to express themselves with clarity and confidence. Just as International Women’s Day amplifies women’s voices, PlanetSpark amplifies the voices of young learners, ensuring they grow into self-assured communicators and future leaders.

The History and Origin of International Women’s Day

The story of International Women’s Day (IWD) goes back over a century and is deeply rooted in the struggle for gender equality, labour rights, and women’s empowerment. Its history is a powerful reminder of how collective action can bring about lasting change.

Early Beginnings in the 1900s

The origins of International Women’s Day can be traced to the early 20th century, a period when industrialization was rapidly changing societies but also leading to poor working conditions, low wages, and long working hours, especially for women. In this environment of inequality, women began organizing movements to demand fair treatment and recognition.

One of the earliest key events occurred in 1908, when 15,000 women in New York City marched through the streets demanding shorter working hours, better pay, and the right to vote. This protest was a landmark in women’s activism, setting the stage for future movements.

The First National Women’s Day

Following the momentum of the 1908 march, the Socialist Party of America declared the first National Women’s Day in the United States on February 28, 1909. It was observed across the country, with rallies and events aimed at highlighting women’s rights and suffrage.

The International Movement Emerges

In 1910, a significant step was taken at the Second International Socialist Women’s Conference held in Copenhagen, Denmark. Here, Clara Zetkin, a German activist and women’s rights leader, proposed the idea of an International Women’s Day. Her vision was to create a day celebrated on the same date in every country, where women could press collectively for their demands.

The proposal was unanimously accepted by over 100 women from 17 countries, marking the birth of International Women’s Day as a global movement.

The First International Women’s Day in 1911

The very first International Women’s Day was celebrated on March 19, 1911, in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland. More than one million people attended rallies to campaign for women’s rights to work, vote, receive education, hold public office, and end discrimination.

The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire

Just a week later, tragedy struck when the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in New York City claimed the lives of over 140 workers, most of whom were young immigrant women. This devastating incident underscored the urgency of fighting for safer working conditions and labour rights, strengthening the significance of IWD.

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Women’s Day and the Russian Revolution

Another pivotal moment came in 1917, during World War I, when women in Russia staged a strike for “bread and peace” on March 8 (according to the Gregorian calendar). Their protest sparked a series of events that led to the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II and the granting of women’s suffrage in Russia.

This event cemented March 8 as the permanent date for International Women’s Day.

Recognition by the United Nations

Over the decades, International Women’s Day spread across many countries, often linked with peace movements and labour rights campaigns.

In 1975, during the International Women’s Year, the United Nations officially recognized March 8 as International Women’s Day. Since then, the UN has adopted annual themes focusing on specific aspects of women’s rights, including equality, violence prevention, education, and inclusion.

International Women’s Day Today

Today, International Women’s Day is celebrated in over 100 countries. It is recognized as an official holiday in several nations, including Russia, China, Afghanistan, and Cuba. The day is marked by marches, awareness campaigns, cultural programs, and global initiatives dedicated to creating a more inclusive and equal world.

It is both a celebration of women’s achievements and a call to action to accelerate gender parity across the globe.

Why Is International Women’s Day Celebrated?

International Women’s Day is more than a symbolic occasion. It is a global reminder of the struggles, triumphs, and resilience of women everywhere. It recognizes the diverse roles that women play and their continuous fight for peace, justice, equality, and progress. The day stands as a unifying moment when women from different cultures, ethnicities, and professions come together to celebrate how far society has come while acknowledging the road still ahead.

For women, this day is about self-appreciation, awareness, and empowerment. It is an encouragement to value themselves, nurture their potential, and bravely overcome the obstacles that often stand in their way. Whether balancing careers and family responsibilities or striving for leadership roles, women’s journeys are filled with challenges that deserve recognition and support.

The Realities Women Face

It is often misunderstood that women’s challenges are secondary to men’s. The truth is, women deal with equally significant struggles, often compounded by societal expectations. Many juggle between professional responsibilities and domestic roles, while homemakers who work tirelessly day and night are frequently undervalued. Their contributions, although immeasurable, are overlooked because they take place within the home.

International Women’s Day is a reminder that no woman should be ignored or dismissed. It commemorates the efforts of women who have fought for freedom, equal rights, and representation, and it calls upon all of us to continue supporting these efforts. Women’s Day celebrates not just individual achievements but also the collective spirit of women striving to transform societies across the world.

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The Purpose of International Women’s Day

At its heart, International Women’s Day aims to highlight and celebrate women’s accomplishments across every field imaginable, including arts, science, politics, education, business, and more. It honours their responsibilities and their immense contributions in shaping communities and nations. By doing so, the day challenges stereotypes and encourages a world where women are respected as equal contributors in every sphere of life.

The purpose goes beyond celebration. It pushes conversations about gender equality, equal pay, access to education, workplace rights, and representation in leadership. More importantly, it reminds us that women’s empowerment benefits everyone. A society where women thrive is one where progress, innovation, and fairness thrive, too.

How Is International Women’s Day Celebrated?

The beauty of International Women’s Day lies in its universal appeal. While governments, organizations, and communities arrange programs, individuals also celebrate them in meaningful ways. People honour women in their lives, including mothers, sisters, teachers, friends, or colleagues, through acts of gratitude, support, and encouragement. Schools and workplaces organize talks, campaigns, and creative activities to spark discussions on gender equality.

Events like awareness programs, charity drives, marches, and campaigns play an important role in drawing attention to the cause. Social media also amplifies voices by sharing inspiring stories, achievements, and challenges faced by women worldwide. Beyond activities and campaigns, one of the most impactful ways to celebrate is by supporting initiatives that work toward women’s education, healthcare, and empowerment.

PlanetSpark’s Contribution to Empowering Young Voices

International Women’s Day reminds us that empowerment begins with communication and confidence. At PlanetSpark, we believe that public speaking skills and the ability to express oneself clearly are powerful tools for personal and social transformation. Our Public Speaking Courses provide children with a platform to discover their voices, strengthen their confidence, and prepare for future opportunities.

Here’s how PlanetSpark builds strong, confident communicators:

1. 1:1 Personal Trainers for Every Child

Every student is paired with a certified communication expert who delivers fully personalized, one-on-one live classes. Trainers understand each child’s learning style and provide immediate feedback while nurturing skills like storytelling, fluency, grammar, and presentation. This personal connection ensures faster improvement and lasting mentorship.

2. Personalized Curriculum and Learning Roadmap

Each child undergoes a thorough assessment, and a tailored roadmap is designed to address specific needs, whether it is vocabulary building, grammar refinement, or public speaking mastery. The roadmap evolves as the child progresses, ensuring consistent and meaningful growth.

3. SparkX – AI-Enabled Video Analysis Tool

With SparkX, children upload their speeches or storytelling videos, which are evaluated using AI on aspects like voice clarity, grammar, posture, and confidence. Parents receive detailed performance reports, making progress measurable and transparent.

4. AI-Led Practice Sessions

Students engage in AI-led practice sessions where they simulate real-time speaking activities and receive instant feedback. This ensures consistent practice and builds fluency even outside of live sessions.

5. Spark Diary – A Digital Writing Journal

Spark Diary allows children to write daily stories, reflections, and speeches. This not only improves writing skills but also fosters creativity, consistency, and clear expression.

6. Gamified Learning Modules

Through engaging games like Antonyms Quiz, Grammar Guru Challenge, and Spell Knockout, children learn vocabulary, spelling, and grammar in fun and interactive ways. Gamification ensures they stay motivated and enjoy the learning journey.

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7. Structured Parent-Teacher Meetings

Regular PTMs allow trainers to share updates, address challenges, and collaborate with parents on future learning steps. This ensures children have a strong support system at home and in class.

8. Comprehensive Progress Reports

Parents receive detailed progress reports highlighting growth in content quality, grammar, body language, and confidence. These reports include trainer notes and targeted action plans for improvement.

9. Exclusive Learning Clubs and Communities

From Debate Club to Story Writing Club and Speech Circles, children join vibrant communities where they collaborate, perform, and learn together. These clubs foster teamwork and real-world communication skills.

10. Sparkline – Safe Content Sharing Platform

Sparkline provides a secure online space where children share speeches, writings, and performances with peers. It encourages digital confidence and helps children gain recognition in a safe environment.

11. Contests and Real-Time Recognition

PlanetSpark organizes storytelling contests, debates, open mic sessions, and creative writing challenges. These events offer children opportunities to showcase their talents and build confidence while earning recognition.

12. SparkBee

An interactive feature with quizzes and challenges that make grammar, vocabulary, and spelling practice fun and effective. SparkBee ensures children learn consistently while enjoying the process.

13. SparkShop

SparkShop provides engaging, budget-friendly eBooks covering grammar, reading, vocabulary, and writing. These digital resources make English learning accessible and enjoyable for kids everywhere.

Why PlanetSpark Aligns with the Spirit of International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day emphasizes the importance of self-expression, confidence, and equality. Similarly, PlanetSpark’s mission is to nurture children into expressive, confident, and articulate individuals. By empowering children to communicate effectively, we lay the foundation for future generations who will stand up for themselves, advocate for others, and contribute positively to society.

Just as the world celebrates women for their achievements, PlanetSpark celebrates children’s progress, creativity, and individuality. Together, both journeys share one vision: empowerment through voice and confidence.

Conclusion

While International Women’s Day is celebrated once a year, the values it represents, including respect, equality, and empowerment, should be practiced daily. Honouring women should not be limited to March 8th. It should reflect in the way we support, uplift, and respect them every day.

Similarly, building children’s confidence should not be seen as a one-time effort but as a lifelong journey. By providing them with platforms to speak, share, and shine, we prepare them to thrive in every sphere of life. Just as the world continues to strive for gender equality, PlanetSpark continues to work toward nurturing the leaders and communicators of tomorrow.

Build your child’s confidence with PlanetSpark Public Speaking Courses. Enroll today for a free trial class.