Celebrating Achievements on International Women’s Day
“It’s a fantastic job for women my age,” said June Robertson, reflecting on her journey as a bus driver that began in 1987 and resumed in 2024 with Lothian Buses. Her words resonate with many women who have paved their paths in traditionally male-dominated industries. Robertson’s experience underscores the evolution of the bus industry, which has become increasingly inclusive over the decades.
On March 8, 2026, the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) announced the winners of the International Women’s Day Recognition Awards, honoring women who have made significant contributions to their fields. Lucha Villar Galvez expressed her gratitude, stating, “I’m honoured to receive the 2026 IPC International Women’s Day Recognition award.” Her leadership has been pivotal in promoting women’s roles within the IPC, showcasing the impact of female leaders in sports.
Another notable recipient, Shakhnoza Mirziyoyeva, was recognized for her Emerging Leadership. She stated, “I am proud to be part of a movement where sport creates real opportunities and drives meaningful progress.” Mirziyoyeva’s acknowledgment highlights the importance of fostering new talent and perspectives in sports, particularly for women.
World Para Ice Hockey was also recognized as an IPC Member for its efforts in promoting equality and inclusion of women in sport. This recognition reflects a broader commitment within the sports community to ensure that women are given equal opportunities to participate and excel.
In addition to these awards, Rangers Football Club supported the #GiveToGain campaign for International Women’s Day 2026. This initiative encourages the support and upliftment of women through resources, opportunities, and advocacy. The campaign aims to create a more equitable environment for women in sports and beyond.
Four academy players at Rangers took on key roles during a matchday, demonstrating leadership and inspiring ambition among their peers. Their involvement serves as a powerful reminder of the potential that exists when young women are empowered to take on significant roles in their communities.
As June Robertson noted, “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 reflects a growing movement towards visibility and representation in various sectors, encouraging more women to pursue careers that were once considered out of reach.
International Women’s Day 2026 not only celebrated the achievements of women like Robertson, Villar Galvez, and Mirziyoyeva but also set the stage for ongoing discussions about equality and inclusion in all areas of society. The recognition of these individuals and organizations marks a significant step forward in the journey toward gender equality, with expectations for continued progress in the years to come.