International Women’s Day (IWD) on March 8 was created to celebrate the achievements of women as well as raise awareness of issues affecting women, such as gender equality, equal pay, reproductive rights, and violence and abuse against women.
We have other days in the year dedicated to honouring the women in our lives, like Mother’s Day, for example, but IWD is a special day on which to show appreciation for everything these women have given and done for us and to remind them of how much they mean to us.
Here are a few creative and unique ways to make this whole month extra special for all your favourite females.
Wife or girlfriend: Offer to look after the kids for part of the day so that your significant other can have a few hours to herself, to do whatever she wants without having to think about her responsibilities at home. If she does the lion’s share of the child-rearing, she will appreciate this gesture as it shows you understand that she deserves a break and that you see her as more than a mum. She’ll also love it if you offered to run errands for her or do the household chores without asking.
Another way to celebrate your wife or girlfriend is to treat her to a day of pampering. Book her in for a spa treatment, a hair treatment, a manicure, a massage, or anything that helps her relax and puts her in a good mood. Read this for more ideas!
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Daughter: Find out what your daughter’s ambitions and goals are and help her come up with a plan to achieve them. Show your support by giving her advice if she asks for it and listening to her without judgement. Help her learn about the field or career she’s interested in and empower her to follow her dreams.
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Mum: A handwritten letter is a great way to express your admiration for your mum and to let her know that you appreciate everything she’s done and sacrificed for the family. Your letter needn’t be long but it should be from the heart. You can also include inspiring poems or quotes from her favourite female role models or celebrities, or attach photos of her from her younger days along with a list of her accomplishments over the years, so that she can see how far she’s come.
Grandma: Sadly, many of us don’t get to spend enough time with our grandparents, and many of our seniors sometimes feel neglected or forgotten. A great way to celebrate Grandma on this special day is to just have a long and meaningful conversation with her. Ask her what it was like growing up as a woman in Singapore, find out about her achievements from her school days, and discuss any dreams she may still have. She will enjoy reminiscing about old times and appreciate having someone to share her stories with.
Aunt, neighbour or colleague: A thoughtful gift, such as an autobiography of a well-known and inspiring female change-maker, or a scarf or pair of earrings by a local female designer, are sure to put a smile on their faces. Here are more gifts by local brands you can check out.
Sister or friend: Organise an IWD movie marathon – choose two or three films that were made or directed by women, that feature strong female lead actresses, or that were made to highlight issues affecting women. Make it a fun night in with popcorn and other snacks, and then share your thoughts about the movies with one another.
Be inspired by our round-up of resilient women in movies in The Men Don’t Get It: Movies About Strong Women. For more movies, SAFRA members enjoy special rates at Shaw Theatres as well!
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