Sector comes together for International Women’s Day 2026 Connect and Share

Active Sussex brought the sector together on Thursday, March 5, for a special International Women’s Day (IWD) 2026 Connect and Share event.

This collaborative webinar saw participants sign up for an hour of discussion, reflection, and shared learning.

The session created space for partners from across Sussex to explore what’s working well in their settings to engage women and girls in physical activity, while also openly discussing the challenges that still stand in the way. 

Attendees reflected on the ongoing impact of the This Girl Can campaign and explored the wide range of resources available to help break down barriers to participation.

Lively conversations and shared insights

Breakout rooms buzzed with energy as participants exchanged ideas on everything from the power of inclusive terminology to the importance of designing activities that feel welcoming, social, and confidence‑building. 

Many highlighted that the social element – connection, belonging, and fun – remains a crucial driver for women and girls getting active and staying active.

Partners highlighted the importance of relatable role models, from Horsham Sports Injury Clinic’s predominantly female workforce to the impact of female instructors in sailing. 

Brighton & Hove Albion Foundation shared how small adjustments, like avoiding “football kit” requirements, help girls feel more comfortable taking part. 

Schools also reported success with girls‑only sessions, emphasising the value of pupil voice and the quick wins that come from responding directly to what girls say they need.

Participants left the session feeling inspired, positive, connected, proactive, knowledgeable, grateful and determined – a clear reflection of the energy and collective commitment in the virtual room.

Key learnings

Attendees also shared their biggest takeaways from the session. 

Themes included the ongoing struggle to recruit women volunteers, the importance of creating safe and supportive environments, and the need to update language and messaging to better appeal to women and girls. 

Many highlighted the value of seeking advice and best practice from outside their own organisations, as well as the importance of inspiring more women, including mums and young women, to step into leadership roles. 

Collaboration emerged as a strong thread, with partners recognising that working together can maximise impact and broaden local opportunities.

Actions partners will take forward

The session closed with participants identifying one action they would take as a result of attending. 

These ranged from sharing the brilliant work already happening in their organisations and circulating the session with their wider club communities, to connecting with partners for further support. 

Others committed to exploring the follow‑up resources, sharing them across their networks, or adding new ideas around volunteer engagement into their development plans.

Sector voices

Gemma Finlay‑Gray, Strategic Relationship Manager for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at Active Sussex, said: “Our IWD ‘Connect and Share’ session was a powerful reminder that narrowing the gender activity gap in Sussex is about more than just movement – it’s about momentum. 

“By bringing partners together to navigate challenges and celebrate successes, we embraced the #GiveToGain spirit. 

“It was fantastic to see male allies join the conversation, reaffirming that our collective commitment is stronger than the barriers we face. 

“In Sussex, we aren’t just celebrating International Women’s Day; we are building a community where every woman and girl has the support to be active and thrive.”

Nick Chellel, Workforce Lead at Active Sussex, added: “It was fantastic to see such positive engagement from partners across Sussex. 

“The session created a really valuable space for people to connect, share good practice and explore collaborative solutions to support more women and girls to be active. 

“It was particularly encouraging to see male allies represented in the conversation, recognising that achieving gender equality in sport and physical activity is a shared responsibility. 

“While International Women’s Day provides an important moment to celebrate progress and reflect on the challenges that remain, our commitment must extend far beyond a single day. 

“Supporting and empowering women and girls to be active, lead and thrive should be something we champion all year round.”

Marking 115 years of International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day, celebrated annually on 8 March, is a global moment to recognise the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It also serves as a powerful call to action for accelerating gender equality.

This year marks an extraordinary milestone – 115 years of collective action and progress. 

The 2026 theme, Give To Gain, encourages communities to celebrate women’s achievements, raise awareness of inequality, mobilise for change, fundraise, and stand in solidarity.

Join the movement

If you’re passionate about reducing barriers for women and girls to be active, we’d love you to be part of the This Girl Can Sussex Network. 

The network is open to everyone – not just women – and offers a supportive space to share ideas, access resources, and stay connected with sector developments.

You can also sign up for our newsletters for regular inspiration, practical tools, and the latest industry updates.