Karine Laudort 
International Women’s Day marks the celebrations for the achievements of women around the world. All accomplishments are celebrated, whether it is social, cultural, political or economic, this day is to uplift and raise awareness of women’s equality in the society we live in today.
The theme for this year is “Gender equality today for a sustainable tomorrow” which strives for a world that is more inclusive so that as a collective, we can strive for a much brighter, ecological future.
In such detrimental times, we would like to praise all women that have had to carry their children across the borders to escape from the war present in Ukraine. The bravery and strength they have in such an unprecedented situation is so inspirational and a true reflection of the power women have. We stand in solidarity with you.
To celebrate International Women’s Day, we want to introduce to you founders and their successful woman-owned brands.
Meet the Founders
Shahini Fakhourie
Shahini Fakhourie is the brains behind the self-titled independent streetwear brand that focuses on sustainability as well as being socially aware. Founded in 2017 in Miami Florida, Shanini Fakhourie’s brand was born.
Concentrating on ecological solutions for modern streetwear, the products are produced in Brooklyn and they work alongside the factory to strive towards zero-waste, whilst also upholding their ethos and using sustainable and vegan fabrics.
The ex Tommy Hilfiger designer’s capsule collection was released in 2019 and explored inspiration from the past to revive and create something completely fresh for streetwear.
Fakhourie is amongst many other inspiring women who started their businesses from scratch.
Shery Lau- Syra J
Another inspirational female is Shery Lau, founder of Syra J, the contemporary womenswear brand. The brand focuses on creating elegant but daring apparel that captures the female spirit beautifully. At Syra J, they believe ‘fashion is art and art is expression’ and that is reflected in her wondrous collection of bold but timeless pieces that represent female empowerment.
Now we have introduced you to some inspiring female founders, here is how two companies are celebrating International Women’s Day this year.
Simply Business
Did you know, that according to Simply Business’ report, ‘a staggering 91% of female entrepreneurs say gender bias and inequality is prevalent in business, with a third (33%) describing it as ‘widespread’ or ‘severe’.‘
That is over 90% of female business owners that feel gender bias is still present within society today- This is why International Women’s Day is so important around the world.
On the other hand, Simply Business‘ study states ‘96% of female entrepreneurs would recommend starting a business to other women.‘
Simply Business saw these statistics and have decided to launch their ‘Empowering Women in Business‘ initiative to help female entrepreneurs overcome the gender bias which is still prominent within society today.
The Empowering Women in Business initiative features exclusive mentoring and a free webinar with Baroness Karren Brady CBE, which is set to help female businesswomen overcome gender bias within business.
Small business owners have up until 31st March to apply for the initiative and to win an hour-long, 1-2-1 mentoring session with Karren Brady CBE.
Click here to visit the website where you’ll be able to find more information on the initiative.
HAREM London
Harem London teamed up with award-winning artist, Nelly Ben Hayoun to empower ladies all over the world. With their interpretation of Hayoun’s signature boiler suit, the contemporary fashion brand re-created the outfit with a feminine touch to the traditional workwear.
They strive to create clothes that are versatile and this boiler suit is definitely just that. The suit is easily adaptable from running errands to visiting a fancy restaurant, reflecting the versatility we have as women.
Women can be whoever they want to be and Harem London’s new launch is shining a light on how females can be comfortable within their femininity whilst wearing whatever they please! They are continuing to #BreakTheBias and we are here for it!
How will you celebrate International Women’s Day this year? Will you shine a light on a female co-worker’s achievement or are you taking part in an IWD event?
Whatever you do, make sure to share photos on social media with the hashtag #BREAKTHEBIAS to spread awareness of this.
For more information on International Women’s Day, please head over to their website internationalwomensday.com
