Marie Claire champions International Women’s Day 2025 with a call to ‘march forward’

Marie Claire has marked International Women’s Day with a high-profile event in Sydney, bringing together some of Australia’s most influential women to celebrate resilience, progress and the ongoing fight for gender equality.

Held at the Alpha Grand Room in Sydney’s CBD and hosted by Are Media, the event featured human rights lawyer and barrister Jennifer Robinson, actor Asher Keddie, journalist Edwina Bartholomew, and Australian of the Year Professor Georgina Long AO, among other notable speakers.

Jennifer Robinson set the tone for the event, calling for greater protections for women who speak out.

“We need to better protect women who speak out – it’s a cultural conversation,” she said.

This year’s IWD theme, “March Forward: For All Women and Girls”, was at the heart of the gathering, with speakers and attendees sharing their experiences and perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing women today.

Marie Claire editor Georgie McCourt, who hosted the event alongside TV presenter, writer and actor Melissa Leong, reflected on the magazine’s 30-year commitment to championing women’s issues in Australia.

“For three decades, Marie Claire has fought to bring issues that impact women’s advancement to the foreground in Australia,” McCourt said. “The event on Friday was a wonderful opportunity to hear – and be inspired by – the stories of women who are driving change.”

Asher Keddie spoke about her optimism for the future of gender equality.

“The next generation is engaging in meaningful conversations about it, which gives me hope,” she said.

Meanwhile, MONA artist and creator Kirsha Kaechele highlighted the strength of female solidarity.

“It’s incredible to be a woman. Although we face challenges, we always look after each other,” she said.

The event was attended by Are Media CEO Jane Huxley, alongside key executives including director of content Sally Eagle, general manager of luxury Nicky Briger, director of people, culture and workplace Leisa Williams, director of marketing Carly Bowra, chief financial officer Marena Paul, and general counsel Veronique Maury.

Pandora was the event’s presenting sponsor, with Medik8 as a supporting sponsor.

“Pandora was honoured to partner once again with Marie Claire for their annual International Women’s Day event,” said Jess Donovan, marketing director, Pandora ANZ. “The day was a heartfelt celebration of the remarkable social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. Most importantly, the event was the perfect forum for addressing the key issues that matter most with an inspiring panel of women – something we were proud to be a part of.”