This year’s International Women’s Day 2026 theme is ‘Give To Gain’, focusing on how small acts of generosity—like sharing knowledge, time, or support—create a massive ripple effect for women everywhere.

Let’s keep showing up for each other and sharing our wins, When one of us thrives, we all do!

This year we have volunteer Coach Kristy and gymnast and young helper Izzy sharing what ‘Give to Gain’ means to them.

Kristy:

“For me, giving is about creating something — hope, confidence, connection, belief. When we give, we don’t lessen ourselves; we multiply what matters. We plant something small in someone else’s world and watch it grow.

As a woman, I’m reminded that so many of the strengths I carry today came from the women who gave to me. They gave time, guidance, courage, compassion, and sometimes simply the reassurance that I mattered. None of that cost them anything, yet it changed so much.

I give because I know what it feels like to grow up without certain things — without confidence, without reassurance, without someone saying, “You can do this.” I know how much difference one person can make when the world feels unstable. I know how a single moment of kindness can change the direction of a day… or a life.

When I step into the gym with children and young people, I remember that not everyone has been given love, support, or encouragement. And if I can offer even a fraction of what was given to me — a safe space, a sense of belonging, a bit of hope — then I know I’m doing something worthwhile.

So, on International Women’s Day, I’m celebrating the women who lifted me up, the girls still figuring out their life, and all the moments where giving helps us get to something better”

Izzy:

“For International Women’s Day and this year’s theme, “We Give to Gain,” I’ve been thinking about how much gymnastics has shaped me.

I am one of the oldest girls in the competitive squad and train alongside some amazing younger gymnasts. I also help coach some of our younger comp rec gymnasts . I give up some of my free time to support their sessions, but honestly, I get so much back from it. Seeing them finally get a skill they’ve been working on or grow in confidence is the best feeling.

Coaching has made me more patient, more confident, and more aware of the kind of role model I want to be. The younger girls in the squad push me to work harder in my own training too — they remind me why I started and how fun gymnastics can be.

I also give my trust and attention to my coach Milly and the other coaches too and in return I gain belief, care, support, help, advice and someone who will always listen.

For me, “We Give to Gain” means that when we support each other, we all become stronger. We gain confidence, friendships, and a team that feels like family.

Happy International Women’s Day to all the strong girls and women in our club — I’m so proud to be part of it”