Every year on March 8, the world marks International Women’s Day, a moment to recognize the achievements, resilience, and impact of women across generations.
With this year’s theme, “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” the spotlight falls on extraordinary women—past and present—who have shaped history. From biblical heroines to modern-day pioneers, their stories of faith, courage, and determination continue to inspire.
In this feature, Nicolas Akasula explores the lives of remarkable women whose legacies have left an indelible mark on the world.
Old Testament
Jochebed: Mother of Moses
On this Women’s Day, we honor the courage and faith of women like Jochebed, the mother of Moses. At a time when Pharaoh had ordered all Hebrew baby boys to be cast into the Nile, Jochebed defied fear and held onto faith. She kept her son hidden, trusting that God had a greater plan. When she could no longer keep him safe, she placed him in a basket and set him afloat on the river—not as an act of surrender, but as an act of trust.
Her bravery seemed unthinkable, yet it led to a miraculous outcome. The Lord not only protected Moses but also returned him to her arms to nurse him. And through him, God later delivered an entire nation from slavery.
This Women’s Day, may we celebrate the strength, wisdom, and faith of women who, like Jochebed, dare to trust, act courageously, and shape history.
Ruth: Resilient widow
The story of Ruth highlights resilience and loyalty. After famine drove Naomi and her family to Moab, she lost her husband and sons, leaving her and her daughters-in-law widowed. Naomi decided to return to Judah and urged them to stay in Moab. Orpah left, but Ruth remained, declaring her devotion: “Where you go I will go… Your people will be my people and your God my God.” (Ruth 1:16).
Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi, proved fruitful in the end, seen through her marriage to Boaz, and subsequently earning her place in the line of David.
Deborah: Woman of strength, leadership
During a turbulent time in Israel’s history, when the nation repeatedly fell into cycles of disobedience and oppression, God raised up judges to lead and deliver His people. Among them was Deborah—the only named female judge—who stood out for her wisdom, courage, and unwavering faith.
As a leader, she called Israel back to God, fearlessly confronting corruption and spiritual complacency. Her strength and determination helped free her people from oppression.
This Women’s Day, we celebrate bold and influential women like Deborah—those who lead with wisdom, fight for justice, and inspire generations to walk in faith and courage.
Esther: Symbol of strength, influence in womanhood
Esther’s story is one of courage, faith, and leadership. Chosen as queen in the Persian Empire, she used her influence to protect the Jewish people from destruction, leading to the establishment of the festival of Purim. Like Deborah before her, Esther’s bravery ensured a safe place for Jewish worship, laying a foundation for the flourishing of Judaism and, later, the ministry of Jesus.
Her legacy resonates with the celebration of Women’s Day symbolising the power of women in shaping history. Esther’s story reminds us that women, through resilience and wisdom, can be agents of change in their communities.
New testament
Mary of Nazareth: Symbol of strength, courage
Mary’s role in history is profound—chosen as a young woman to bear the Savior of the world, she embraced her calling with faith and courage. Despite fear and uncertainty, she accepted her divine purpose, shaping the course of humanity.
Her story reflects the resilience of women, making her a fitting symbol to recognise. Like Mary, women continue to shape the world through strength, sacrifice, and unwavering faith.
Mary of Bethany: Legacy of devotion, honor
Mary of Bethany’s act of anointing Jesus with costly perfume was a profound display of love and sacrifice. Despite criticism, Jesus defended her, declaring that her deed would be remembered wherever the Gospel was preached (Matthew 26:13).
Her story reflects the strength and impact of women in shaping history, much like those honored on Women’s Day. Mary’s devotion reminds us that women’s actions, no matter how small, can leave a lasting legacy of faith, love, and influence.
Mother Teresa: Legacy of compassion, service
Mother Teresa, born Anjezë Gonxhe Bojaxhiu, dedicated her life to helping the poor, founding the Missionaries of Charity, which now serves in nearly 90 countries. Traveling to India in 1929, she committed herself to the destitute in Kolkata. Honored with the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979, she redirected the award’s banquet funds to aid the needy. Canonised as a saint in 2016, her selfless service remains an inspiration.
Her legacy reminds us of the power of compassion, sacrifice, and women’s role in transforming society.
Queen Elizabeth II: Legacy of leadership, grace
Queen Elizabeth II, Britain’s longest-serving monarch, led for over 70 years, guiding her nation through times of triumph and challenge. Taking the throne at just 25, she became a global symbol of duty and resilience, working with 14 prime ministers while serving as Head of the Commonwealth, the Church of England, and the Armed Forces.
Her unwavering dedication reflects the strength of women in leadership, making her an inspiration, a reminder that women can lead with grace, wisdom, and endurance, shaping history for generations. Succeeded
Kamala Harris: Breaking barriers, inspiring women
Kamala Harris made history in November 2020 as the first female, Black, and South Asian American Vice President of the United States. Her journey to leadership was marked by determination—launching her own presidential campaign in 2019 before ultimately joining Joe Biden’s ticket as his running mate.
Her victory was more than a personal achievement; it was a milestone for women and girls worldwide, proving that leadership knows no gender. While facing both praise and criticism, Harris has demonstrated that women can thrive in male-dominated spaces and pave the way for future generations.
Today, we honor all women who break barriers and redefine what’s possible.
Malala Yousafzai: Voice for girls’ education
Malala Yousafzai became a global symbol of courage after speaking out for girls’ education in Pakistan, where the Taliban sought to ban it. Her anonymous diary gained worldwide attention, and despite surviving an assassination attempt in 2012, she continued her fight. At just 17, she became the youngest Nobel Peace Prize laureate.
Malala’s story is a powerful reminder on Women’s Day that education empowers women to change the world. Her resilience inspires girls everywhere to pursue their dreams fearlessly.
Her Royal Highness Sylvia Nagginda: Champion for women, development
Her Royal Highness Queen Sylvia Nagginda, the Nnaabagereka of Buganda, is a transformative leader dedicated to empowering women, youth, and children in Uganda. With a background in public relations and international development, she has worked with the United Nations and other global organisations.
Through the Nnabagereka Development Foundation, she champions education, health, and community development, emphasising cultural values (Obuntubulamu) for social progress.
A patron of several humanitarian and cultural organisations, she co-founded networks promoting African culture and philanthropy. Her work stands as a testament to the power of women in leadership, inspiring generations to create lasting change.
Janet Kataaha Museveni: Pillar of leadership, women empowerment
Janet Museveni, Uganda’s First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, has played a significant role in politics, education, and social development. Beyond politics, she has championed women and youth empowerment, founding Uganda Women’s Effort to Save Orphans (UWESO) and the National Strategy for the Advancement of Rural Women (NSARWU). She also leads initiatives on youth character development, safe motherhood, and healthcare for children.
As a devoted Christian and humanitarian, her leadership continues to inspire Ugandan women.
Dr Specioza Wandira Kazibwe: Uganda’s first female Vice President.
This pioneer made history in 1994 after being appointed Uganda’s first female Vice President.
Dr Kazibwe has been a relentless advocate for women’s rights and health issues nationally and internationally. She established the African Women’s Committee on Peace and Development (AWCPD) in 1998, driven by her commitment to women’s roles in Africa. The AWCPD’s mission is to facilitate women’s active participation in peace and development, across the continent.
Julia Sebutinde: Trailblazer in international justice
Julia Sebutinde made history as the first African woman judge on the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in 2012, paving the way for African women in law. Before this, she served as a High Court judge in Uganda, fearlessly tackling corruption in government institutions and ensuring transparency in governance.
Her dedication to justice extended beyond Uganda, as she served on the Special Court for Sierra Leone (2005–2011), prosecuting war crimes and human rights violations. Honored for her contributions to justice, Sebutinde remains a beacon of integrity and empowerment.
On Women’s Day, her legacy stands as a testament to the power of women in shaping justice and accountability worldwide.
Rebecca Kadaga: First woman speaker of the Parliament of Uganda
For 12 years, Rebecca Kadaga established herself as one of the highest-ranking women in Ugandan politics. She has been a trailblazer throughout her career, marking several firsts, including being the inaugural Ugandan woman to establish a legal practice, M/S Kadaga and Co. Advocates, in 1964. An advocate for human rights, she has consistently championed women’s rights, youth emancipation, and the pursuit of social and economic justice. Her commitment to these causes has solidified her influential role in shaping Uganda’s political and legal landscape.
Winnie Byanyima: Champion for women, social Justice
Winnie Byanyima, an aeronautical engineer, diplomat, and politician, currently serves as Executive Director of UNAIDS and Deputy Secretary-General of the UN.
She pioneered Uganda’s first parliamentary women’s caucus, influencing key gender provisions in the 1995 Constitution. In 2004, she played a key role in shaping the Protocol on the Rights of Women in Africa, tackling the impact of HIV/AIDS on women. Byanyima’s leadership continues to inspire, making her a celebrated figure in the fight for women’s rights and equality.
From the pages of Scripture to the halls of modern leadership, women have played pivotal roles in shaping history. Their stories of faith, resilience, and empowerment challenge us to rise and make a difference in our own spheres. This International Women’s Day, let us honor their legacy and continue the work of advancing rights, equality, and empowerment for all women and girls.
