Celebrating International Women's Day
March 8th marks International Women’s Day, a global celebration of the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. It is a chance to reflect on the remarkable feats of women, past and present, while also recognising the amazing women we encounter in our own personal and professional lives. Ultimately, International Women’s Day is about forging a gender equal world, free from bias, stereotypes and discrimination. A world where people of all genders have equal opportunities to thrive.
This year’s theme for International Women's Day is ‘Give To Gain’, which emphasises the importance of generosity and collaboration in promoting gender equality. The theme encourages individuals and organisations to contribute to women's advancement through knowledge sharing, and support.
The travel and tourism sector employs more women than any other. However, just like in the wider workforce, more must be done to ensure women in our sector are given the opportunities to progress to senior roles.
In Durham, great strides towards gender equality have already been made across the county, with women holding top positions at some of the county’s key tourism businesses and demonstrating incredible leadership and entrepreneurship. The Visit County Durham advisory board boasts a number of inspirational women who are supporting the growth and development of the county’s visitor economy. In their own words they share why celebrating International Women’s Day is so important.
Michelle Gorman – managing director, Visit County Durham
Michelle is an experienced tourism and destination management professional with more than 25 years of leadership in the visitor economy. Since 2006, she has been at the forefront of transforming County Durham into a high-quality, competitive destination for both domestic and international visitors; helping to grow the county’s visitor economy and position Durham as a great place to live, work, visit, study and invest.
“At Visit County Durham we recognise the importance of International Women’s Day. The county’s visitor economy is inclusive, with female leaders holding key positions in the accommodation, attraction and food and drink sectors, and entrepreneurs leading and developing successful businesses. This International Women’s Day, join us in celebrating women’s accomplishments.”
Councillor Karen Allison
Karen Allison was elected in May 2025 as a County Councillor for Annfield Plain and Tanfield, and is the portfolio holder for Leisure, Tourism and High Streets at Durham County Council. With a background rooted in retail and the Post Office since 1997, she brings decades of valuable business experience to her public service role.
“Across the county incredible women are achieving incredible things, and the visitor economy is just one such area. I am a member of the Visit County Durham Advisory Board, the council's tourism service, alongside a number of other female professionals who are leaders in their field. Together we are committed to supporting the county to prosper, and supporting women to succeed, which in turn helps communities thrive.
Celebrating International Women's Day and highlighting their achievements is essential to empower women, foster equality and inspire future generations”.
Hannah Fox – director, The Bowes Museum
Hannah was appointed director of The Bowes Museum in May 2022, and has championed equal rights all her life, thinking carefully about how she can effect change.
“At The Bowes Museum, our latest work includes a new Founders Gallery that highlights how Josephine Bowes challenged expectations in her time - and still inspires us today. Her story reminds us that progress comes from people who push boundaries and open doors for others. This International Women’s Day, we’re building on that legacy by continuing to make the museum a place where everyone feels seen, valued and able to thrive.”
Rhiannon Hiles, chief executive of Beamish, The Living Museum of the North
Rhiannon started at Beamish over 35 years ago as an engager and volunteer, and now leads a combined team of around 900 staff and volunteers at the museum, which is the North East’s most visited attraction and was named Art Fund Museum of the Year 2025, the world’s largest museum prize. Rhiannon contributes her wide-ranging expertise to networks regionally, nationally and internationally.
“I’m incredibly proud to be leading our fantastic team of staff and volunteers at Beamish. The museum is a beating heart of the North East, and I’m passionate about championing our region and communities, including our work around learning and skills, health and wellbeing, accessibility and helping to create opportunities.
“At Beamish we share the stories of women’s lives through time, including inequalities faced and the accomplishments of the region’s inspirational women, and we’ll be holding International Women’s Day celebrations this weekend (7th and 8th March 2026). I’m proud of the museum’s achievements and to be a woman leader and hope that I inspire and encourage other women in their own development.”
Alison Maynard, deputy principal, New College Durham
Alison joined New College Durham in July 2022 as Deputy Principal for Curriculum, and has over 28 years of experience working in the sector.
“Give to Gain reminds us that progress is not a solitary journey. When we give support, we gain strength. When we give opportunity, we gain innovation. When we give recognition, we gain confidence. And when we give space for women to lead, we gain a future shaped by diverse perspectives and inclusive growth. ‘Give to Gain’ is not just about generosity it is about intentional investment. It is about choosing to uplift women not only because it is right, but because it drives progress for everyone.
Dr Sarah Price, head of Locomotion
Sarah was appointed head of Locomotion, part of the Science Museum Group, in 2018 and is the first woman to lead the museum.
“Although the railways have traditionally been seen as a male-dominated industry, the museum has a broad appeal, and this is demonstrated by the fact that close to half (43 per cent) of our visitors are women. It’s also important that we provide a programme of public events and activities which appeal to a diverse range of people and communities."
Anna Warnecke - chief executive officer, 11Arches
Anna has been involved in Kynren - one of the North East’s most ambitious visitor attractions - since its inception in 2016. Initially leading as Director of Cavalry & Estates, and now at the helm as CEO since 2024, she brings a unique blend of creativity and operational expertise to the role.
“International Women’s Day is a moment to recognise the women who shape our communities, culture and future. At Kynren we are incredibly proud of the many women who give their time, talent and energy as volunteers, helping to bring our stories to life on stage and behind the scenes. Their passion, creativity and commitment are at the heart of what makes Kynren so special. As we continue to grow and launch Kynren – The Storied Lands, we remain committed to creating opportunities for women to take part, lead and inspire the next generation.”