“It’s a fantastic job for women my age,” said June Robertson, a bus driver who returned to the profession after nearly four decades. Her statement reflects a growing trend of women entering fields traditionally dominated by men, particularly in transportation.

On March 8, 2026, the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) announced the winners of the International Women’s Day Recognition Awards, which have been held annually since 2013. This year, Lucha Villar Galvez was honored in the Leadership category for her 30 years of involvement in the Paralympic Movement, while Shakhnoza Mirziyoyeva received the Emerging Leadership award. Mirziyoyeva expressed her pride, stating, “I am proud to be part of a movement where sport creates real opportunities and drives meaningful progress.”

Highlighting Women’s Representation

The awards also recognized World Para Ice Hockey, which won the IPC Member category for its efforts to increase female participation in the sport. In 2021, female representation in Para ice hockey was just 1%, but this figure rose to 20% by 2025, marking significant progress in a short time.

Robertson’s return to bus driving in 2024 is emblematic of the changing landscape for women in the workforce. She encourages women, particularly those around the age of 50, to consider careers in driving, stating, “The more women drivers we have, the more visible we’ll be and hopefully that’ll result in more women joining us themselves.” This sentiment aligns with broader initiatives aimed at increasing women’s visibility and representation in various sectors.

Community Engagement and Support

Rangers Football Club supported the #GiveToGain campaign for International Women’s Day 2026, which encourages communities to advocate for women’s advancement through resources, opportunities, and advocacy. As part of this initiative, four academy players took on key roles during a matchday, showcasing leadership and inspiring ambition among their peers.

The IPC’s recognition awards and community initiatives like #GiveToGain highlight the ongoing efforts to empower women and promote gender equality in sports and other fields. As the world continues to evolve, the importance of such recognition and support remains crucial in driving meaningful change.

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