Today, March 8th, marks International Women’s Day, a day that has been celebrated since the early 1900s.

The day’s aim is to raise awareness of women’s vital role in society as well as applaud every woman’s achievement, however big or small.

In recent years we’ve seen major steps taken towards achieving an equal society. Women everywhere are stepping up – just look around you – we have female politicians, doctors and even astronauts. However, unfortunately, there is still a big gap between men and women, with countless examples of inequality visible in everyday life. Healthcare and education are two major issues, as is violence – with women far more likely to experience abuse than men.

Here at Staying Alive we’re focused on promoting women’s rights in the fight against HIV. We want every woman to feel empowered. Physically and socially women are more vulnerable to HIV, it’s why we want each and every woman to be able to make her own choices when it comes to her sex life. Every woman should feel at ease saying no to sex – or asking a man to use a condom. Yes, it’s true we’ve come a long way – but there’s a lot more work to do. We all have a part to play.

To celebrate International Women’s Day, we’re asking you to send us a couple of sentences on the women you find inspiring in your life – it could be anyone, from your mother to your best friend, to a notable personality in the media.

Let us know about the special women in your life by leaving a comment below.

Happy International Women’s Day – let’s keep up the good fight.