International Women’s Day 2026

Sharing cupcakes, hot chocolate, and heartfelt stories of the women who inspire us.

We’re so proud of the women studying here at UPIC. Their grades reflect a clear desire for academic success, but they also strive for something equally as important: friendship and real-world connection.

To celebrate International Women’s Day (Sunday 8^th March), we invited a group of students for a catch-up at Drake’s Kitchen. The atmosphere was super cosy and we sat down with our cupcake and hot chocolate, ready to talk about everything that’s recently happened on campus. We filled the café with laughter and everyone felt right at home.

As we talked, it became clear that although we admire those in the spotlight; the most powerful inspiration was much closer to home. One word surfaced, again and again, until the true hero of the afternoon was undeniable: Mum.

The Ultimate Role Model

It was lovely to hear stories about mothers and grandmothers from different cultures. Nicole, from Zimbabwe, spoke with great warmth about her entrepreneurial mother. She shared how her mum demonstrates the intelligence and work ethic that she hopes to mirror in the future: “She embodies everything that I’d like to embody at her age.”

Rakhi, from India, credited her mother for her own sense of ambition: “I motivate myself. I always try to work hard, and all these qualities come from my mother. She would always teach me to strive for what I want to achieve in life.”

Fatema, from Bangladesh, told us a fascinating story about her maternal grandmother. In a time when not many women had the opportunity to become doctors, she managed to practice medicine back in the 1960s. She said: “My grandmother really believed in humanity and helping people, which is so amazing. It definitely took her to a very good place in life.” It’s a reminder that the women who came before us have paved the way for women in the 21^st Century.

Powerhouse Celebrities

The inspiration continued as Milena, from Brazil, shared how she finds strength in her friends. She also praised Selena Gomez for her resilience in battling a chronic illness, while maintaining strong community spirit: “She doesn’t let her battle with Lupus take her down. She’s always progressing and trying to help other people as well, which I think is really beautiful.”

Following the theme of iconic women, Rita, from Nigeria, told us that she’s deeply inspired by actress and runway model Temi Otedola because “she has transformed the fashion industry.”

Women Supporting Women

This event showcased the wide range of perspectives that our students bring to Plymouth, Britain’s Ocean City. At the same time, the connection between all these stories had an enchanting symmetry across each culture. Listening to everyone’s motivations in life really highlighted the supportive community we strive for here at UPIC. Whether it’s a fashion icon or a hardworking family member, these women remind us to keep progressing and lifting each other up along the way.

Many thanks to the team at Drake’s Kitchen for hosting us in such a gorgeous setting. It was the perfect place to celebrate the strength of women everywhere.