06/03/2026
Today we remember and celebrate remarkable women across the decades.
History is rich with extraordinary women whose courage, intellect and determination have helped shape the world we live in today. From scientists and explorers to mathematicians and environmental pioneers, their achievements continue to inspire generations. What is perhaps most striking is how often their work has been driven by something greater than personal success. Many have shared their discoveries, knowledge and influence not for the profit of a few, but for the benefit of many — advancing science, protecting the natural world, strengthening communities and opening doors for those who follow.
Their legacy is not only one of brilliance, but of generosity, collaboration and enduring contribution.
Most importantly though, let's stand up and celebrate all of the strong, courageous women who surround us every day - to the mothers who bring life into this world, to those dedicated to caring for others. To entrepreneurial business women who build companies alongside all of their many other commitments - we congratulate you! And to the countless women who quietly strengthen our communities each and every day.
Thank you.
STC x
A small roll call of some inspirational women:
1920s — Gertrude Bell (Explorer & Archeologist)
Up to date relevance to the middle east. This woman worked collaboratively with tribes, learnt Arabic and worked with Laurence of Arabia to help create a more peaceful map of ancient Arabia. She was an explorer, linguist and archaeologist who travelled extensively across the Middle East. She mapped large areas of Mesopotamia and played an important role in the formation of modern Iraq, later helping establish the National Museum of Iraq.
1950s - Rosalind Franklin (Scientist)
Her famous “Photo 51” image of DNA provided critical evidence for discovering the double helix structure — a breakthrough that transformed modern biology. Sadly, Franklin, who died of ovarian cancer in 1958 at the age of 37, and as such was ineligible to receive the Nobel Prize, which, at that time was not awarded posthumously.
1960s - Katherine Johnson (mathematician & space exploration)
Her complex orbital calculations helped guide NASA missions and played a vital role in the Apollo 11 Moon Landing. Astronaut John Glenn insisted she personally verify the flight numbers before launch. Many will have seen the wonderful film, Hidden Figures, which features this wonderful lady... definitely one for the watch list, if not!
1970's - not one, but many - The Women of Greenham Common
Yes, you can change things! Greenham Common Women's Peace Camp. One of the most remarkable peace movements in modern British history. Thousands of women gathered at RAF Greenham Common to protest the placement of nuclear cruise missiles.
Their peaceful demonstrations, including the famous human chains around the base, became an enduring symbol of grassroots activism and women-led protest.
1990s – Jane Goodall (Conservationist)
Sadly passing recently, her pioneering field research transformed our understanding of chimpanzees and the relationship between humans and animals. She later founded the Jane Goodall Institute, inspiring global conservation and youth environmental movements.
2000s - Dame Ellen MacArthur (Sailor)
Initially learning her craft on a small reservoir in Derbyshire, she went on to be one of the greatest sailors in history. She shattered the solo round-the-world sailing record in 2005, navigating the planet’s most dangerous oceans alone. She later founded the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, pioneering global work on the circular economy and sustainable design.
2010s — Dame Stephanie “Steve” Shirley (Software entrepreneur)
A refugee who arrived in Britain as a child and went on to found one of the UK’s first software companies, pioneering large-scale software development. At a time when women were routinely excluded from the technology sector, she built a company that employed hundreds of female programmers working from home, decades before remote work became common. Her company ultimately employed over 8,000 people worldwide, and she later donated the majority of her fortune to autism research and charitable causes.
2020s Anne-Marie Imafidon (Technologist and Mathematician)
A remarkable British technologist and mathematician who showed extraordinary talent from a young age, passing GCSEs in mathematics and IT at just 10 and completing a Master’s degree in mathematics and computer science from University of Oxford by the age of 20. After working in technology roles with major global companies, she founded Stemettes to address the lack of women in science and technology. Through mentoring, events and educational programmes, the organisation has helped thousands of girls and young women across the UK gain confidence and opportunities in STEM fields. She has since become one of Britain’s leading voices on diversity, education and the future of technology, championing a more inclusive and innovative digital world.
... and not forgetting, my Mum x
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