Celebrating 115 years of International Women’s Day!

This year marks 115 years of International Women’s Day, which recognises the achievements of women and highlights the ongoing work needed to advance gender equality. It’s important as it raises awareness of persistent inequalities, inspires action for positive change, and celebrates the contributions women make in society. This year, the theme is Give to Gain, which encourages a mindset of generosity and collaboration.

Here are some brilliant women from across our business sharing their proudest achievements and inspirational thoughts about what International Women’s Day means to them.

Joanne Mulcrow, Operational Relationship Manager, UK

I have just celebrated my 25 year Anniversary with APS, I started as an office junior, and have worked my way all the way up to Team Manager.

Anne-Maro Huberts, Creative Lead, Europe

This year marks my 13th in advertising, I’m grateful to step into a team lead role and what that represents. Lived experience taught me the power of clarity, trust, and supporting people so they feel seen and heard. I want women to invest in their experience – confidence comes from knowing your worth. I strongly believe women don’t need luck. They need themselves.

Jo Griffiths, Senior Account Manager, UK

I took part in the APS-organised National 3 Peaks challenge. We completed it in 23hrs 52mins and raised over £2,000 for Muscular Dystrophy. I was the only female participant on the team.

Jessica Rodrigues, Client Services Director, US

I volunteer at my church’s Youth Group mentoring teens, building relationships and growing in faith together. Supporting the teen girls and watching them grow in confidence, helping them feel seen, heard, and valued, has been incredibly impactful. It’s shown me how powerful it is for women to step into leadership roles and uplift the next generation.

Karima Boudhan, Account Manager, the Netherlands

Women have been conditioned to soften their tone, adjust their presence, second-guess instincts and prove they belong. Over time, I’ve realised that growth isn’t about fighting harder, it’s about doubting myself less. It feels like the right moment to say this out loud: Taking up space is not being difficult. Clarity is not coldness. Boundaries are not hostility.

Roksana Oniszczuk, Operational Relationship Manager, UK

I moved from Poland to the UK and rebuilt my home, confidence, and career from the ground up. I joined APS as a Scanning Operator and I’m proud to have progressed to Team Manager. I’m celebrating resilience, growth, and the people who help us achieve more than we ever imagined.

Mariia Klochko, Senior Motion Graphic Designer, the Netherlands

I had a successful creative career in Ukraine but when the war broke out, I moved to the Netherlands. I’ve since progressed both personally and professionally – even learning Dutch! We are much stronger than we think, braver than we feel. I wish all women confidence, courage, growth, and belief in their own strength.

Michele Sung, Account Director, Canada

I’m reflecting on the importance of leadership and representation. As a mother of two daughters, how I show up matters; they’re watching how women lead with confidence, integrity, and purpose. I’m proud to build a career rooted in trust and impact, helping shape a future where female leadership feels both achievable and authentic.

Manuela Muller, Account Director, Germany

I was born into a communist regime where for women confidence, ambition, and the right to take up space were often discouraged. Women were needed but equality did not exist. From the women around me, I learned to be strong, find solutions, and be independent. I now show my son that real strength doesn’t mean forgetting yourself.

As we mark International Women’s Day, we’re grateful to the women across APS Group who continue to inspire and lead others every day. Their stories reflect the collaboration, resilience and generosity that help us make more possible together.

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