International Women’s Day 2026: Women Leaders on Health, Empowerment and Success

International Women’s Day is a time to honor the achievements, resilience, and influence of women around the world. It’s also an opportunity to reflect on the challenges women face, particularly when it comes to health, identity, and the balancing act of personal and professional lives. To mark the occasion, FEELIN’ GOOD spoke to thought leaders across wellness, beauty, and business, who shared their perspectives on women’s health, empowerment, and success.

Reframing menopause and women’s health

Gayu Lewis, Menopause Wellness Advocate and Holistic Coach, highlights a vital perspective on midlife women’s health:

“Women are not broken. They are navigating health systems that were never intended with their biology in mind, are overextended, and lack sufficient knowledge. As a chef, podcast host, and integrative women’s health coach, I assist women, particularly those in their midlife, in re-establishing a connection with their bodies rather than battling them. Menopause and perimenopause are identity changes as well as hormonal changes. And far too frequently, women are told to just endure symptoms like anxiety, weight gain, brain fog, or exhaustion without being provided with practical resources.

I connect science to practical applications. My objective is straightforward: clarity over confusion. I do this by teaching women how to prepare meals for their families that are high in protein and blood sugar-balancing, advising corporates on menopause awareness in the workplace, and hosting evidence-based discussions on my podcast.
I want women to understand what is happening inside their bodies so they can advocate for themselves with confidence. When a woman feels informed, nourished and supported, everything changes. She shows up differently at work, at home and in her community.
Menopause is not a pause. It is a powerful transition. And I am here to help women move through it stronger than ever.”

Gayu’s insight reminds us that true empowerment begins with knowledge, self-care, and practical support, particularly during transitional phases of life.

Health, balance and wellbeing

Dr. Yasmin Kottait reflects on the broader dimensions of health:

“On Women’s Day, I reflect on the quiet strength women carry every single day. We are builders. Of careers. Of families. Of communities. We lead businesses, raise children, care for others, and still find the courage to pursue our own aspirations. Yet too often, women place their own health last. True success means nothing without wellbeing. A woman’s health is not only physical—it is emotional, hormonal, mental and spiritual. It is the ability to set boundaries, to choose supportive environments, and to protect her energy without guilt. 

As an entrepreneur and healthcare professional, I have learned that legacy is not measured only by achievements, but by the safety, opportunity and example we create for others. When women lead with strength and compassion, they redefine industries. When women prioritize their wellbeing, families grow stronger. When women dare to think bigger, communities evolve.To every woman balancing ambition with responsibility, your health matters. Your vision matters. Your rest matters. Invest in yourself the way you invest in everyone else. Because when women are well, confident and empowered, they don’t just build businesses—they build a better future for everyone. Happy Women’s Day.”

Dr. Kottait’s words encourage women to see wellbeing as integral to leadership and legacy, not a luxury.

Celebrating female power

Athina Theodoridi, Founder of Thy Skin, highlights the importance of embracing feminine power:

“I think women and men have different, complementary superpowers, and the key is the balance. Too much masculine and you may end up fighting. Too much femininity and you may settle in comfort. In these times we definitely see we need more women tuned into their female superpowers to balance the scales.”

On navigating personal and professional journeys, she highlights: “I do not think there is any advice that could make the journey less adventurous. It will be an adventure with good and bad turns. The question is: are you ready to accept the ride and feel it? It will challenge, knock you down but it will give you a sense of who you truly are and grounding as nothing else. Success and failure in this construct does not exist!”

Athina’s perspective is a reminder that authenticity, resilience, and embracing the unknown are key components of growth.

Inspiration and mentorship

Maria Dowling, Founder of mariadowling Salon Dubai, emphasises celebrating achievements and lifting others: “I believe many women are too humble when professing their talents and accomplishments. By having a day dedicated to women, it empowers us to celebrate ourselves and also advocate for other women. It is also an important reminder to future generations that women can have an important role and huge impact on the global stage.”

Her advice for women seeking success is: “LOVE what you do as your passion has to show through the work you undertake. Ensure you have an inspirational mentor, and in turn mentor those who follow you.”

Trusting your intuition and finding balance

Asma Hilal Lootah, Emirati founder of The Hundred Wellness Centre, underscores the importance of intuition and balance: “Highlighting women’s role on the global stage is essential because women contribute enormously to society, business, science, education, and community building. Above all, women are the mothers who shape the next generation. Recognizing these contributions inspires both women and men to believe in the value of women’s voices, ideas, and leadership. It also reminds us that progress happens when diverse perspectives are included in shaping our world.”

Her advice to aspiring women leaders is:“My advice is to trust your intuition. Listen to your inner voice — it is often your best guide. If something doesn’t make sense to you, ask questions and look for answers. Don’t easily accept ‘no’ as the final word when you truly believe in something.
At the same time, stay grounded in who you are. 

Strength and femininity are not opposites. You can be decisive, ambitious, and determined while still remaining calm, composed, and authentic. Some of the most inspiring leaders I’ve observed carry themselves with a quiet confidence and steadiness, especially during difficult moments. That balance is very powerful.”

A unified message

Across industries, from wellness and beauty to healthcare and entrepreneurship, the message is clear: women thrive when they are informed, supported, and empowered. Whether it’s navigating menopause, leading a business, mentoring the next generation, or embracing feminine strength, women’s health, confidence, and balance are the foundations of personal and societal progress.

This International Women’s Day, let’s celebrate not just achievements, but also the journeys, wisdom, and resilience of women everywhere. Because when women are well, confident, and empowered, the impact reaches far beyond themselves, it shapes communities, industries and the future.