At Forward & Thinking, we are proud to celebrate and recognise the strides women have made in changing the workplace. As a female-led and majority agency, we are honouring each other and how we make our workplace vibrant, innovative, and dynamic. Our agency thrives because of the brilliant women who lead and inspire us every day.
For us, International Women’s Day is about cultivating an environment where women can thrive, grow, and feel supported year-round. It’s a day to pause, reflect, and celebrate how far we’ve come while committing to continue the fight for gender equality in the workplace and beyond.
While we take pride in our gender diversity, we also recognise that the advertising industry, especially as a Northern agency (like many others) can still do more to close the gender gap, promote inclusivity, and ensure equal opportunities for all. IWD allows us to celebrate women’s achievements in a visible, intentional way.
Here’s how we are celebrating and embracing this year’s theme of ‘Accelerate Action’.
As an agency, we come together every week as a collaborative team to identify and discuss brands that we would love to work with. This week, we focus on women-run brands that align with our values and expertise. By sharing insights, brainstorming ideas, and pooling our collective knowledge, we aim to uncover how we as an agency can collaborate, support and elevate brands, driving impactful partnerships that champion female entrepreneurship.
We asked some of the team what women-run brands we love at the moment. Here’s what they said:
Skin Rocks
Skin Rocks is a dynamic, female-run brand that champions the power of self-care and skin confidence. Caroline, the founder, has a passion for women and is dedicated to empowering others. The brand focuses on delivering high-quality skincare products designed to enhance natural beauty. With a deep understanding of the unique needs of every skin type, Skin Rocks blends innovation and inclusivity to create products that not only nurture but celebrate individuality. As a female-led business, it stands as a testament to the strength, creativity, and determination of women in the beauty industry, inspiring others to feel confident in their skin.
Odd Muse
Odd Muse is a visionary, female-run brand that stands at the intersection of style, sustainability, and empowerment. The brand is driven by the prevailing desire to change the status quo for young women surrounding fashion consumption. Founder Aimee focuses on creating timeless, high-quality fashion that is both eco-conscious and inclusive. By blending elegance with sustainability, Odd Muse proves that being female-led means being at the forefront of innovation and positive change in the fashion world
GoodBox
GoodBox is a groundbreaking, female-run brand that is transforming the way we interact with charitable giving through contactless technology. Founded by a visionary woman, GoodBox has created innovative devices that make donating to causes effortless, empowering both charities and donors. The brand’s focus on accessibility, simplicity, and impact has helped redefine philanthropy, allowing people to contribute with just a tap. As a female-led business, GoodBox reflects the strength and creativity of women in technology, proving that innovation and social good can go hand in hand, while driving change in both the tech and charity sectors.
Monica Vinader
Monica Vinader is a luxurious, female-run jewellery brand that combines contemporary design with timeless elegance. Founded by a visionary woman with a passion for creating accessible luxury, the brand offers beautifully crafted pieces that empower individuals. Monica Vinader stands out not only for its commitment to quality and sustainability but for its dedication to championing female entrepreneurship. As a woman-led business, it serves as an inspiring example of how female leadership can influence and shape the future of the fashion and jewellery industries, blending creativity with purpose.
WUKA
WUKA is a pioneering, female-run brand that is redefining sustainability and comfort in the world of period care. Founded by a passionate woman with a mission to provide eco-friendly, innovative alternatives to traditional menstrual products, WUKA creates reusable, leak-proof underwear designed to empower and support women throughout their cycles. As a female-led business, WUKA is driven by a deep commitment to sustainability, inclusivity, and breaking taboos around menstruation. By focusing on both the well-being of its customers and the planet, WUKA showcases the strength and determination of women in leading change and making a positive impact on the world.
At Forward & Thinking, we support female entrepreneurship and leadership in the industry and want to work with more female-founded brands. We dedicate time to fostering an inclusive environment where young women starting their careers in advertising feel encouraged, supported, and empowered. At Forward & Thinking, we are proud to be a female-led and majority agency!
How are you celebrating International Women’s Day? We would love to hear!
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