International Women's Day was begun by the United Nations three decades ago, to champion gender equality and empower women across the globe.
This year on March 8, the focus is on equality: equal rights, equal opportunities, equal power.
UN Women Australia has called for a "March Forward" for a gender equal future.
In the past 30 years, "we've seen women break barriers, reshape policies and ignite global movements", the IWD website states.
But there is still more to do.
This year, in recognition of IWD, the Advertiser talks to three local women who have overcome personal adversity and marched forward to achieve their dreams and goals. Along the way, they also offered a helping hand to others, lifting up the women and girls around them.
Hopefully their stories will be an inspiration to us all.
You can find more IWD news at www.un.org/en/observances/womens-day and www.iwd.net.au

Artist Sharnee Taylor recently raised $350 for Endometriosis Australia