Ahead of International Women’s Day (Saturday 8 March), our scholars celebrate the women in their lives who inspire them, guide them and have helped them get to where they are today.
Who are you celebrating this International Women's Day?
Laura Wathe, MPhil in Engineering for Sustainable Development
I would like to celebrate my mentor, Eng. Winfred Mutinda, HSC – a role model who has touched my life deeply.
An electrical engineer by training and an Oxford-educated policymaker, Eng. Mutinda breaks down gender barriers in East Africa’s energy and policy sectors.
Yet, despite her many accomplishments, including Kenya’s highest civilian award, she remains humble and accessible.
Her constant support, insightful advice, and honest feedback have been invaluable, and she has helped me see my potential when I doubted myself.
Her commitment to empowering girls from underserved communities to become women in STEM makes her a beacon of inspiration.
Winnie is truly the embodiment of the saying 'we rise by lifting others'.
Favour Kayode, MPhil in Advanced Chemical Engineering
On this International Women’s Day, I celebrate my mother, Olufunmilayo Kayode.
My pride, my strength, my unwavering support. The one whose heart beats, and with every beat, comes the thought of me.
The one who loves me wholly, unconditionally, even when I fail to reciprocate as I should.
My biggest supporter. The one who sees beyond my present, knowing that my current capabilities are only a fraction of what I can become.
Today, I celebrate an icon, a visionary – the one who has always believed in a version of me that I have yet to see.
Ever so vulnerable, she shares her wisdom, urging me never to repeat the mistakes she made. A mother’s love, pure and boundless.
I honour you on this day. I love you, Mama – endlessly, fiercely, eternally.
Merna Nomier, MPhil in Energy Technologies
I have spent the past year alternating between my laptop backpack and my daughter's diaper bag, as a mother of an infant who happens to be a full-time student at the University of Cambridge, in an engineering field where women are often underrepresented.
Trying to survive both roles, has given me a deep appreciation for their significance and the challenges they entail.
I also realised how important it is for women to support one another in order to succeed.
Today, I want to honour every woman – regardless of her title – who contributes to making our community stronger through dedication and perseverance.
It is not a title that defines one’s impact, but rather the sincerity of one’s efforts.
Whether a CEO, volunteer or a stay-at-home mother, every woman who plays a role in shaping our society deserves recognition and celebration.
Brenda Mumwesigye, MPhil in Planning, Growth and Regeneration
Today, I celebrate the most extraordinary woman in my life – my mother. She may not be known to the world, but to me, she is the embodiment of strength, courage and selflessness.
Mama, I have seen your tears, shed with hope and unwavering faith that I would one day stand strong in a better place. Because of you, I have grown into a courageous and resilient person.
Your words, "Life is what you make it", have been my guiding light, teaching me to make wise choices while embracing bold and calculated risks. Your sacrifices, seen and unseen, have shaped my journey.
On this International Women’s Day, I honour you and all the incredible women whose quiet strength transforms lives.
Thank you, Mama – you are my greatest inspiration.