The annual event, which takes place on March 8, was born in 1911 and inspired more than one million women and men to take part in IWD rallies in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland.

They campaigned for women's rights to work, vote, be trained, to hold public office and end discrimination.

Now, over a century later, it has become an important day on calendars throughout the world.

This year's theme is 'Choose To Challenge' and with Bradford's long history of strong and influential women, we are no stranger to standing up for what we believe in and breaking down barriers.

From Haworth's literary trio, The Brontë sisters, to campaigner Margaret McMillan who fought for the 1906 Provision of School Meals Act, it's in our blood.

And even now the women of Bradford continue to fight for what they believe in. 

This year's Community Stars Awards recognised those who go above and beyond everyday to help boost lives, like Dawn Coleman who set up the Shipley Area School Uniform Bank. 

While the T&A's Women of Bradford Instagram page shares stories about the next generation of inspiring women.

We've featured people from all walks of life: women who balance their career dreams with motherhood, young businesswomen, those raising awareness of mental health, care workers, nurses and 'everyday' people who want to help others.

So, who inspires you and who do you want to lift up for International Women's Day 2021?

It could be your mum, a friend or someone who helped you in a time of need. Share your stories and messages below.

From Community contributor

Who are you celebrating today and what is your message to her?Shannon Palmer i have been following Shannons instagram journey when she first started documenting her weightloss journey, i have loved following her weightloss journey after losing 5 stone, beating the bullies, her life day to day, working on the front like during the pandemic .. i know myself like a lot of people really look upto Shazza P, she doesnt sugar coat life she speaks about in frankly and always as time to talk to her followers even after her long 12 hour shift ... i think in hindsight juggling life and working on the front life Shannon really is an inspiration to myself and a lot of other women up and down the country .. here here Shannon Bravo .. would love to see more from her in the future x

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Shannon