International Women's Day
- Mar 10
- 2 min read
Reflection on Women’s Leadership in Conflict Zones 2026
Third Moon Women celebrated International Women's Day
with a small ceremonial meal, where we remembered women in war-torn countries. Here we share a taster of our evening with those who couldn't be with us.
“Of the 15 countries currently under missile or rocket attack, none have female heads of state or government."
Leadership in these regions remains overwhelmingly male, even as millions of women and children live with the consequences of war.
Tonight, as we gather to send peace outward, we also honour the power, wisdom, and resilience of women everywhere, those who are leading communities, raising families, and holding hope in the darkest times.
Even when leadership structures are dominated by men, women’s voices, compassion, and courage radiate influence far beyond titles, shaping healing, survival, and the future.
Let this our gathering remind us that peace begins in hearts that dare to act, regardless of official power
We honour women’s courage and send our compassion across the world as families die under the guise of a better world."
An extract from this evening's TMW International Women’s Day ceremony.
Janelle
As part of the ceremony, we created a shared meal. We brought together a Seven Seeds dish, each participant contributing an ingredient. The seven-seed dish was a reflection of the many foods eaten(in the world’s war-torn areas) and of the symbolism they themselves represent.
Ingredients & Symbolism (Gluten-Free, Vegan)
1. Quinoa – Nourishment, abundance, connection to the earth (gluten-free, vegan alternative to wheat)
2. Buckwheat – Strength, resilience, sustenance (naturally gluten-free, vegan alternative to barley)
3. Lentils – Community and shared resources
4. Chickpeas – Compassion and unity
5. Pomegranate seeds – Hope, renewal, sweetness
6. Pumpkin seeds – Protection, grounding
7. Sunflower seeds – Warmth, energy, light
Optional: Sprinkle lightly with maple syrup or agave for a sweet blessing, still vegan.
Ritual end
“The peace we have shared in this circle
we now carry with us into the world.
May our words be kind,
our actions bring healing,
and our hearts remain open.
"May peace travel with each of us
and find its way to every land.”
Great to reflect on what peace means for us all, as women. Nurturing ourselves and our community and sending hopes for peace out there into the wider world.
As ever, I am inspired by the wisdom and purpose of Third Moon Women. May we keep our focus on doing the small things and holding a place of peace in our own hearts. Love to you all and a huge hug of thanks to Janelle for running this xxx