Today is International Women’s Day, a time to stop and reflect, advocate and speak out on the social, cultural and political achievements of women everywhere. It’s a time for all of us to think about how we are making the world more inclusive and creating a pathway towards true gender equality.

The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day is #BeBoldForChange and it is a sentiment that resonates loudly in today’s world. IWD has been recognized and honored since 1908 when women’s oppression and inequality become more active and vocal – a day where 15,000 women marched through New York City demanding shorter hours, better pay and voting rights.  Since then the world has witnessed massive change as we continue to embrace a rich and diverse workforce.

In PR, we are part of a female dominated industry with the power to reach millions and make a statement. In total, more than 70% of PR professionals are women and I couldn’t be prouder to be the CEO of a firm that not only works diligently to empower women, but that also walks the talk in terms of providing opportunities for women to grow.

A recent study showed that among the world’s most industrialized democracies (the G7 – of which the U.S. is part), 39 percent of companies have no women in senior roles. Of the companies that do, only 22 percent have women in these roles. At PAN, I’m proud to say that our management team is comprised of 67 percent females.

Challenging the status quo and creating an inclusive, flexible culture at PAN has been a primary goal of mine since day one. PAN is surrounded by strong women who have made a positive impact because of their talent, voice, tenacity and relentless motivation.

We wouldn’t be where we are now without the women in our lives and we celebrate and recognize their accomplishments not just today but every day here at PAN. Whether it be your colleagues, mentors, daughters, grandmothers, aunts, sisters or wives – here’s to them:

May we know them, 

may we be them 

and may we raise them.