Square Now International Women's Day 2025

Every year International Women's Day (IWD) serves as a powerful reminder of the progress made toward gender equality and the work that still needs to be done. In 2025, we embrace the theme of "Accelerating Action for Gender Equality", recognizing the meaningful change requires more than just awareness, it demands action.

Across industries, workplaces, and communities, women continue to break barriers, challenge biases, and lead innovation. Yet, true gender equality remains an ongoing journey. It is no longer enough to discuss inclusion, we must take concrete steps to empower women, create equal opportunities, and build a more inclusive society.

To celebrate IWD 2025, we feature four inspiring women from Samsung SDS, who share their perspectives on what gender equality means to them, the small actions we can take to create change, and their advice for building confidence in the workplace. Here are their perspectives:

Kim Yeonsil (Silvia) | Contract Logistics Group | Samsung SDS Malaysia

1. What does accelerating action for gender equality mean to you?

To me, accelerating action for gender equality in 2025 means advancing from simply raising awareness to implementing concrete and rapid actions that produce real, tangible change.
While discussions about gender equality continue, it's important to acknowledge that more women are assuming leadership roles, and pay gaps are gradually being narrowed, but women still face barriers in leadership opportunities, wage gaps and unconscious biases.

The theme encourages us to transition from conversation to decisive steps, recognizing that progress needs to happen at a much quicker pace.

2. What's one small action we can all take to support women in the workplace or community?

One small yet impactful action we can take to support women in the workplace or community is to genuinely listen to and uplift their voices.

By acknowledging their contributions and ensuring their voices are heard, we can foster a more inclusive environment.

For instance, affirming phrases like, "That’s an excellent point. Let's delve into it further." can significantly enhance the visibility and appreciation of their contributions.

3. What's one piece of advice you would give to help women feel more confident in their workplace?

Never doubt your capability or ability because of gender. Self-doubt can be one of the biggest internal barriers many women face in professional settings.
Let's challenge ourselves to step outside our comfort zones and not limit ourselves.
We should embrace our successes and confidently express our value. By doing so, we can help create a workplace where everyone feels empowered and appreciated.

Liew Yen Tin | Freight Operations | Samsung SDS Singapore

1. What does accelerating action for gender equality mean to you?

The issue of gender equality has always been a topic that appears from time to time in social development.

Gender equality does not mean that different genders tend to be the same, but means that both men and women are equal in personality, dignity and value, and have equal rights, opportunities and responsibilities in all aspects.

People of different genders have the same access to and control over social, economic and political resources.

2. What's one small action we can all take to support women in the workplace or community?

By actively listening to women's perspectives, valuing their input, and amplifying their voices, we can help create a more inclusive and supportive    environment where women feel empowered to succeed and thrive.

In the workplace, this can mean ensuring that women have equal opportunities to speak up in meetings, contribute their ideas, and take on leadership roles. It also involves giving credit where it's due and acknowledging the valuable contributions of women in team projects.

In the community, we can support women by actively seeking out and promoting their businesses, initiatives, and achievements. This can involve sharing their work on social media, attending their events, or simply spreading the word about the great things they are doing.

3. What's one piece of advice you would give to help women feel more confident in their workplace?

Building women's workplace confidence requires celebrating achievements, providing constructive feedback, and fostering mentorship.

Creating a diverse and inclusive environment where contributions are valued is also key.

Women should actively communicate their ideas and seek out mentorship and networking opportunities to further boost their confidence and demonstrate their expertise.

Patchara Pipatsrisawat | Forwarding Operations Part Leader | Samsung SDS Thailand

1. What does accelerating action for gender equality mean to you?

For me, it is a powerful call to step up efforts toward achieving gender equality faster and more effectively in addressing gender disparities, whether in education, employment, leadership roles, or social norms.

2. What's one small action we can all take to support women in the workplace or community?

I think we can support women by actively listening and amplifying. On any discussion, it's important to make sure that women's ideas and opinions are heard, valued and recognized.

3. What's one piece of advice you would give to help women feel more confident in their workplace?

Recognizing your value and do your best. When you know your worth and stay committed to doing your best, it not only boosts your own confidence but also earns the respect and recognition of others.

Stella Dang Phuong Ha | Business Development Manager | Samsung SDS Vietnam

1. What does accelerating action for gender equality mean to you?

To me, accelerating action for gender equality means taking deliberate, impactful steps to break down barriers and create more opportunities for women in all areas of life, especially in the workplace. It's about fostering an environment where women have equal access to leadership positions, equal pay and equal recognition for their contributions. By 2025, I believe we can make substantial progress if we continue pushing for fair policies, empowering women to take on leadership roles, and actively removing biases that hinder their success. It's about moving from awareness to tangible, measurable change.

2. What's one small action we can all take to support women in the workplace or community?

One small but powerful action we can all take is to actively listen and support women's ideas and contributions, especially in meetings or group settings. Sometimes, women may hesitate to speak up or may not receive the attention their ideas deserve. By simply acknowledging their contributions, encouraging their participation, and ensuring that their voices are heard, we create a more inclusive and supportive environment. It's a simple yet impactful step toward building a culture where women feel valued and empowered.

3. What's one piece of advice you would give to help women feel more confident in their workplace?

My advice would be to embrace your unique strengths and don't be afraid to advocate for yourself. Confidence comes from recognizing the value you bring to the table. Women often hesitate to own their achievements or take credit for their successes, but acknowledging your own hard work is key. If you feel like your voice isn’t being heard, speak up, and if you need support, don’t hesitate to seek mentors or allies. Confidence is a skill that grows with practice, and by taking ownership of your worth, you inspire others to do the same.

In Conclusion

As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, we recognize that accelerating action for gender equality is not just about awareness. It’s about taking meaningful steps to drive real change. Whether it’s advocating for fair policies, amplifying women’s voices, or fostering confidence in the workplace, each of us has a role to play in creating a more inclusive world. Together, we can ensure that gender equality is not just an aspiration, but a reality.