Every year on 8 March, the world marks International Women’s Day – a global celebration of women’s social, cultural, economic, and political achievements, as well as a call to action for greater gender equality. The day has been marked for more than a century, since the first gathering in 1911, and today it continues to inspire communities everywhere to recognise the contributions women make to society. (International Women's Day)
For us in British Naturism, it’s also a moment to pause and reflect on the women who help make our organisation and community thrive.
The Women Who Keep Things Moving
Like many volunteer-led communities, British Naturism runs on dedication. While the public often sees events, campaigns and magazine features, much of the work happens quietly in the background with people like our General Secretary Tracey keeping us all on the straight and narrow!
Across the organisation, women contribute in countless ways, serving on committees, coordinating events, supporting newcomers, managing communications, moderating online spaces, and helping to ensure that naturism remains welcoming, inclusive and safe for everyone.
These contributions are not always visible, but they are essential. Without them, the sense of community that defines naturism simply wouldn’t exist.
Community Builders
One of the most powerful aspects of naturism is its community spirit. Women play a central role in nurturing that spirit.
From organising swims, gatherings and regional events, to supporting first-time visitors who may feel nervous about attending their first naturist activity, women in the community often act as the friendly faces that help people feel at ease.
Their ability to build connections, encourage participation and foster inclusivity helps ensure that naturism is open to people from all walks of life.
Women in Focus
A series led by our Women’s Officer, Helen Berriman, through interviews with naturist women from the UK and around the world, the series shares personal stories about how women discovered naturism, the challenges they’ve faced, and the confidence and wellbeing they’ve gained from living clothes-free. By amplifying these diverse voices, from healthcare professionals and campaigners to long-standing naturists and newcomers, the project celebrates the many different experiences of women in naturism and helps encourage others to explore the lifestyle in a supportive and empowering environment.
Advocates for Inclusivity
International Women’s Day is also about raising awareness of equality and celebrating progress while recognising there is still work to do.
Within naturism, women have long been advocates for creating spaces where everyone feels respected and valued. Many help shape conversations around body confidence, diversity and representation — topics that are central to the ethos of naturism itself. Their perspectives help guide the organisation toward a more balanced and welcoming future.
A Community Effort
One of the key ideas behind International Women’s Day is that progress happens through collective effort. As feminist activist Gloria Steinem once said, the struggle for equality belongs to “the collective efforts of all who care about human rights.” (International Women's Day)
That sentiment resonates strongly within naturism. British Naturism is not built by one person or one group – it is built by a community, working together. And all women are an integral part of that story.
This International Women’s Day, we want to say thank you to the women who support, lead, organise, encourage and inspire within British Naturism.
Whether you’re coordinating an event, welcoming a newcomer, volunteering at a festival, or simply helping create a friendly and respectful atmosphere, your contribution matters.
Naturism is about authenticity, confidence and acceptance. Thanks to the women in our community, those values continue to flourish.
Happy International Women’s Day.
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