Celebrating women who inspire: University of London marks International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day (IWD), celebrated annually on 8 March, is a global occasion to recognise the achievements of women and advocate for gender equality. Since its launch in 1911, IWD has provided a platform to celebrate progress and reflect on the work still needed to create a more inclusive world.

This year’s theme, #AccelerateAction, highlights the urgency of breaking down systemic barriers that continue to hinder women’s advancement in both personal and professional spaces. It serves as a powerful reminder that gender equality requires not just words but swift, decisive steps to drive meaningful change. 

A legacy of breaking barriers 

The University of London has a long and proud history of championing women’s education. In 1868, the University admitted nine women, making it the first institution in Britain to grant women access to higher education. What began as a modest step became a defining moment for the University.  

Celebrating women across the globe 

To mark International Women’s Day, we invited our Recognised Teaching Centres worldwide to nominate women who have made outstanding contributions in their respective fields. Here are the inspiring individuals they chose to recognise: 

Dr Khadija Mushtaq (1974 – 2025) – Former CEO, Roots IVY International College, Pakistan
Nominated by Shaista Owais 

The late Dr Khadija Mushtaq was a visionary leader dedicated to academic excellence and women’s empowerment. Throughout her career, she played a pivotal role in shaping the future of countless students, particularly young women, by fostering an environment of inclusivity, mentorship, and personal growth. Her unwavering dedication to education ensured that women were not only given opportunities but were also encouraged to excel and break barriers in their respective fields.  

Beyond the classroom, she actively led initiatives that provided women with the confidence, skills, and resources to achieve their aspirations. Though she is no longer with us, her legacy continues to inspire and uplift generations to come.  

Patricia McKellar- Dean, Undergraduate Laws, University of London  
Nominated by Farhana Rahman, Bhuiyan Academy, Bangladesh 

Patricia McKellar is a hardworking and highly capable leader, successfully leading and managing the University of London’s Undergraduate Laws programme delivered to 14,000 students in over 80 countries. She is a strong and independent woman who has the capacity to adapt to different cultures as well as managing the significant challenges in delivering legal education in different parts of the world. Her ability to engage with policy makers and professional bodies, ensuring academic excellence while maintaining the highest standards, is truly commendable. She has played a vital role in the relationship with Recognised Teaching Centres and has consistently introduced innovative approaches to learning and enhancing the student experience. A true leader, she stands out as a global representative of the University of London. 

Abiha Haider – Head of Institute, Lord’s College International, Pakistan
Nominated by Aqeela Munir 

Abiha Haider is a trailblazer in the field of sports law. As Pakistan’s first female International Sports Lawyer, she is a University of London LLB and LLM graduate and a former Pakistan footballer with over 12 years of international experience. She has also achieved two Guinness World Records. Abiha is deeply committed to advocating for athletes’ rights and advancing sports law on a global scale. 

Naomi Sharif - Student, London College of Legal Studies (South), Bangladesh 
Nominated by Tahsin Noor 

Naomi Sharif is an accomplished LLB student, achieving distinctions across multiple modules while excelling in moot court competitions. She serves as the COO of Mindspace, a mental health wellness organisation, where she has played a crucial role in expanding counselling and support services. Her leadership in large-scale events and dedication to mental health advocacy reflect the qualities of a modern, ambitious 21st-century woman who is determined to make a meaningful difference. 

Tharushi Jayathunga - Teaching Staff, Royal institute of Colombo, Sri Lanka
Nominated by Janindu Janmika Maddumakulage 

Ms. Tharushi Jayathunga has been truly inspiring in her dedication to going the extra mile in outreach programmes and corporate social responsibility (CSR) projects focused on marginalised women and those in need. She has been instrumental in organising programmes for street-based sex workers, survivors of abuse and transgender women through the National Transgenders Network of Sri Lanka. Additionally, she has facilitated outreach efforts in women's prisons, providing a platform for sharing lived experiences.

As a BSc Psychology graduate, she integrates mental health awareness into all her initiatives, championing inclusivity and collective action to address mental health and pressing social issues. 

Maheen Zeeshan – Teaching Staff, School of International Law, Pakistan
Nominated by Nida Tareen 

A distinguished alumna of the School of International Law (SIL), Maheen Zeeshan has made remarkable strides in the legal profession. She currently serves as a faculty member at SIL while also holding the prestigious role of Judicial Law Clerk at the High Court under Chief Justice Aamer Farooq. In a short time, Maheen has built an impressive career, demonstrating excellence in both academia and the legal field. 

Farhana Rahman - Director, Head of Administration and International Department, Bhuiyan Academy, Bangladesh 
Nominated by Mazharul Hoque Bhuiyan and Barrister Towkir Aziz 

Farhana Rahman is an educator who instils hope and determination in her students, guiding them to succeed with integrity. Throughout her career, including her tenure at Cancer Research UK and Stamford University of Bangladesh, she has demonstrated unwavering commitment to academic excellence. As the youngest Assistant Professor in her department, she trained newly recruited faculty members and played a key role in shaping future educators. At Bhuiyan Academy, she continues to lead with dedication, fostering strong ties with the University of London and ensuring the success of students from all backgrounds.

“It is a pleasure to write about someone so dynamic and devoted, a true leader who never wavers in her commitment to education.” -  Mazharul Hoque Bhuiyan

“She leads from the front, strengthening academic ties and empowering students, making her truly deserving of this recognition on International Women’s Day.” Barrister Towkir Aziz 

Laila Fouad - Student, Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport AASTM, Egypt  
Nominated by Lamiaa EL.Azzazy

Laila Fouad is an ambitious 18-year-old student at the University of London, studying under the academic direction of The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), at Arab Academy Cairo Campuses RTC. Driven by a desire to combat bullying, she initiated a social media campaign that has since evolved into a broader initiative tutoring young students on various motivational topics. Her impactful work has garnered significant attention, leading to TV appearances on MBC Masr and CBC, as well as radio interviews.

Recognised for her leadership and dedication, Laila was selected as a youth representative for UNICEF's Shabab Balad (Generation Unlimited Egypt) initiative in Egypt. She is passionate about advocating for climate change, employment, and mental health awareness. 

Safia Cassim – Country Head Operations, Beaconhouse International College, Pakistan
Nominated by Nawal Amjad

With 25 years of experience in education, Safia Cassim has been instrumental in transforming learning environments from kindergarten to tertiary education. Specialising in capacity-building and leadership, she has mentored educators and administrators, creating dynamic, collaborative spaces that empower both students and staff.

She’s prepared institutions for sustainability and success in competitive markets and satisfied regulators through quality compliance. Even today, she continues to shape the future of education by bridging the gap between academia and industry, preparing the next generation of leaders. 

Sweety Ahmed - Teaching Staff, London College of Legal Studies (South), Bangladesh
Nominated by Tahsin Noor

A barrister, lecturer, and pro bono lawyer, Sweety Ahmed has provided free legal aid to over 150 individuals who were unaware of their rights. She also collaborates with the NGO “Together for Bangladesh”, working to support underprivileged children. Balancing her professional career with motherhood, she is a role model for women in law and social justice, demonstrating that dedication and perseverance can create lasting change. 

Continuing the momentum 

On this International Women’s Day, we celebrate these exceptional women for their contributions and the impact they continue to make in their fields. Their stories serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of leadership, advocacy, and education in driving positive change worldwide.

Happy International Women’s Day! #AccelerateAction