06.03.2026: Ahead of International Women’s Day on Sunday, March 8, UK Music Head of Diversity Eunice Obianagha reflects on this year’s theme of ‘Give to Gain’ and the power of advocating for others.

“A few weeks ago, I spoke at the Night Time Economy Summit during the women’s empowerment session. I shared some moments from early in my career where I’d stood my ground while managing live events, de-escalating tense situations, and holding responsibility without always having formal authority. At the time, I was simply doing the work in front of me, but in hindsight these moments were early exercises in influence – learning how authority is perceived, negotiated, and enacted.

“I was touched that a number of women told me afterwards that the keynote resonated with them because it felt familiar. At the same time, it made them notice something they hadn’t thought about before: the subtle ways influence is exercised and recognised, how small decisions can have lasting impact and how they were informally making a difference.

“This year’s International Women’s Day theme, ‘Give to Gain’, provides an opportunity to extend that conversation.

“Structural and cultural barriers are real, and many opportunities in our industry are still shaped through informal networks. That means choosing to advocate for others will almost always make a difference.

“This context matters, as women in the industry often face bias and additional expectations. Yet many continue to step in, mentor others, and shape opportunities,  often without formal recognition.

“Some of the most significant progressions in my own career came because someone chose to do exactly that. They recommended me. They introduced me. They ensured I was credited properly for work delivered. Those actions were not part of formal schemes; they were deliberate decisions to use influence constructively.

“When we recommend capable women for governance roles, senior positions, or their first entry jobs, it broadens who is seen as credible. When credit is attributed accurately, it strengthens professional standing. When someone advocates in a room where another person is absent, it can directly create opportunities. Individually, these decisions may appear small. However, consistently and collectively, they shape the structure and culture of the industry.

“I like to think of these acts as everyday ‘small power moves’. A recommendation, a credit, an advocacy moment. Small actions, but with ripple effects that strengthen networks, expand access, and build more inclusive environments.

“That is where ‘Give to Gain’ becomes practical and shakes the room.

“Another way to ‘Give to Gain’ is by supporting the women and organisations already shaping a more inclusive industry. Platforms like Donne, The F-List, Girls I Rate, Keychange, Saffron, Seat At The Table, She.Said.So, The Cat’s Mother, and countless quiet power movers are moving influence, often without fanfare. Shouting about their work is a gain for our industry.

“Structural reform remains critical. Data, accountability, and transparent processes are essential. However, culture is also built through behaviour.

“International Women’s Day is a moment to reflect on the impact of advocacy and recognition but these actions matter every day. Consider who you’ve seen making a difference, share names in the comments, tag women and organisations you admire, or simply make a note to lift someone up in your next meeting. Small acts of recognition move influence forward, together – that’s our power.”