Muse Encounters: International Women’s Day Edition
As we celebrate International Women's Day this year, we are inspired by the theme, “Accelerate Action.” This powerful message emphasises the urgency and importance of accelerating efforts to eliminate systemic barriers and biases that impede women’s equality.
At VAHY, as a female-founded and led business, we are proud to work alongside so many incredible women who contribute to our success and progress every day. We are deeply committed to promoting gender equality, now and into the future.
In honor of IWD, we’re thrilled to interview some of our muses — extraordinary women who are making an impact in their fields. Through these interviews, we’ll dive into what International Women’s Day means to them, how they’ve seen change unfold, and how they’re continuing to push boundaries and create lasting change.
Karin Bochnik
@karinbochnik_id
ID, Interior Direction Studio
“For me, International Women's Day is a powerful reminder of the progress we’ve made and the work still ahead. It’s a moment to celebrate the inspiring women around me. As a full-time working mum running a design studio, I am constantly reminded that nurturing my wellbeing is just as important as nurturing my business. Progress isn’t about competing for equality—it’s about finding a balance that works for us as females, a delicate equilibrium between career ambitions and family time that serves as a daily act of self-care.”
"International Women’s Day is a celebration of the strength, resilience, and limitless potential of women everywhere. True strength isn’t just physical—it’s the mindset that allows us to evolve, push boundaries, and support each other in pursuit of our goals. Women can be both tender and fierce, embracing compassion while stepping into their power. When women come together, we cultivate confidence, create opportunities, and redefine what’s possible for the women of the future."
“The theme of International Women’s Day 2025 resonates strongly with my role in architecture as it embodies the urgency of moving beyond goals and ideas, and turning them into tangible, impactful solutions.
For me, ‘Accelerate Action’ speaks to the importance of continuously pushing forward, testing new ideas, and working collaboratively. In a field where historically, women have been underrepresented, building and maintaining self-assurance as a woman has been my strongest tool. By trusting in my abilities and expertise, I actively work towards shifting the narrative and challenging stereotypes.”
Nat Irvine
@nat.irvine
Chief Sales & Marketing at RedZed, Global Female Private Banker of the Year 2023 & 2024
“International Women’s Day is a powerful reminder of the roles we play in shaping a future where kindness, inclusion, and happiness are the norm—so the next generation doesn’t face the challenges we have.
Happy International Women’s Day to my incredible tribe of women who inspire me every day, and to the amazing men who champion me, make space at the table, and cheer me on. You all rock!”
Adele Vine
@just__adele
Founder and Director, Just Adele Design Studio
“International Women's Day is a day to champion and uplift women, to reflect on their achievements, and to honour their contributions in shaping our lives and communities. It’s an opportunity to spark meaningful conversations about equality, celebrate resilience, and recognise the strength and creativity that women bring to the world.
As someone working in a male-dominated field, I’m proud to connect, collaborate, and be inspired by so many incredible women. This day reminds me that empowering women unlocks the full potential of our communities, industries, and society, driving positive change for everyone."