8 Women Who Changed the World & the Flowers That Represent Them

International Women’s Day is about recognising the impact women have had, and continue to have, on our lives and our society. Here are eight inspiring women and the flowers that symbolise their legacy:

Marie Curie was a pioneering scientist and the first woman to win a Nobel Prize, and to this day the only person to have won Nobel Prizes in two different scientific fields (Physics and Chemistry). Her research on radioactivity laid the foundation for modern medicine and cancer treatments.

Why the lily? White lilies symbolise integrity, wisdom and quiet strength. Qualities that reflect Curie’s groundbreaking yet humble legacy.

Frida Kahlo used art to tell deeply personal stories about identity, pain, femininity and resilience. At a time when women artists were often overlooked, she created a unique visual language that continues to influence culture, fashion and feminism today.

Why the sunflower? Sunflowers represent boldness, creativity and standing tall in your own truth, just like Frida did.

Rosa Parks became a global symbol of the civil rights movement when she refused to give up her seat on a segregated bus in 1955. Her quiet act of resistance helped ignite the Montgomery Bus Boycott and became a turning point in the fight against racial segregation in the United States.

Why the magnolia? Magnolias stand for dignity, strength and perseverance. Values Rosa Parks embodied through peaceful resistance.

Malala Yousafzai became an international advocate for girls’ education after surviving an attack by the Taliban for speaking out about the right to go to school. She went on to become the youngest-ever Nobel Peace Prize laureate and continues to campaign for equal access to education worldwide.

Why the lotus? The lotus symbolises hope and resilience. Blooming even in the most difficult conditions.

Jane Goodall transformed our understanding of animals and nature through her research on chimpanzees, proving that humans are not the only species to use tools or form emotional bonds. Her work changed the way we think about conservation, animal welfare and our relationship with the natural world.

Why the wildflower? Wildflowers symbolise harmony with nature, gentleness and quiet impact. A reflection of Goodall’s lifelong dedication to the planet.

Ada Lovelace is considered the world’s first computer programmer. Long before modern computers existed, she envisioned how machines could go beyond calculations and be used creatively. A vision that laid the groundwork for today’s digital world.

Why the iris? Irises represent wisdom, vision and imagination, perfectly matching Lovelace’s forward-thinking mind.

Serena Williams redefined women’s tennis with her power, resilience and record-breaking career. Beyond sport, she has become a role model for self-belief, representation and equality in industries where women, especially those of colour, are still underrepresented.

Why the gerbera? Gerberas symbolise confidence, energy and positivity. The same qualities Serena brings both on and off the court.

Emmeline Pankhurst was a leading figure in the British suffragette movement and played a key role in securing women’s right to vote in the UK. Her activism helped change laws and social norms, shaping modern democracy.

Why the purple rose? Purple has long been associated with dignity and justice. Values at the heart of the suffragette movement.