Women’s History Month & IWD2026
Welcome
In the spirit of Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day, let’s reflect, connect, and imagine the possibility of what’s next. Here, you’ll find ways to observe the month, explore women-centered events across the Raleigh–Durham area, and consider how intentional conversations, learning experiences, and shared stories can strengthen our workplaces and communities.
Whether you’re simply exploring, seeking inspiration, or imagining what collaboration with me could look like in the future, you’re in the right place. This is an open invitation—to celebrate women’s history, to recognize the present moment, and to stay connected as we continue shaping what’s next.
Together, Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day invite us to reflect on how far we’ve come—and to recommit to building a future where women everywhere can thrive.
Women’s History Month is observed each March to recognize the contributions, achievements, and resilience of women throughout history. What began as a local celebration in the 1970s grew into a national observance, officially recognized in the United States in 1987. Today, it serves as both a celebration and a call—to remember women whose stories were overlooked and to continue expanding opportunity and equity.
International Women’s Day, celebrated annually on March 8, has roots dating back to the early 1900s and the global movement for women’s rights. It is recognized worldwide as a day to honor women’s social, economic, cultural, and political achievements while advocating for gender equality.
March Talk Topics
Signature Talk
Confidence Code
IWD2026
Give to Gain
More
Innovation thru Inclusion
Even More!
Women Who Lead
You choose
Share your great idea!
Women Centered March Events
Women’s History Month Exhibits & Programs – Museums, cultural organizations, and libraries often host special exhibits, talks, and displays throughout March on women’s contributions and history. Look for announcements from NC Museum of History, local public libraries, and Durham/Chapel Hill institutions.
International Women’s Day Celebrations & Activities – Expect workshops, panels, and community activities globally to celebrate women’s achievements & gender equity.
Date: Sunday, March 8, 2026
Theme: #GivetoGain
Learn more here
Raleigh Women’s History Walking Tour – Explore influential women who shaped Raleigh’s history on a guided walking tour.
Date: Saturday, March 7, 14 or 28, 2026
Where: Exchange Place
227 Fayetteville Street,
Raleigh, NC 27601
Register here
2026 SHE EVOLVED* Women’s Career & Leadership Conference – A full-day conference focused on leadership, career strategy, networking, and professional growth.
Date: Saturday, March 7, 2026 | 9 AM – 3 PM
Where: Brier Creek Country Club, 9400 Club Hill Drive, Raleigh, NC 27617
Register here
National Women Build Week – Women Build offers groups a unique opportunity to gain hands-on construction experience while making a tangible impact—helping families build strength and stability through homeownership.
When: March 4-14
Register your group here
Raleigh’s 4th Annual Women’s Day Expo – Empowering event with women-owned business marketplace, expert panels, networking, and resources for founders and professionals.
Date: Saturday, March 14, 2026 | 11 AM – 4 PM
Where: The McKimmon Conference Center, NC State, 1101 Gorman St., Raleigh, NC 27606
Register here
TEDx Morgan St Women* - Theme: All of Her providing knowledge to women and girls because informed women make culture-shifting choices.
Date: March 21 | TBA
Where: University Club, Durham, NC
Women’s Empowerment 2026 – Expo, Speakers & Concert – A special empowerment expo featuring keynote speakers (including Tina Knowles) and live music performances intertwined with a speaker lineup focused on women’s achievement and community.
Date: Saturday, March 21, 2026
Where: Lenovo Center, 1400 Edwards Mill Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607
Register here
Stay Tuned for More Events.
*Interested in these events, let me know in the form below and I will connect you to the event organizer. Download this tip sheet with other ideas for observing WHM.
Applause.
“Shantell Thomas served as a guest speaker for our Hear our Voices: Mothers of Color Conference. The insight she shared with attendees, from the perspective of her identities as a mother, wife and professional, were both valuable and uplifting. Shantell exudes passion, while also demonstrating what can happen when one lives a purpose-driven life. She is relatable, so having her speak at our conference felt like talking to someone who personally understands who you are. She also understands what it means to create an inclusive environment and to help others find their ‘fit’ in the world. Simply put, she is amazing!”
“Shantell has spoken to the NC Triangle Ellevate group twice now! Once in a facilitated roundtable discussion on Inclusive Communication and Allyship and also in a workshop on finding purpose in your work no matter what you do. Each time our group of women walked away not only inspiration but with actionable takeaways. Shantell is a dream to partner with and her authenticity and warmth comes through both on and off the stage. I highly recommend her as a speaker for any event format you have.”
“Shantell was the perfect asset to our Women Entrepreneurs Inc. Speaker Series. Her keynote on the power of partnerships was timely and engaging, and we received incredible feedback from our attendees. I highly recommend Shantell as a speaker for your next event!”
“I had a wonderful idea for a panel discussion on diversity and needed a moderator. The slide deck was masterfully done and the moderator, Shantell, gave me ideas for the flow of the event as well. It was the best event I have hosted all year. The fees were reasonable and I do not regret hiring her. From the results of the attendee survey when asked should we bring Shantell back the rating was a resounding 9.5 on a scale of 10!”
