Mont Rose College staff and students came together on Wednesday, 8 March 2026, to celebrate International Women’s Day with an inspiring event centred on the theme “Give to Gain.” The occasion highlighted the achievements of women, encouraged reflection on progress made, and provided a platform for practical learning, mentorship, and empowerment.
Set within the vibrant Mont Rose College campus in Gants Hill, London, the event combined insightful speeches, interactive discussions, and opportunities for students to connect with leaders and guest speakers, making it both meaningful and memorable.
Bringing the Mont Rose College Community Together
The International Women’s Day event is a key date in the Mont Rose College calendar, fostering inclusivity and collaboration across departments and programmes. Students and staff alike enjoyed the opportunity to engage with each other outside of regular classes, exchange ideas, and celebrate achievements. The day began with a warm opening speech by Principal Ms Sayeda Zain, who encouraged attendees to invest in personal growth while uplifting others. The presence of three distinguished guest speakers—Tinka Denisheva, Fatima Saleh, and Sumera Munir—added immense value, sharing personal journeys, professional insights, and strategies to embody the Give to Gain principle in daily life.
Inspiring Talks and Key Sessions
Guests were treated to a series of engaging, thought-provoking sessions that brought the theme “Give to Gain” to life. Tinka Denisheva delivered an inspiring talk on perseverance, encouraging students to step beyond their comfort zones and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. She shared practical insights on resilience, emphasising that dedication, consistency and self-belief are often the foundations of long-term success. Her message resonated strongly with students who are navigating academic pressures and planning their future careers.
Fatima Saleh focused on the power of community, mentorship and collective progress. She spoke passionately about how supporting other women, sharing knowledge and creating opportunities for peers can generate a ripple effect that strengthens both individuals and society. Her session highlighted the importance of collaboration over competition, reminding students that true leadership involves lifting others as you rise.
Sumera Munir concluded the speaker sessions by exploring the balance between ambition and purpose. She highlighted the role of self-confidence, continuous professional development and personal wellbeing in achieving sustainable success. By encouraging students to align their goals with their values and prioritise self-care, she reinforced the idea that growth is not only professional but personal.
The event also encouraged active participation, with engaging Q&A sessions and open discussions that allowed students to ask questions, share reflections and connect the speakers’ experiences to their own aspirations. This interactive approach ensured that the celebration was not only inspiring but also practical, empowering students to apply the Give to Gain principles in their academic journeys and future careers.
What Students Took Away
The International Women’s Day celebration left students with meaningful insights that extended far beyond the event itself. One of the strongest messages was the importance of empowering others, with students recognising that small acts of encouragement, mentorship, and support can have a lasting, significant impact in both academic and professional environments. They also gained valuable leadership skills, particularly in communication, teamwork and personal development, understanding that effective leaders inspire collaboration and growth. The speakers’ personal journeys encouraged resilience and confidence, motivating students to approach challenges with determination and self-belief. A key takeaway was the concept of purpose-driven ambition: aligning personal values with career goals leads to more fulfilling, sustainable success. Above all, students developed a deeper appreciation for community building, acknowledging that giving time, knowledge and support not only strengthens individuals but also contributes positively to society.
Celebrating Achievements and Looking Ahead
The event concluded with a reflective speech by Vice Principal Miss Renata Kairiene, who thanked the speakers and attendees, and reinforced Mont Rose College’s commitment to fostering an environment where women are supported and empowered year-round. The celebration left a lasting impression on students and staff, with a shared sense of inspiration, motivation, and community spirit.
Mont Rose College continues to host events that promote leadership, learning, and inclusivity. By nurturing talent and encouraging practical skills, the college prepares students for future success while celebrating the achievements of its community members. Mont Rose College looks forward to hosting more events that inspire learning, leadership, and collaboration. Students interested in participating in future workshops, masterclasses, or guest speaker events can enquire here or explore our courses designed to develop professional skills and career-ready confidence.
