by Eleni Yianas, VP Marketing, Duravant

March 8th is International Women’s Day! Today we celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.  Today is all about unity, celebration, reflection, advocacy and action – both globally and at a local level.

This day has been honored for over a century!

International Women’s Day has been observed since the early 1900’s, at a time when the industrialized world was seeing population growth and more women entering the workforce. The US and countries across Europe honored this day by campaigning for women’s rights to work, vote, be trained, to hold public office and end discrimination. In 1975, International Women's Day was celebrated for the first time by the United Nations and in 1977, the UN Generall Assembly invited member states to proclaim March 8th as the UN Day for women’s rights and world peace.   Today, International Women’s Day has significant meaning for women in developed and developing countries alike.  It’s values and goals continue to remain true, aiming to bring attention to women’s accomplishments and obstacles around the world.

This day is about support, encouragement and empowerment – and that’s what’s at the core of the PPWLN!

I connected with the Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network before it was the PPWLN.  In 2014, I attended my very first Pack Expo show.  At this massive industry event that draws in over 50,000 attendees and 2500 exhibitors to Chicago, I joined a small group of women for a PMMI-sponsored breakfast.  (We probably filled up 3, maybe 4 banquet tables.) During the breakfast, I turned to one of my industry colleagues to reflect upon my inaugural exposure to the show, and asked, “Where are all the women?”

We’re here! Yes, we’re definitely here.

Led by PMMI, a small group of women (many who were at that first breakfast in 2014) got together to discuss creating a forum that connects women in our industry. Women from PMMI member companies and CPGs met at PMMI’s headquarters in Virginia to brainstorm how to attract, retain and advance women in the packaging and processing industry. This Executive Council created the mission and vision of the network.  They agreed that through leadership development, networking events, and mentorship, PPWLN’s purpose is to bring both established leaders and young professionals together to expand the presence and influence of women in the industry.

And we’re connecting!

The first networking event was held in Chicago at the 2016 Pack Expo show with a breakfast meeting that featured a keynote speaker sharing her insights on the role of women in manufacturing and a panel discussion with various leaders from our industry.  This was truly a groundbreaking event because more than 600 women attended the breakfast!  It was a full house! Women wanted to connect!

Since 2016, the Packaging and Processing Women’s Leadership Network has continued to host annual networking events and regional meetings. The PPWNL has connected us to influential industry executives and thought leaders who have shared insights about leading change, self-empowerment, career advancement, and how companies in our industry are empowering women.  Through the PPWLN Facebook and LinkedIn groups, they’ve created a place where women can share personal experiences, seek advice, and learn from one another.  Simply, it’s become a powerful forum and resource for women in our industry.

Happy International Women’s Day, and thanks to PPWLN for uniting and inspiring women in Packaging and Processing!