How Team Panasonic’s Athletes Empower Change on IWD

Celebrating International Women’s Day with Team Panasonic Champions

Wiesbaden, Germany – Every March 8, International Women’s Day (IWD) invites the world to spotlight achievements, challenge inequality, and push forward the conversation on gender parity. At Panasonic, this occasion is more than symbolic it’s a direct reflection of the company’s long-standing commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI). With inclusivity woven into its Group-wide Basic Business Philosophy, Panasonic empowers its global teams to thrive, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to society.

This year, Panasonic shined a light on two powerful voices from its athletic ambassador program, Team Panasonic Hannah Mills, Olympic sailor and sustainability advocate, and Hannah Cockroft, decorated Paralympian and vocal disability rights campaigner. Their insights offer a deeply personal look at the significance of IWD, the ongoing challenges faced by women in sport, and the broader intersection between gender equality, sustainability, and media representation.

What Does International Women’s Day Represent?

For both Hannahs, International Women’s Day is more than just a date on the calendar.

• “I love learning about women who’ve done incredible things,” shared Hannah Mills. “IWD gives their stories the platform they deserve. It’s an opportunity to recognize and amplify those achievements across every field.”

 Hannah Cockroft added: “It’s a vital moment to talk about inclusivity. Life moves fast, and we often ignore bigger social issues. IWD gives us space to think and act on topics that impact millions. It’s not just about being a woman it’s about fairness, access, and respect for all.”

 Read more about International Women's Day and its global impact.

Challenges Faced by Women in Sports

Despite monumental progress in women’s sports, systemic issues still persist from pay gaps to media bias, and from limited visibility to lack of grassroots support.

Hannah Mills pointed out that many girls drop out of sports early due to societal pressures and lack of support:
 “We need better environments in schools and clubs where girls feel welcome and seen. The perception that men’s sports are more important still lingers and that mindset needs changing.”

Hannah Cockroft shared a strikingly personal experience:
 “After winning gold at the London 2012 Paralympics, the headlines were more about my acne than my medals. That hurt. The internet can be brutal, especially to women. My advice? Don’t let it define you. Listen to those you trust. The rest is just noise.”

 Explore gender bias in sports media to understand how it affects female athletes globally.

Making Sports More Inclusive

Inclusivity in sport starts with who gets to participate and just as crucially, who gets seen.

Cockroft emphasized the media’s role in representation:
 “We saw amazing coverage for events like the Women’s Football World Cup and the Paralympics but it dropped off afterward. Consistent media attention changes minds and opens doors.”

The call here is simple: show more women’s sports and disabled athletes on mainstream platforms. Because without visibility, there’s no inspiration.

 Learn how inclusive sports coverage can change lives and break stereotypes.

Where Sustainability Meets Equality

Gender equality and climate action go hand in hand, both forming essential pillars of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

As Hannah Mills, now an environmental advocate, explained:
 “Sustainability and IWD are directly linked. We can’t achieve global goals without diverse perspectives at the table. More women in leadership means better outcomes for the planet.”

Hannah Cockroft added:
 “It’s about creating equal opportunities for people and the planet. We need collective support systems if we want a truly thriving future.”

 Read about the UN's SDG Goal 5: Gender Equality and how it underpins global development.

Women Who Paved the Way

Role models play a crucial role in shaping confidence and determination especially during tough times.

Hannah Mills found her inspiration in Serena Williams, calling her “a warrior resilient, unstoppable, and bold.”

Hannah Cockroft highlighted her connection with Chantal Petitclerc, a fellow Paralympian:
 “She mentored me at my first Games, and that support made all the difference. Now, I try to pass that on to the next generation.”

 Check out Serena Williams’ legacy and Chantal Petitclerc’s Paralympic journey for more inspiration.

Final Thoughts

Panasonic’s conversation with these two extraordinary women underscores a powerful truth: sport can be a force for equality, resilience, and unity.

Whether it's pushing for better representation, mentoring the next generation, or tackling climate change, Hannah Mills and Hannah Cockroft embody the spirit of International Women’s Day not just as athletes, but as leaders, advocates, and changemakers.

As we reflect on their words, the message is clear: equity begins with visibility, and progress begins with action.

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