Smart Works Leeds has officially launched its International Women’s Day 2026 campaign with an event at Elland Road, bringing together celebrities, local businesses and supporters to mark the start of its biggest campaign to date.

The launch brought together high-profile names including ambassador and Coronation Street star Natalie Anderson, The Apprentice winner Rachel Woolford, Lindsey Burrow and broadcaster Christine Talbot, alongside Yorkshire businesses and community partners, all keen to champion Smart Works Leeds’ mission and demonstrate early backing for the campaign.

Smart Work Leeds International Women’s Day campaign is a month-long programme that will deliver a series of inspiring events across Yorkshire, designed to celebrate women, raise vital funds and spotlight the charity’s life-changing employment services.

Smart Works Leeds Chair, Tracy Fletcher, said: “The turnout at our launch event has been incredibly encouraging and shows just how much support there is across Yorkshire for the work we do. It was fantastic to see so many businesses, partners and familiar faces come together to help us kick off what will be our biggest International Women’s Day campaign yet.

The International Women’s Day 2026 campaign will be delivered throughout March, with a diverse programme of events planned across the region, supported by headline sponsor Leeds first direct bank arena, media partner Heart Yorkshire and PR and events specialist Pink Gorilla Hairy Lemon.

Businesses, individuals and supporters are encouraged to get involved ahead of March, whether by attending events, partnering with the campaign or making a donation to support Smart Works Leeds’ employment services.

Tracy added: “International Women’s Day is a moment to recognise the resilience, talent and ambition of women everywhere. Our 2026 programme is designed to inspire, connect and empower while raising crucial funds to help even more women transform their lives through employment.

“With the main programme of events still to come, there is plenty of opportunity for people to get involved, support the campaign and help us make a real difference to women’s lives.”

Throughout the month audiences can look forward to a breakfast panel at First Direct Arena, a spectacular charity abseil at the Cow and Calf in Ilkley, a fashion sale at Bradford’s Darley Street Market, and a networking event at Yorkshire Building Society.

These core events will be supported by a vibrant programme of fringe activities delivered with partners from across the region, including conferences, sports tournaments, networking events and more. 

Leeds first direct bank arena head of premium sales, Lisa Turton, said: We are incredibly proud to support Smart Works Leeds’ International Women’s Day campaign. As a major Yorkshire venue, we believe strongly in using our platform to champion equality, opportunity and positive social impact. 

“This programme brings together empowerment, community and action, everything International Women’s Day stands for and we’re delighted to be part of it.” 

The campaign kicks off on 2 March with members of the public, businesses and supporters encouraged to join, donate or take part. 

Tickets, registrations and full event details are available here.