VALIDATE Celebrates International Women's Day 2026
Observed every year on 8 March, International Women’s Day is a global celebration of women’s achievements, as well as a call to action for greater gender equality. Alongside many organisations around the world, VALIDATE uses the day to recognise and celebrate the contributions of women working across our global research community.
This year, two members of our Network leadership — Luciana Balboa, Co-Chair of the LATAM Regional Sub-Committee, and Lydia Mosi, Chair of the Africa Regional Sub-Committee — share their reflections on their journeys as women in science.
In her piece, Professor Lydia Mosi reflects on her experience as an African woman scientist working on neglected tropical skin diseases, highlighting both the structural challenges facing women in research and the importance of leadership, mentorship, and equitable support in shaping the future of science.
Luciana Balboa offers a personal account of her career in infectious disease research in Argentina, exploring the role of mentorship, resilience, and solidarity in sustaining scientific careers — particularly in environments where resources are limited and barriers persist.
Together, their stories highlight the importance of community, opportunity, and collective support in enabling women to thrive and lead in science.
Join VALIDATE on Twitter/X and LinkedIn, and join us in celebrating women in science.
Published 8 March 2026
