Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

At the University of Twente, we proudly embrace the spirit of International Women's Day, a global celebration that transcends boundaries and recognises the vital contributions of women worldwide. This day is not only about celebrating women. It is about celebrating individuality, challenging stereotypes, and recognising the importance of diversity in shaping our shared and impactful future.  

Like last year, various groups across our university have joined forces to create a meaningful programme that reflects the strength that comes from inclusion. International Women's Day is both a celebration and a call to action. It reminds us that everyone, regardless of gender, plays a role in advanding equal opportunities. It is an opportunity to reflect on the progress made, acknowledge the challenges that remain, and continue building a culture where differences are valued and everyone feels that they are respected and belong.

On March 5, we will host a series of engaging events and experiences on campus (O&O square and Waaier). Together, we aim to create space for diverse voices and perspectives, highlighting the many roles, contributions, and lived experiences of women and ofcourse opening the conversation to our entire community.

On March 8, the official International Women’s Day, we will join the Women’s March in Enschede, organised by several women’s organisations in and around the city. By participating, we emphasise the importance of collaboration both within and beyond our university.

We invite everyone to take part. Explore the activities below and sign up for the lecture if you plan to attend. Let’s celebrate, reflect, and move forward -together.

Let’s come together – 3 days before International Women’s Day – to reflect on gender equity at our university and to take our collective responsibility in shaping UT’s more inclusive future.

12:30 – 13:30 | O&O Square

Let’s engage! with student-led initiatives and interactive activities. Create posters for the Women’s March on 8 March in Enschede city center, share your experiences and explore how civic engagement connects to academic work.

14:00 – 15:30 | Waaier 2

Let’s reflect! An interactive session with inspiring keynotes by Miriam Iliohan (Design Lab) and Mariëlle Winkler (SP) reflecting on current UT developments, gender equity, and the role of leadership. Please sign up here to join!

Miriam Iliohan - Empowerment Without Borders: How Global Experiences and Young Women Inspired DesignLab to Build Bridges and Foster Inclusion

What happens when you combine the lessons of living and studying abroad with the inspiration of four powerful young women? You get a blueprint for empowerment that transcends borders and disciplines. In this talk, Miriam Iliohan, co-founder and manager of DesignLab at the University of Twente, shares her journey of turning global experiences and personal inspiration into a space where co-creation thrives and all students are empowered to lead.
From the challenges of working across cultures to the pivotal moments that shaped DesignLab. Miriam will highlight the importance of inclusivity, collaboration, and building bridges, not just within UT, but across the world. Join her to discover how DesignLab is fostering a culture of empowerment and how you can contribute to shaping a more inclusive future for women in innovation.
With this she will share stories from her time abroad, illustrating how cultural exchange and collaboration can drive innovation and empowerment. Learn how four young women inspired her to create a space where diversity is celebrated, voices are amplified, and bridges are built across disciplines and cultures.

15:30 – 16:00 | Foyer Waaier

Let’s Celebrate! Informal closing and networking.

WOMEN'S DAY MARCH - 8th of March - 16:00

On International Women’s Day, March 8th, people from all walks of life will come together to celebrate women and create unison in the fight for gender equality and justice! We want to shed light on the needs of different women and their unique yet reocurring fight against violence, prejudice and discrimination. We want to give a voice to the women who got theirs taken away. Let’s unite to celebrate women and empower our generation towards a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

START: Enschede, train station

We are taking the streets once again.

We invite everyone to participate in this celebration of diversity, where differences are not just acknowledged but celebrated. Together, let us contribute to a university community that values and respects everyone for who they are.  

Happy International Women's Day! 

The joint celebration of International Women’s Day at University of Twente is organized by DE&I at UT, Women's Academic Network Twente (WANT), OBP Vrouwennetwerk, EO4all, EQUITY (PE-NUT), Amnesty Utwente and Ambitious Women UT.