Hi everyone!
It’s been a while since I’ve written an update, but I wanted to approach this chapter a little differently. Usually, people look back over the previous 12 months in the New Year because it’s a specific timestamp: a full stop at the end of a long paragraph of a year. However, I prefer to reflect on my achievements when Spring comes into bloom.
In Edinburgh, it’s been lovely to see sunshine breaking through the clouds and smell the cherry blossoms as they dance in the breeze. It being Scotland, we’ve also had chilly days and plenty of rain, but overall, it’s much easier to feel positive when a generous amount of sunlight is streaming through my window.
Before I launch into AW80W updates, I’d like to talk about other writing that I’ve been quietly working on. A few weeks ago, I signed up for the Women Who Write ‘Spring into Summer’ 50-day writing challenge. For a small and accessible fee (which I genuinely appreciate and respect), writers from all disciplines pledge to complete a self-determined goal by the end of the challenge, usually a specific word count.
I pledged to write 20,000 words of my novella and have reached 15,000 with three days to go, so I’m relying on adrenaline and latent motivation to cross the finish line. Wish me luck!
A Year in Numbers
As of a year ago (May 2025), I had published 16 AW80W articles from 4 continents and 13 different countries. Here are some of the highlights:
- Josie’s Story from Colorado, USA
- Lara’s Story from Uzbekistan
- Iola’s Story from France
- Sudha’s Story from India
- Elaheh’s Story from Iran
More generally, in May 2025, I had published 51 articles on Medium, covering a range of topics from periods and perimenopause to the plight of women and girls in Ukraine. Fast forward to May 2026, and there are now 24 AW80W articles in the series, with three new stories coming into fruition (watch this space).
Since my last update, the following articles have been published:
I’m particularly thrilled to say that I’ve extended my reach across South America and Africa to ensure AW80W explores as many perspectives and cultures as possible. I’ve also made some amazing friends along the way.
Also in May 2026, I published my 100th article on Medium, which continued the conversation about issues affecting women. Here are some recent articles that I’m particularly proud of:
- Bleeding Difficult: Period Poverty and the Hidden Labour of Menstruation
- War Stories of Women and Girls in Ukraine: Part Two
- From Bearded Ladies to Derma Planing: Why is Women’s Body Hair so Offensive?
- Misogynists & Perverts & Liars, Oh My: Tales from a Working Men’s Club
- Just Look at the Degree on That Chick
Women and Equality
In March 2026, I had the privilege of attending CSW70 as a digital participant with UN Women UK. Through this opportunity, I gained access to thought-provoking discussions about women’s rights globally. I was particularly moved to write a powerful piece about women in Iran after listening to the impassioned speeches of women who have experienced hardships in their country:
Mothers Dancing on the Graves of Their Children: The Women Leading the Fight for Justice in Iran
I’m grateful to UN Women UK for allowing me to take part in CSW70 under their guidance, and I hope the issues discussed during CSW70 make a positive difference to women and girls around the world.
Next Steps
I love goal setting as it gives me something to aim for and reveals the small, yet significant steps required to reach my desired destination. With this in mind, I will continue building a beautiful network of women whose stories deserve an encouraging platform. The concept of manifestation might be overused lately, but it’s a strong stance to set clear aspirations and intentions, so here are some of mine:
- Publish 40 AW80W articles, meaning I’ve reached the halfway mark.
- Continue diversifying the series by including women from minority and/or vulnerable groups.
- Update this website with a developed mission statement and downloadable resources.
- Build my writing portfolio further by consistently discussing topics affecting women and girls.
- Attend more events like CSW70 to hear about what (extra)ordinary women are doing to promote gender equality.
What are your goals for the next week, month or year?
What’s Your Story?
I’m always searching for new participants and would love to hear from any women (in the most inclusive sense) who’d like to contribute.
If you’re worried your life isn’t ‘interesting’ enough, please dismiss that thought immediately. So far in this project, I’ve heard things like ‘But my life isn’t that exciting’ or ‘I don’t know if you’d find anything interesting about me’ several times, and it’s simply not true. No matter your background, I guarantee there are thought-provoking and fascinating elements ready to take shape if you’re willing to share them.
I can’t wait to hear from you soon!
Email me at AW80W.project@gmail.com
Take care,
Rachel : )
