In recent decades, the campaign for women's equality has reached new ground - not just in western societies, but across the world. Many of these achievements have been secured through the hard work of activists and dedicated organizations, and through people who have seen that there are problems for women which still need fixing.
Women for Women International is one such organization. Since 1993, the charity has worked with women survivors of war to help them "rebuild their lives and choose their own futures". In the 25 years that they have been up and running, they've managed to help more than 462,000 women in eight different countries - all of which have been affected by conflict.
Anyone can help support Women for Women International in their endeavor to provide support for those in need, but here are six celebrities who have given their reasons for stepping up to the cause:
1. Dame Helen Mirren
As well as being a Hollywood legend, Dame Helen Mirren is also a firm supporter of women's equality.
"Women bear the brunt of modern conflict. Many experience torture, brutality and horrific sexual violence. Their basic rights, freedoms and dignity are often targeted as a tactic of war. With the rise of brutal armed conflicts and extremism we are currently seeing unprecedented levels of violence against women, which means there has never been a greater need for the work of Women for Women International to support women survivors.
"Women for Women International has demonstrated over the past 20 years that when given the tools, resources and knowledge to access livelihoods and protect their rights, women can transform their families, communities – and ultimately help build more stable nations.
"I’m delighted to be able to lend my support, and hope to help Women for Women International reach many more women in need around the world."
2. Sophie Turner
Most of us will recognize Sophie as Sansa Stark on Game of Thrones, but she's just as much of a powerful and inspiring figure in real life.
"I met so many incredible women on this trip [to visit Women for Women International in Rwanda]. To name a few; Grace, a single mother of five who, through the saving skills she learnt at the Women’s Opportunity Centre, has been able to provide for her kids and buy two cows. There was also Judith, a women who runs her own textiles business making clothes and also teaching other women the same skills that she had developed. The women I met in Rwanda have inspired me in so many ways."
3. Nadja Swarovski
As the Chair of the Swarovski Foundation's Board of Directors and a Member of the Swarovski Executive Board, Nadja knows what it feels like to be an empowered woman, and she wants that feeling for everyone.
"Women for Women International's simple and powerful mission offers us an insight into the worst humanity has to offer and the best humanity has to offer – and is an inspiration to us all."
4. June Sarpong
British TV personality and presenter June Sarpong has had first-hand experience with the work that Women for Women International does, and she's proud to have been a part of it.
"It is a privilege for me to work with Women for Women International. The organisation is an absolute powerhouse and the work it does in war-torn countries is fantastic and incredibly important."
5. Arizona Muse
As a former Vogue cover girl and successful businesswoman, Arizona knows the importance of helping other women who are less privileged.
"I support Women for Women International because it’s a fantastic charity, whose focus is supporting other women all over the world."
6. Charlotte Tilbury
Charlotte Tilbury has made a name for herself through her makeup, and now she wants to use her influence to help others.
"When I first sat down with the charity and heard the many stories of the women in the programme, I was shocked, devastated and determined to do something to make a real difference."
If you wanted to join these celebrities in supporting Women for Women International, there's a really easy way you can take part.
Using this link, you can write a short #MessageToMySister - just a few words to show your support for women who are still living in dangerous and underprivileged conditions. It might seem like something small, but it will feel like a huge act of kindness to someone who really needs it.
