The Independent Marks International Women’s Day by Unveiling The Influence List 2024 and Raising Money for Refuge

This International Women's Day, The Independent has compiled Independent Women: The Influence List 2024 featuring the 50 most influential women of the moment.

To mark the occasion, renowned photographer Sane Seven has taken portraits of 10 of the incredible women on the list to raise money and awareness for the charity Refuge. We're so exited to announce that, as of today these portraits, along with an exclusive one-off photographic portrait by Tracey Emin, will be on display at Outernet London.

The exhibition will be in rotation throughout March, and then the portraits will be sold in aid of Refuge. In the meantime, you can also donate to Refuge and help women and children overcome the physical, emotional, financial and logistical impacts of abuse to rebuild their lives — free from fear.

Launching at 10:30am on Friday 8th, then playing throughout the month.
- Completely free, no booking needed
- Check our app or What’s On listings for timings

In alphabetical order, the 10 women photographed are:

• Amy Dowden — dancer and presenter

• Anna Whitehouse — journalist, author, broadcaster and campaigner

• Carol Vorderman — broadcaster, author and TV presenter

• Baroness Floella Benjamin OM DBE — politician, author, presenter, campaigner and actor 

• Jameela Jamil — actor, presenter, writer and activist

• Kate Garraway MBE — broadcaster and journalist

• Maggie Alphonsi MBE — Rugby World Cup winner, broadcaster and speaker

• The Rt Hon Penny Mordaunt MP —  politician

• Rosie Jones — comedian, writer and actor

• Sara Pascoe — comedian and author

Geordie Greig, Editor-In-Chief, The Independent, said:

“It is so right to have an International Women’s Day to celebrate, campaign for and enhance opportunity for half the population of the planet. Women are too often held back.  A lot has been achieved, but there is more to do.  Lots more. The Independent has a proud history of highlighting causes for – and by – women. This will never stop. Refuge is a wonderful example of philanthropy, aiding women in need – and we are proud to support them.”

Abigail Ampofo, Interim CEO, Refuge, said:

“Refuge is proud to continue partnering with The Independent this International Women’s Day. The decision to spotlight these extraordinary women at Outernet in the centre of London serves as a powerful reminder of women’s strength and resilience in the face of persisting patriarchal attitudes. As the country’s largest single provider of specialist domestic abuse services, we witness immense acts of strength and bravery by the women we support daily. Sadly, we know that Refuge’s services are a lifeline to thousands of women and their children throughout the country, given the prevailing epidemic of violence against women and girls. Currently, one in four women will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime, and two women a week are killed by a current or former partner.

Jessica Dracup-Holland, CMO at Outernet London, said:

"As we celebrate International Women's Day, Outernet is proud to announce our partnership with The Independent; two major media brands uniting to amplify the voices and stories of women who have made incredible impact in the world. Through this collaboration, we shine a spotlight on the remarkable achievements of prominent women featured in The Independent's IWD list, using exclusively shot photography to create an inspiring new exhibition. Together, we not only celebrate progress but also drive meaningful change as this project supports the important work of Refuge. This partnership underscores our commitment to diversity, equality, and the empowerment of women everywhere."

Sane Seven, photographer, said:

“Each photo I take is about digging deeper into the real stories of women, highlighting their increasing influence in our evolving society. Collaborating with The Independent and Refuge, we're sparking real talk about fairness and freedom, and showing the world what it looks like when women are truly free to be themselves.”